Podcasts · The History of Nigeria: Kingdoms, Colonies, and Africa's Giant — Fexingo History
The Dahomey Amazons: Warrior Women of West Africa
· 9:46 · S6 E261
Episode The Dahomey Amazons: Warrior Women of West Africa
We step away from the horse lords of Oyo and the bronze casters of Benin to explore one of the most misunderstood military units in African history. This episode examines the Agojie, the elite all-female regiments of the Kingdom of Dahomey, active from the early 17th century until their defeat by French forces in 1894. We look past the colonial myths and Victorian sensationalism to understand who these women were, how they trained, and what drove them to fight. Lucas and Luna discuss the political structure of Abomey, the role of Queen Hangbe, and the complex legacy of the kingdom’s involvement in the Atlantic slave trade. You will hear about specific battles like Ouidah and the final stand at Abomey, alongside the personal stories of warriors who chose a life of arms over traditional domestic roles. This is a grounded look at agency, power, and survival in pre-colonial West Africa.
#Dahomey #Agojie #WestAfrica #QueenHangbe #Abomey #BeninEmpire #SlaveryHistory #FrenchColonialism #FemaleWarriors #Ouidah #KingGezo #KingGlele #19thCenturyAfrica #MilitaryHistory #PreColonialStates #AtlanticTrade #FexingoHistory #History
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