The Kingdom of Benin and the Legacy of British Colonisation

The Kingdom of Benin was a powerful West African state located near the Niger River, in what is now Nigeria. The Portuguese were the first Europeans to learn about Benin through their trade networks, especially as they exchanged goods with local people. Through these contacts, other Europeans also became aware of Benin and its unique culture.

European Contact and the Slave Trade

There was direct contact between the people of Benin and Europeans during the period of the transatlantic slave trade. As European interest grew, they became curious about Benin's customs and artworks. This eventually led to British imperial forces invading and conquering the kingdom. After the conquest, they looted Benin’s cultural treasures and brought many of them to British museums. Some British scholars at the time wrongly claimed that Benin had no written history and underestimated the intelligence and creativity of its people.

Art and Royalty in Benin

Oba Esigie, one of Benin's kings, was the first to commission a sculpture of his mother. He wanted to honour her power and strength. The idea of creating royal sculptures continued across generations. These artworks were made by skilled sculptors and became part of Benin’s royal tradition.

There were noticeable differences between male and female figures in these artworks. Male figures usually looked straight ahead, while female figures were sculpted with their gaze slightly lowered. These sculptures were considered royal art and were kept in the palace, symbolising respect and memory.

Tension with the British

The British appointed a new vice consul, Gallwey, and told him to sign a treaty with the Oba. This treaty was said to be for protection, but it mainly helped British interests. Gallwey later wrote that the Oba was clearly unhappy with the agreement, even though he signed it.

Later, James Phillips, acting as the Consul General, travelled to Benin with soldiers. This act caused serious concern among the people of Benin, who saw it as a threat. In response, they attacked the group, killing Phillips and his men. This incident gave the British an excuse to invade Benin fully and take control of it.

Cultural Destruction

Gallwey and other British officials described Benin as a violent place, calling it the city of blood and speaking of human sacrifices. However, they did not try to understand the cultural or religious meanings behind these practices. Their views were shaped by colonial prejudice rather than real understanding.

Keeping History Alive through Art

Although the Kingdom of Benin was destroyed over a century ago, its people continued to pass on their history. They used ceremonies, oral storytelling, and artistic traditions to preserve their identity and honour their ancestors. Artworks such as bronze plaques and ivory carvings became powerful tools to record their past. These objects were not only beautiful but also full of meaning, showing scenes from royal life, historical events, and spiritual beliefs. Even after colonisation, the legacy of Benin lived on through these creations, keeping their culture alive for future generations.

References

The Open University 2016, educational resource, Walton Hall, Milton Keynes, viewed 6 July 2025.