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Ogiso, Benin’s “rulers of the sky”, begin 900 and end 1170 AD
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Benin’s brass casters learn trade from an Ife master
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The Benin Empire originated in 1440
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Oba Ewuare or “Ewuare the Great” came into power. Turned the city-state into Benin empire. He also made the primogeniture and created new types of chiefs, such as the specialized palace chiefs and town chiefs .
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His son, Ozula the Conqueror came into power after Oba Euware died of old age.
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Benin prevented the export of slaves in 1807, preventing further depletion of the population.
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The Portugese arrived in Benin, bringing slaves and goods to trade with the Benin Empire and other people. The Benin did not have a written language until then.
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Egisie forged a good relationship with the Portuguese. They primarily tradedpepper, ivory, palm oil and clothing.
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The English built a fort at Ouidah, also known as Whydah.
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The Benin Empire ceases to be an empire.
