Meet the most feared women in African history

The Dahomey Amazons. Known as the Mino warriors, this fierce all-female military squad from the kingdom of Dahomey, West Africa (modern-day Benin), operated from the 17th to 19th centuries. The Mino, nicknamed the Dahomey Amazons by Europeans, were initially elephant hunters who evolved into a formidable military force. These warriors, also called N’Nonmiton or "Our Mothers," were revered for their unmatched combat skills and loyalty to the kingdom.

Recruited as young as 8 years old, many Mino sought escape from poverty or oppressive marriages. They took vows of celibacy to stay focused on their duties. The Mino's rigorous training included survival expeditions and mastering combat techniques. With the motto "Conquer or Die," they dominated the battlefield and held significant roles in the kingdom’s Grand Council.

Armed with Winchester rifles, clubs, and knives, the Mino were a force to be reckoned with. By the mid-19th century, they numbered between 1,000 and 6,000, making up a third of Dahomey’s army. The kingdom eventually fell to French colonization, and the Mino were disbanded, but their legacy of courage and empowerment endures... 💪 💯