The Oba of Benin
I can describe the role of the Oba and how this is represented in some of the Benin Bronzes.
The Oba of Benin
I can describe the role of the Oba and how this is represented in some of the Benin Bronzes.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The Kingdom of Benin began in the 1000s CE and reached its peak in the 1400s CE under the rule of Oba Ewuare.
- The Obas were the rulers of Benin, and the people of Benin believed that they were divine and showed them great respect.
- Anyone approaching the Oba did so on their knees and were not allowed to look at him without permission.
- The Oba lived in a palace where they would meet with their officials and lead religious ceremonies.
- The British Museum holds many brass wall plaques showing Obas with their attendants conducting these rituals.
Keywords
Oba - the Oba was the ruler of the Edo people living in the Kingdom of Benin
Divine - to be divine is to be a god or like a god
Plaques - a plaque is a flat piece of metal, stone or wood with writing or images on it that is fixed to a wall or surface
Common misconception
All Obas of Benin were male.
While historically most Obas were, indeed, male, there were exceptions, and a few female rulers, known as "Queen Mothers," held significant influence and power. The Queen Mothers often acted as regents for young kings or played advisory roles.
To help you plan your year 6 history lesson on: The Oba of Benin, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 history lesson on: The Oba of Benin, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 2 history lessons from the Benin: Why have people argued about the Benin Bronzes? unit, dive into the full secondary history curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
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