First Franco-Dahomean War

Quick Facts: Who was First Franco-Dahomean War?

Subject:

First Franco-Dahomean War

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The 1890 conflict between France and the powerful Fon kingdom of Dahomey.

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2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

The First Franco-Dahomean War was fought in 1890 between France, led by General Alfred-Amédée Dodds, and Dahomey under King Béhanzin. At the close of the 19th century, European powers were busy conquering and colonising much of Africa. In what is today Benin, the main colonial power was the Third French Republic. The French had established commercial ties with the indigenous peoples of the area including one of West Africa's most powerful states at the time, the Fon kingdom of Dahomey. In 1851, a Franco-Dahomean friendship treaty was ratified allowing the French to operate commercially and missionaries to enter the country.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

By 1890, the Fon kingdom of Dahomey was at the height of its power. It laid claim to almost all the coast of modern Benin plus much of south-central Benin as far north as Atcheribé. One of Dahomey's most important tributaries was the small kingdom of Porto-Novo near the coast. The kingdom had been at odds with Dahomey on and off since the middle of the 18th century. In 1861, Porto-Novo was attacked by British anti-slaving ships.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Porto-Novo asked for and received French protection in 1863, but this was rejected by Dahomey. Another issue of contention was the status of Cotonou, a port the French believed was under their control because of a treaty signed by Dahomey's representative in Whydah. Dahomey ignored all French claims there as well and continued to collect customs from the port. In 1874, King Toffa I took power in Porto-Novo and re-established French protection over the kingdom after Dahomey attacked it in 1882. Dahomey continued raiding the town, which culminated in an incident that brought the Fon and French into war.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 1851: 1851 Milestone — In 1851, a Franco-Dahomean friendship treaty was ratified allowing the French to operate commercially and missionaries to enter the country.
2. 1861: 1861 Milestone — In 1861, Porto-Novo was attacked by British anti-slaving ships.
3. 1863: 1863 Milestone — Porto-Novo asked for and received French protection in 1863, but this was rejected by Dahomey.
4. 1874: 1874 Milestone — In 1874, King Toffa I took power in Porto-Novo and re-established French protection over the kingdom after Dahomey attacked it in 1882.
5. 1890: 1890 Milestone — The First Franco-Dahomean War was fought in 1890 between France, led by General Alfred-Amédée Dodds, and Dahomey under King Béhanzin.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: First Franco-Dahomean War

True or False: “The First Franco-Dahomean War was fought solely over French claims to the port of Cotonou.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): While Cotonou was a major point of contention, the conflict also involved Dahomey's refusal to acknowledge French protection in Porto-Novo and general colonial power struggles.

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Frequently Asked Questions about First Franco-Dahomean War