Both could swim and walk on land
The Benin tribe of West Africa viewed mudfish as a symbol of power and transformation. This is due the mudfish's ability to lay in mudflats all summer long, then come back to life when rain came in the fall. Benin saw this as being 'reborn'. They also saw this as mudfish being able to swim as well as walk on land. Mudfish can shock people from their spines also. So....when the Portuguese came across the water on their boats and landed, the Benin saw them as powerful because they were able to 'live in the water as well as walk on land. The Portuguese also had muskets which the Benin equated to the shocking spines of the mudfish...Sorry for the mini pamphlet. I hope this helps.
Mudfish is considered sacred to the Benin people due to its cultural and spiritual significance in their traditions and beliefs. It is often associated with ancestral spirits and is believed to have protective qualities. The fish plays a role in various rituals and ceremonies, symbolizing fertility and abundance, and is also seen as a connection to their rich history and identity. This reverence reflects the deep relationship between the Benin people and their natural environment.
the portuguese
Benin
When the Portuguese arrived in Benin during the late 15th century, they were particularly impressed by the quality of Benin's textiles and the intricate bronze sculptures. The vibrant and finely woven fabrics showcased the region's skilled craftsmanship, while the bronze artworks highlighted the advanced artistry and cultural sophistication of the Benin Kingdom. These goods not only reflected the wealth and creativity of the society but also fostered trade relationships between the Portuguese and Benin.
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The Kingdom of Benin established trade relations with the Portuguese in the late 15th century, primarily exchanging goods such as pepper, ivory, and textiles for European items like metal tools and firearms. This interaction facilitated cultural exchanges and the introduction of Christianity, though it also intensified the transatlantic slave trade. The relationship fluctuated over time, with periods of cooperation and conflict, particularly as Portuguese influence grew in the region. Ultimately, the dynamics of this interaction significantly impacted Benin's political and economic landscape.
Monarchy in 1914, now under British rule, he did his best to restore the palace and continue the ... trade routes which the Africans controlled, the Portuguese arrived in the ... supply the casting industry of Benin city, which gave such splendour to the ... To take another example, a certain bird, a kind of fish eagle.
Gold and slaves. portuguese created a fort , the main fort was El mina, which directed them into the gold producing regions of the interior. so that they could trade with the merchants. portuguese even traded slaves to africans for gold.
the Kingdom of Nri, the Benin Empire, and the Oyo Empire.
An Ivory Salt Cellar is what the People of Benin in Ancient Africa used to store their salt. When the Portuguese traders first travelled to western Africa on an exploratory expidition in the late 15th century, they began to trade with the people of benin. When they traded commodities for salt, the Benin people gave them Ivory salt cellars as souvenirs with carvings of Europeans on the top of them.
An Ivory Salt Cellar is what the People of Benin in Ancient Africa used to store their salt. When the Portuguese traders first travelled to western Africa on an exploratory expidition in the late 15th century, they began to trade with the people of benin. When they traded commodities for salt, the Benin people gave them Ivory salt cellars as souvenirs with carvings of Europeans on the top of them.