The Dahomey Amazon Warriors: The Legendary Army of Women Warriors

The course presents a glimpse into an often overlooked part of African history, specifically the Kingdom of Dahomey in modern-day Benin. This kingdom is renowned for its all-female regiment, the Dahomey Amazons or Mino, who were chosen based on physical attributes and loyalty and played pivotal roles in society. They served as the king’s bodyguards and displayed exceptional valor and combat skills. However, the kingdom was also involved in the Transatlantic Slave Trade. In the late 19th century, European powers sought to colonize Dahomey, leading to fierce resistance by the kingdom, with the Amazons at the forefront. Despite their bravery, French colonization prevailed, and the post-colonial narratives often distorted their story. Today, efforts like the film “The Woman King” aim to present their history from an authentic African perspective, reshaping narratives and highlighting the legacy of the Dahomey Amazons as symbols of resilience and complexity in African history.