Republic of Dahomey Republic of Dahomey The Republic of Dahomey ( ) was established on December 11, 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 August 1, 1960, it attained full independence from France. In 1975, the country was renamed Benin after the Bight of Benin (which was in turn named after the Benin Empire which had its seat of power in Benin City, modern-day Nigeria), since "Benin" was deemed politically neutral for all ethnic groups in the state, whereas "Dahomey" recalled the Fon-dominated 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