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Jan 1, 1170
End of the Ogiso
Ogiso, Benin’s “rulers of the sky”, begin 900 and end 1170 AD -
Jan 1, 1400
Brass Casters Learn Trade
Benin’s brass casters learn trade from an Ife master -
Jan 1, 1440
Beginning of Benin Empire
The Benin Empire originated in 1440 -
Jan 1, 1440
Oba Ewuare Came Into Power
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 . -
Apr 1, 1486
Oba Euware Dies, Ozula the Conqueror comes into power
His son, Ozula the Conqueror came into power after Oba Euware died of old age. -
Period: Apr 1, 1486 to
Slave Trade
Benin prevented the export of slaves in 1807, preventing further depletion of the population. -
Mar 29, 1489
Portugese Arive
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. -
Period: Apr 1, 1504 to Apr 1, 1550
Egisie's Reign over Benin Empire
Egisie forged a good relationship with the Portuguese. They primarily tradedpepper, ivory, palm oil and clothing. -
English Fort
The English built a fort at Ouidah, also known as Whydah. -
End of the Benin Empire
The Benin Empire ceases to be an empire.
