The 1897 Benin Expedition

The 1897 Benin Expedition is a detailed historical study that examines the British invasion of the Benin Kingdom with accuracy, balance, and educational intent. The work traces the political, economic, and cultural foundations of the Benin Kingdom before colonial contact, highlighting its advanced governance, regulated trade systems, and rich artistic traditions. It situates the expedition within the broader context of British imperial expansion in West Africa, exposing the economic ambitions and ideological justifications that underpinned colonial aggression.

The write-up critically analyzes the events leading to the Phillips mission, the military invasion of Benin City, the exile of Oba Ovonramwen, and the systematic looting of sacred artworks known today as the Benin Bronzes. It challenges colonial narratives by incorporating African perspectives and emphasizing the sovereignty of Benin prior to 1897. The work also explores the long-term consequences of the expedition, including colonial rule, cultural displacement, and contemporary debates over restitution and historical justice.

Written for educational purposes, the study presents the 1897 Benin Expedition as a defining moment in African colonial history, offering readers a deeper understanding of imperial conquest, resistance, and the enduring legacy of cultural loss.