Who was the Oba of Benin during the height of the kingdom's power in the 19th century?
Answer Details
The Oba of Benin during the height of the kingdom's power in the 19th century was Oba Ovonramwen.
Oba Ovonramwen ruled from 1888 to 1897 and he was the Ọba of Benin at a very critical time in the kingdom's history. His reign was marked by both progress and conflict as the Benin Kingdom faced external pressures and challenges.
During his reign, Oba Ovonramwen strengthened the centralized administration of the Benin Kingdom and promoted the arts, particularly bronze casting and ivory carving. He also expanded trade relations with neighboring regions, bringing wealth and prestige to the kingdom.
However, the Benin Kingdom also faced significant challenges during Oba Ovonramwen's reign. The British Empire, seeking to expand its influence and control in the region, saw the Benin Kingdom as a potential threat. In 1897, the British launched a punitive expedition against Benin, in what is now known as the "Benin Punitive Expedition."
The expedition resulted in the looting and burning of the royal palace, as well as the confiscation of many valuable artifacts and artworks, including the famous Benin bronzes. Oba Ovonramwen was eventually captured and exiled to Calabar in southeast Nigeria, where he spent the rest of his life in exile.
In summary, Oba Ovonramwen was the Oba of Benin during the height of the kingdom's power in the 19th century. His reign was marked by progress and conflict, with the Benin Kingdom facing external pressures from the British Empire. Despite the challenges, Oba Ovonramwen made significant contributions to the arts and trade in the kingdom.