CONCLUSIONS
Ancient Dahomey was a small densely populated kingdom built on slavery and trade in slaves, but also on agriculture. Remains of abandoned old Dahomean settlements can still be seen, for instance near old baobab-trees. And many settlements from the days of the kingdom are still in existence. The subterranean caves are another testimony to the old Dahomean settlements.
Everywhere the old voudou shrines and sacred forests are still held in high respect, themselves important historical and archaeological sites. The now abandoned Royal palace estates with their tall walls demonstrate that the Dahomean princes also held at least as strong an interest in agriculture as they did in military affairs. Each new king was creating palace estates for his own lineage. The kingdom represented elite despotism in an intelligent and administratively developed form. Indeed, Dahomey was in rapid military expansion in the early 18th century. In the late 19th century, however, it was under pressure from European powers. Like all small states, Dahomey was under influence, in spite of its firm agricultural base and even exports.Today, developing Bénin has a very young population attracted by life in the capital and other cities. Traditional life still dominates in the countryside and in the behaviour among and between people. But history tends to be measured simply: Before the French/The colonial period/After independence.
Cultural Heritage may seem a distant interest in the age of Globalization, especially to young people. Nevertheless, the material remains of past cultures represent a claim for roots of all peoples, both those with and those without a known history; thus, cultural heritage is a common responsibility. In fact, through the cultural heritage a total history of the region of Bénin is beginning to emerge.
Become a partner in this important work: Protect ancient sites; report archaeological discoveries and finds to your local museum!