2. Development of Oyo and Dahomey: d. The conquest of Dahomey, by Oyo

Question 1

What period is associated with the conquest of Dahomey by Oyo?

Answer 1

Conquest period: 1726-1730.

Question 2

What threat did Dahomey’s conquest of Hueda and Allada pose?

Answer 2

Threatened Oyo’s own commercial interests with Europeans. (Date: Late 1720s)

Question 3

Who demanded annual tribute from Dahomey?

Answer 3

The Alafin of Oyo, Ojigi, demanded annual tribute from Dahomey in 1730.

Question 4

How did Dahomey’s ruler respond to the tribute demand?

Answer 4

Agaja resisted the demand until 1740.

Question 5

When did Oyo invade Dahomey to enforce tribute demands?

Answer 5

Oyo invaded Dahomey in 1742 and again in 1748.

Question 6

How did Tegbesu respond to Oyo’s invasions?

Answer 6

Tegbesu submitted to the demand for tribute after invasions. (Date: Post-1748)

Question 7

What challenge did the Oyo cavalry face during the invasion?

Answer 7

Oyo cavalry could be scattered by Dahomey’s firearms. (Date: 1742 & 1748)

Question 8

What was the outcome of the Oyo invasions despite the cavalry challenge?

Answer 8

Oyo forces overpowered Dahomey. (Date: 1742 & 1748)

Question 9

What was Tegbesu’s experience in Oyo before becoming ruler?

Answer 9

Had been a hostage in Oyo in the 1730s and maintained links with Oyo.

Question 10

How did Tegbesu maintain links with Oyo after being a hostage?

Answer 10

Borrowed Ilari slaves from Oyo to use as messengers and assistants. (Date: 1730s)

Question 11

What did the annual tribute from Dahomey include?

Answer 11

Large payments of slaves, gunpowder, corals, cowrie shells; gifts at each coronation of a new Alafin. (Date: 1740s onward)