How was Nigeria before colonization?

The pre-colonial era saw the flourishing of slave trade, which was later declared illegal by the British in the early 19th century. The pre-colonial era, in what later became known as Nigeria, witnessed elaborate systems of government in both the North and the West, more especially in the former.

What was the name of Nigeria before colonization?

The Benin Empire (1440–1897; called Bini by locals) was a pre-colonial African state in what is now modern Nigeria. It should not be confused with the modern-day country called Benin, formerly called Dahomey.

How did colonialism affect Nigeria culture?

Loss of culture and identity When the colonialists took over the country’s rule during the colonial era, the natives suffered a massive culture and identity loss. The British brought and imposed their culture, language, behaviour, beliefs, and other ways of life on the Nigerians.

What was religion like in Nigeria before colonization?

Before the advent of colonization, the Igbo people of South-Eastern Nigeria believed in Odinani, the common name for the traditional Igbo religious practices. Odinani had a monotheistic attribute. They believed in one God (Chineke or Chukwu) who also had lots of spirits (Alusi).

What were the signposts of Nigeria before 1500 AD?

Long before 1500, much of present-day Nigeria was divided into states, which can be identified with the modern ethnic groups that trace their history to the origins of these states. These early states included the Yoruba kingdoms, the Edo kingdom of Benin, the Hausa cities, and Nupe.

When was Nigeria first colonized?

Colonial Nigeria

Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria (1914–1954) Federation of Nigeria (1954–1960)
Historical era	WWI / Cold War
• Established	1 January 1914
• Autonomous federation	1 October 1954
• Independence	1 October 1960

Why was Nigeria colonized?

The British targeted Nigeria because of its resources. The British wanted products like palm oil and palm kernel and export trade in tin, cotton, cocoa, groundnuts, palm oil and so on (Graham, 2009). The British accomplished the colonization by using its military.

What was the Igbo culture like before colonization?

Pre-colonial Igbo lived in autonomous communities. There was a total absence of chiefs in the nation. Each autonomous community was made up of kindreds, and each kindred was led by the oldest male. This kindred leadership was not inherited.