The Dahomey Kingdom was a powerful West African state that existed from the 17th to the 19th century, located in present-day Benin. It was known for its strong military, complex political structure, and rich cultural traditions. The kingdom was ruled by a series of kings, known as Ahosu, who played a crucial role in its expansion and governance. Dahomey was also famous for its elite female warriors, often referred to as the Amazons of Dahomey. The kingdom engaged in trade, including the slave trade, and had significant interactions with European powers. It was eventually conquered by the French in 1894, leading to its incorporation into French West Africa.