Formerly, Dahomey.a republic in W Africa: formerly part of French West Africa; gained independence in 1960. 3,197,000; 44,290 sq. mi. (114,711 sq. km). Capital:Porto Novo.
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Bight of, a bay in N Gulf of Guinea in W Africa.
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a former native kingdom in W Africa: now incorporated into Nigeria.
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a river in S Nigeria, flowing into the Bight of Benin.
A former kingdom of western Africa, now part of Nigeria. It flourished from the 14th to the 17th century.
Formerly Da·ho·mey (də-hō'mē, dä-ô-mā') A country of western Africa. Originally made up of several ancient kingdoms colonized by France in the 19th century, it became independent in 1960 and was renamed Benin in 1975. Porto-Novo is the capital and Cotonou the largest city. Population: 8,080,000.
also Benin City A city of southern Nigeria on the Benin River, about 161 km (100 mi) long. The city is known for its bronze works of art. Population: 1,120,000.
Benin, Bight of A wide indentation of the Gulf of Guinea in western Africa.
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