The Women Warriors of Africa
"The blacksmith takes an iron bar and by fire changes its fashion so have we changed our nature. We are no longer women, we are men "
The Agojie
- ALPERN, Stanley B. Amazons of Black Sparta : The Women Warriors of Dahomey, London: C. Hurst & Co. Ltd. 2011
Have you heard about the Agojie Female African Warriors?
Hey Africans and Friends from other Continents! Have you ever heard of the Agojie warriors? They were some of the bravest women in history and lived in a place called Dahomey, which is now part of Benin in Africa.
A Little History:
The Agojie, also known as the "Dahomey Amazons," were fierce female warriors" an "all female regiment who fought to protect the kingdom of Dahomey.They existed between 15th to the 17th century. Belonging to a warrior group called MINO, They were known for their amazing skills in battle and their bravery.
- Photo credit:Seh-Dong-Hong-Beh, leader of the en:Dahomey Amazons, drawn by Frederick
Female soldiers were also recruited from free Dahomean women, with some enrolled from as young as eight years of age.Other accounts showed that the Mino were recruited from among the Ahosi ("king's wives"), which often in hundreds. Some women in the "Fon" or Dahomean society became soldiers voluntarily, while others were forced if their husbands or fathers complained to the king about their behaviour.
Unknown Facts About the Agojie:
1.All-Women Army: The Agojie was one of the first all-women armies in modern history. Likened to the Amazons in Greek tales, They showed that women can be just as strong and brave as men.Hostory has it that the Agojie routinely showed more courage and fighting skill than the men of the same army!
2. Special Training: These warriors trained really hard! From a young age if 8 years , they learned how to fight, use weapons, and work as a team. Some doubled as the King's wife and personal bodyguards while others fought battles for the kingdom.
3. Unique Hairstyles: The Agojie had hairstyles that depicted their strength. They often wore their hair in special styles to show they were warriors.
4. Fierce Reputation: Being fearsome warriors, they were feared by thier enemies and ally alike. It was said that they charged into Cactus and thorny bushes after their enemies with no fear of pain or mortal wounds.
5. Cultural Icons: The Agojie didn’t just fight; they were also important in their communities. They helped make decisions and were respected by everyone for their strength and wisdom.
6-Origin of the Agojie:The formation of a female-only army unit was a retaliation and maneuver around the forced tribute of male slaves to Oyo each year.The Nigerian Uprising
The Agojie warriors remind us that anyone can be strong and brave, no matter who they arenir thier sex. They inspire us to stand up for what we believe in and to be proud of ourselves as African with rich histories.
So next time you think about heroes, remember the amazing Agojie warriors! 💪#Agojie #GirlPower #HistoryHeroes . African warriors #Africngiant
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