The Edo (Benin) Culture and History: A Powerful Kingdom

History JSS 1 Second Term Lesson Notes – Week 8

Topic: The Edo (Benin) Culture and History

Lesson Details

Subject: History
Class: JSS 1
Term: Second Term
Week: 8
Age: 10–13 years
Duration: 40 Minutes

Behavioural Objectives

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

Explain the origin of the Edo (Benin) people.
Identify key rulers and historical figures of the Benin Kingdom.
Describe the political structure of the Benin Kingdom.
Discuss the cultural and artistic achievements of the Edo people.
Explain the influence of Benin on Nigerian history.

Keywords

Edo
Benin Kingdom
Oba
Igodomigodo
Eweka
Bronze
Culture

Set Induction

The teacher asks students if they have heard about the Benin Kingdom and its famous artworks.

Entry Behaviour

Students have learned about Ile-Ife’s role in Yoruba history. This lesson connects to the influence of Benin.

Learning Resources and Materials

Map of Nigeria showing Edo State
Pictures of Benin bronzes and artifacts
Videos or documentaries on Benin history

Building Background / Connection to Prior Knowledge

Students already know about early civilizations like Nok and Ife. This lesson introduces another major civilization, Benin.

Embedded Core Skills

Critical thinking
Historical analysis
Cultural appreciation

Learning Materials

History textbooks
Oral traditions and folklore
Benin historical records

Reference Books

“A Short History of Benin” by Jacob Egharevba
“The Benin Kingdom and the Edo-Speaking Peoples” by R. E. Bradbury

Lesson Explanation

1. The Origin of the Edo (Benin) People

The Edo people are the indigenous people of the Benin Kingdom, located in present-day Edo State, Nigeria.

The earliest form of the Benin Kingdom was known as Igodomigodo.
The first rulers were called Ogiso, meaning “Kings of the Sky.”
The Benin Kingdom later adopted a monarchical system under the Oba of Benin, starting with Oba Eweka I.

2. Key Rulers and Historical Figures of Benin

Ogiso Era: The earliest kings before the monarchy.
Oba Eweka I: First Oba of Benin, established the royal dynasty.
Oba Ewuare the Great (1440-1473): Expanded Benin’s territory and strengthened the kingdom.
Oba Esigie (1504-1550): Defended Benin from external attacks and developed diplomatic ties with Portugal.
Oba Ovonramwen (1888-1897): The last independent ruler before British colonization in 1897.

3. The Political Structure of the Benin Kingdom

Oba (King): The supreme ruler with divine authority.
Uzama N’Ihinron: A council of noble chiefs that advised the Oba.
Palace Officials: Assisted in the administration of the kingdom.
Guilds and Warriors: Maintained the economy and protected the kingdom.

4. Cultural and Artistic Achievements of the Edo People

Benin Bronzes: Famous for intricate bronze and ivory carvings.
Festivals: The Igue Festival celebrates the Oba’s power and blessings.
Traditional Religion: Worship of deities like Olokun (goddess of the sea).
Architecture: The walls of Benin City were one of the largest man-made structures in history.

5. The Influence of Benin on Nigerian History

Benin influenced neighboring Yoruba states like Oyo and Ife.
It had early contact with Europeans, trading with the Portuguese.
The kingdom’s military strength and administrative system shaped Nigerian history.

Evaluation Questions (Fill in the Blanks with a, b, c, or d)

The earliest name of the Benin Kingdom was ____.
a) Oyo
b) Igodomigodo
c) Ile-Ife
d) Nok
The first rulers of Benin were called ____.
a) Ooni
b) Sultan
c) Ogiso
d) Emir
Who was the first Oba of Benin?
a) Oba Esigie
b) Oba Ewuare
c) Oba Ovonramwen
d) Oba Eweka I
The famous Benin artworks are made of ____.
a) Bronze and ivory
b) Wood and glass
c) Gold and silver
d) Stone and leather
The Igue Festival in Benin is celebrated in honor of ____.
a) The Oba
b) The Ooni
c) The Emir
d) The Sultan
Which European country first had contact with Benin?
a) Britain
b) Spain
c) Portugal
d) France
The Benin Kingdom was colonized by the British in ____.
a) 1600
b) 1897
c) 1914
d) 1960
The Benin Kingdom had a powerful ____.
a) Army
b) Navy
c) Parliament
d) Court
The Oba of Benin was advised by ____.
a) Uzama N’Ihinron
b) House of Lords
c) Senate
d) Parliament
Which deity was worshipped by the Edo people?
a) Sango
b) Obatala
c) Olokun
d) Ogun

Class Activity Discussion (10 FAQs with Answers)

What was the original name of Benin Kingdom?
- Igodomigodo.
Who was the first Oba of Benin?
- Oba Eweka I.
What is Benin famous for in art?
- Bronze and ivory sculptures.
Who was Oba Ewuare?
- He expanded the Benin Kingdom.
What is the Igue Festival?
- A festival celebrating the Oba’s spiritual power.
Which European country first traded with Benin?
- Portugal.
What happened to Benin in 1897?
- The British invaded and colonized it.
Who was the last independent Oba of Benin?
- Oba Ovonramwen.
What was the role of the Uzama chiefs?
- They advised the Oba.
What is the significance of the Benin Walls?

They were one of the largest man-made structures in history.

Presentation Steps

Introduction: Teacher revises previous topics on early Nigerian kingdoms.
Discussion: Students share what they know about Benin culture.
Teacher’s Explanation: Detailed discussion on Benin’s history and culture.
Class Interaction: Questions and discussion on Benin’s influence on Nigeria.
Conclusion: Summary and review of key points.

Teacher’s and Learners’ Activities

Teacher: Guides discussion, presents historical facts, and asks questions.
Learners: Participate in discussion, answer questions, and take notes.

Evaluation Questions (Short Answers)

What was the early name of the Benin Kingdom?
Who was the first Oba of Benin?
What material is used in Benin art?
What is the Igue Festival?
Who was the last independent Oba of Benin?

Conclusion

The teacher marks students’ work, provides corrections, and assigns further reading on the Benin Kingdom.