French Dahomey French Dahomey French Dahomey was a French colony of and a part of French West Africa from 1904 to 1958. After World War II, by the establishment of the French Fourth Republic in 1947, Dahomey became part of the French Union with an increased autonomy. On 11 December 1958, the French Fifth Republic was established and the French Union became the French Community. The colony became the self-governing Republic of Dahomey within the Community, and two years later on 1 August 1960 it gained full independence (and in 1975 changed its name to Benin). During the 13th century, the indigenous
In Dahomey York Theatre, starring George Walker and Bert Williams, two iconic figures of vaudeville entertainment at the time. The musical ran for 53 completed performances, including two tours in the United States and one tour of the United Kingdom. In total, "In Dahomey" ran for a combined total of four years. Produced by McVon Hurtig and Harry Seamon, "In Dahomey" was the first to star African American performers Bert Williams and George Walker, two of the leading comedians in America at the time. "In Dahomey" opened on February 18, 1903, at the New York Theatre, and closed on April 4, 1903