Kingdom of Ile-Ife A.D. 1000-1300

Location Present-day Nigeria In the West African forests

The People of Ile-Ife The people of Ile-Ife were known as the Onis. Traditional stories told by these people described Ile-Ife as “The birthplace of humankind.” Religiously, the people of Ile-Ife have many gods. Artisans held in high regard – very important – in the kingdom.

The Rise of the Ile-Ife Empire Factor One: Trade Popular items of trade for the Ile-Ife Empire are agricultural products. Factor Two: Art Ile-Ife was popular for artisans who made sculptures of bronze and clay.

The Fall of the Ile-Ife Empire Reason 1: Benin’s Power The Benin Empire took over the wealth and political power in the region. Historians know very little about the early city because… Modern town of Ife is located on top of the ancient city. It is thickly forested and damp – trees cover old sites and rain washed away buildings and artifacts.

Kingdom of Benin A.D. 900-1600

Location Present-day Nigeria In the West African forests

The People of Benin The people of the Kingdom were known as the Edo people. The leaders were known as Obas. By the 1500s, Benin reached its greatest strength and size. Centre of art Obas hired skilled artists to make beautiful objects from bronze, brass, ivory and copper. Influenced modern artists in Europe and the Americas.

The Rise of the Benin Empire Factor One: Warfare The leaders of the Benin Empire are believed to have won hundreds of battles. Factor Two: Trade Benin traded iron, copper, and gold as well as slaves with other African empires and Europeans.

Fall of the Benin Empire Internal Rebellions by local chiefs. The last warrior king of Benin (the Oba) died and the empire began to shrink. Invaded by Britain The British Empire wanted to gain control of the oil and rubber resources.

Sources Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/guides/z3n7mp3