The Annual Customs of Dahomey. The main yearly celebration in the Kingdom of Dahomey (currently Benin), held at the capital, Abomey, in early autumn as a tribute to the invisible spirits. At that time, taxes were collected, the price was fixed in current currency, military and civilian commanders were appointed, good deeds were rewarded and criminals were severely punished, from which the victims destined for the Annual Customs were chosen. On the assigned day they appeared on a high platform and, in baskets, were thrown into a void, dying beheaded by the executioners. Engraving by Capuz. La I
The Annual Customs of Dahomey. The main yearly celebration in the Kingdom of Dahomey (currently Benin), held at the capital, Abomey, in early autumn as a tribute to the invisible spirits. At that time, taxes were collected, the price was fixed in current currency, military and civilian commanders were appointed, good deeds were rewarded and criminals were severely punished, from which the victims destined for the Annual Customs were chosen. On the assigned day they appeared on a high platform and, in baskets, were thrown into a void, dying beheaded by the executioners. Engraving by Capuz. La Ilustracion Española y Americana, September 15, 1876.
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Photo credit: © Prisma Archivo / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
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