The land now known as Benin was once home to several powerful kingdoms, with the most prominent being Danhomé (Abomey), Xogbonou (Porto-Novo), Allada, Nikki, Kouandé, and Kandi. The earliest sovereigns of Abomey and Porto-Novo came from the Adja-Fon migrations from Tado in neighboring Togo, while other groups migrated from present-day Nigeria, Niger, and Burkina Faso. These kingdoms were well-organized city-states with established urban centers and prosperous local economies. By the 17th century, the slave trade became the primary economic activity, later replaced by the palm oil trade after the 1807 abolition of slavery.

The lucrative trade led to the establishment of trading posts along Benin’s coast, known as the “Slave Coast,” controlled by European powers, including the English, Danes, Portuguese, and French. France was granted permission to build a port in Ouidah in 1704, and the Portuguese arrived in Porto-Novo in 1752. The first French protectorate was established in 1863 when King Toffa of Porto-Novo sought protection from the English in Lagos and pressure from the King of Abomey. This led to increased French influence in the region, culminating in the creation of the colony of Dahomey in 1894.

Benin, known as Dahomey at independence on August 1, 1960, saw political instability during its early years, marked by multiple coups and short-lived civilian governments. The military took control in 1972 under Major Mathieu Kérékou, who implemented a Marxist-Leninist regime, renaming the country the People’s Republic of Benin and establishing a socialist economic system. However, by the 1980s, economic hardship and civil unrest forced the regime to consider reform. In 1990, a National Conference set the stage for democratic transition, with a new constitution and multiparty elections.

Since then, Benin has experienced a stable democratic process, with peaceful transitions of power. Notable leaders include Nicéphore Soglo, elected in 1991, and Mathieu Kérékou, who returned to power in 1996. In 2006, Thomas Boni Yayi emerged as president, ushering in a period of economic reforms. He was succeeded in 2016 by Patrice Talon, who continues to lead the country.

Benin’s journey has been shaped by three major phases: initial political instability, a military-Marxist period, and democratic renewal. Despite challenges, Benin has become known for the stability and continuity of its democratic institutions and is recognized as a model of democracy in West Africa.