What was the Kingdom of Benin like before the 16th century?
This resource on the ancient Kingdom of Benin has been written for year 7 students and can be used as part of a key stage 3 unit on West African kingdoms.
Students study a pictorial source and then answer comprehension questions about a one-page text, which gives an overview of the role of the Oba, the building of the Benin Empire, the importance of craftspeople and specialist workers' guilds in the society of ancient Benin, and the rise of trade with Europe.
An extract from the reading text:
Benin was famous for its craftspeople – like blacksmiths, leather workers and ivory carvers. These and other specialists – including doctors, drummers and dancers – formed groups called guilds. Benin City had over 40 guilds and each had to carry out specific tasks for the Oba. For instance, the brass workers worked only for the Oba and had to decorate his palaces with sculpted panels (now known as the Benin Bronzes).
