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Amazons of Dahomey in Battle; The Kingdom of Dahomey, 1875. Creator: Unknown
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Amazons of Dahomey in Battle; The Kingdom of Dahomey, 1875. Creator: Unknown
Amazons of Dahomey in Battle; The Kingdom of Dahomey, 1875. From Illustrated Travels by H.W. Bates. [Cassell, Petter, and Galpin, c1880, London] and Galpin
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Media ID 36366563
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
1870s Amazon Amazons Attack Attacking Bates Henry Walter Bates Hw Bow And Arrow Cassell Petter Galpin Dahomey Dead Dead Body Feminine Henry Walter Bates Hw Bates Illustrated Travels Petter And Galpin Regiment Severed Head Severed Heads Strength Strong Tribal Tribe Warriors West Africa West African Armed Services Cassell
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, titled 'Amazons of Dahomey in Battle; The Kingdom of Dahomey' dates back to the 1870s, taken from H.W. Bates' 'Illustrated Travels' published by Cassell, Petter, and Galpin in London. The image offers a glimpse into the powerful and formidable Dahomey Amazons, an all-female military regiment from the Kingdom of Dahomey in West Africa. The Amazons, dressed in traditional apparel, are depicted in the midst of battle, armed with bows and arrows, and carrying the severed heads of their enemies as a symbol of their strength and victory. Their fierce and determined expressions convey the intensity of the moment, while their uniformity in dress and weaponry underscores the disciplined nature of the regiment. The photograph, taken by an unknown photographer, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and history of the Kingdom of Dahomey, which flourished in the late 19th century. The image challenges Western perceptions of African women as weak and submissive, instead portraying them as strong and powerful warriors. The traditional dress of the Amazons, with its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, is a striking contrast to the monochrome palette of the photograph. The severed heads, a controversial aspect of the image, were believed to be a symbol of the Amazons' bravery and dedication to their kingdom. This photograph is a valuable historical document, offering insight into the military practices and cultural traditions of the Kingdom of Dahomey, and the role of women in African societies during this period. It is a reminder of the complex and diverse histories that exist beyond the dominant Western narratives, and the importance of preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Africa.
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