Dahomey Republic of Dahomey and gained full independence in 1960. It was renamed in 1975 the People's Republic of Benin, and in 1991 the Republic of Benin. The Dahomey kingship exists as a ceremonial role to this day. Early writings, predominantly written by European slave traders, often presented the kingdom as an absolute monarchy led by a despotic king. However, these depictions were often deployed as arguments by different sides in the slave trade debates, mainly in the United Kingdom, and as such were probably exaggerations. Recent historical work has emphasized the limits of monarchical power in the Kingdom of Dahomey.
In Dahomey twentieth century—minstrelsy, vaudeville, comic opera, and musical comedy." Significantly, the production of "In Dahomey" marked the first full-length African American musical to be staged in an indoor venue (following the earlier success of in a rooftop setting) on Broadway, premiering at the New York Theatre on February 18, 1903. During its four-year tour, "In Dahomey" proved one of the most successful musical comedies of its era. The show helped make its composer, lyricist and leading performers household names. "In Dahomey" was the first black musical to have its score published (albeit in the UK, not the US). The play is