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BASKET SACRIFICE, DAHOMEY
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BASKET SACRIFICE, DAHOMEY
In the Basket Sacrifice of Dahomey, captives from other tribes are tied in a basket and thrown down from a tower to the eager crowd below... Date: circa 1860
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Media ID 20147989
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1860 Captives Dahomey Eager Human Punished Punishment Sacrifice Thrown Tied Tribes 1860s
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Basket Sacrifice, Dahomey: A Haunting Reminder of Ancient African Customs and Practices This evocative image, titled "Basket Sacrifice, Dahomey," captures a chilling moment in African history, circa 1860. The photograph portrays a gruesome yet significant ritual practiced by the Dahomey Kingdom in what is now modern-day Benin, West Africa. In this scene, captives from neighboring tribes are tied securely in large baskets and then thrown down from a towering platform to the eager crowd below. The reason for this horrifying punishment was to appease the gods and ensure the continued prosperity and protection of the Dahomey Kingdom. The captives, who were often taken during raids or wars, were considered sacrifices to the gods. The fall from the tower was believed to be a swift and painless death, as the victims would be killed upon impact with the ground. The image is a stark reminder of the complex and often brutal customs and practices that existed in Africa during the 1860s. It is a testament to the power and influence of traditional beliefs and the lengths to which people were willing to go to maintain their way of life. Despite the disturbing nature of this ritual, it is essential to remember that it was an integral part of the cultural fabric of the Dahomey Kingdom. It reflects the deep-rooted beliefs and values of the people, as well as their complex social and political structures. Today, this image serves as a reminder of the rich and complex history of Africa and the diverse customs and practices that have shaped its people. It is a powerful reminder of the past and a testament to the resilience and adaptability of African cultures in the face of change and adversity.
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