Republic of Dahomey

Also known as Dahomey

former country

Key facts

1960: Hubert Maga
Status: Self-governing colony of France (1958–1960)
Capital: Porto-Novo
Common languages: French , Yoruba , Fon
Government: Presidential republic (1960–1963, 1964–1965, 1968–1970), Military dictatorship (1963–1964, 1965–1968, 1972–1975)
1960 1963: Hubert Maga
1972 1975: Mathieu Kérékou
1967 1968: Maurice Kouandété
1964 1965: Justin Ahomadégbé-Tomêtin
Historical era: Cold War
Self governing colony: 4 December 1958
Independence: 1 August 1960

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Article

Today part ofBenin

The Republic of Dahomey (French: République du Dahomey; pronounced [daɔmɛ]), simply known as Dahomey (Fon: Danhomè), was established on 4 December 1958, as a self-governing colony within the French Community. Prior to attaining autonomy, it had been French Dahomey, part of the French Union. On 1 August 1960, it attained full independence from France.