Military in Benin

When did Benin first request military assistance from Portugal?

1514

What weaponry did Oba Esigie want from Portugal?

Canon

What did the Portuguese request Oba Esigie to do in return for a canon?

Convert to Christianity

What did Oba Esigie order the army to do after Portugal refused to supply a canon?

Forcibly seize a Portuguese canon

What was the size of Benin's standing army by the 17th century?

20,000

Who led wars by the 16th Century?

iyase

How many battles is Oba Ozolua said to have won?

200- Mythical number

Which Oba built the Moat of Benin?

Oba Esigie

What did Oba Esigie build?

Great Moat of Benin

Which Oba died in a canoe accident?

Oba Ehengbuda

What rule was created after the death of Oba Ehengbuda?

Obas could not lead armies into battle.