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The Former king of Dahomey and his wives
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The Former king of Dahomey and his wives
Behanzin, the Former king of Dahomey and his wives in exile in Algeria. Behanzin (1844-1906) is considered the eleventh King of Dahomey (now Benin). Upon taking the throne, he changed his name from Kondo. He succeeded his father, Glele, and ruled from 1889 to 1894. Behanzin was the last independent ruler established through traditional power structures - he led the national resistance during the Dahomey War. Date: circa 1900
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Algeria Dahomey Exile Exiled Polygamous Polygamy Ruler Wives Behanzin
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This evocative photograph captures the former King of Dahomey, Behanzin (1844-1906), and his wives in exile in Algeria during the early 1900s. Behanzin, also known as Kondo or Bihuazin, is considered the eleventh monarch of Dahomey (now Benin), a West African kingdom renowned for its powerful military and unique royal court. Upon ascending to the throne in 1889, Behanzin assumed the name Behanzin, succeeding his father, Glele. He ruled during a time of significant change, as European powers were encroaching on the African continent. Behanzin led the national resistance during the Dahomey War (1892-1894), making him the last independent ruler to be established through traditional power structures. Despite the challenges he faced, Behanzin's court was known for its grandeur and the king's many wives. Polygamy was a common practice among African rulers, and Behanzin's harem reportedly numbered in the hundreds. In this image, the former king and some of his wives are seen in exile, their faces expressing a mix of sadness, resilience, and defiance. The photograph is a poignant reminder of a bygone era, when powerful African monarchs ruled their lands with traditional authority and cultural richness. It also underscores the complexities of the colonial era, as European powers sought to impose their will on African societies while also engaging with their leaders and customs.
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