République du Dahomey Republic of Dahomey ← 1958–1975 → Flag Anthem L'Aube Nouvelle  (French) The Dawn of a New Day Capital Porto-Novo Language(s) French Government Republic Historical era Cold War  - Self-governing colony December 11, 1958 1958  - Independence August 5, 1960  - Renamed November 30, 1975 Currency CFA franc

The Republic of Dahomey (French: République du 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 re-named Benin after the Bight of Benin (which was in turn named after the Kingdom of Benin which had its seat of power in Benin City, modern day Nigeria), since "Benin", unlike "Dahomey", was deemed politically neutral for all ethnic groups in the state.

[edit] See also

• 1963 Dahomeyan coup d'état

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