King Guezo of Dahomey, 1850-52 : The Abolition of the Slave Trade on the West Coast of Africa

In order to bring an end to slave dealing the British Navy went in search of the final traders and offered them large sums of money in exchange for firm promises to give up their lucrative business.

Guezo, King of Dahomey had an army of 3000 women, to each of which he was married, having sold all the menfolk as slaves.

For entertainment he indulged in the sacrifice of trespassers from neighbouring West African countries.

He welcomed the approach of the naval officers, declaring Victoria and Albert as his closest friends.

This work explores various aspects of Guezo's life including descriptions of ceremonial human sacrifice and the army of Amazon women.

There is also coverage of mechanisms of dealing in slaves; British gunboats sent to the coast of West Africa; and the problems caused for British diplomacy, and colonials and missionaries.