Kingdom of Benin

Dead Funny History: Kingdom of Benin.

Join historian Greg Jenner for a fast-paced, funny and fact-packed journey through the history of the Kingdom of Benin full of powerful rulers, incredible art, and some very questionable British behaviour.

This episode of Dead Funny History is bursting with jokes, sketches and sound effects that bring the past to life for families and Key Stage 2 learners. Discover how the Ogisos, “rulers of the sky”, gave way to the Obas, god-like kings who rebuilt cities and led armies. Learn about Queen Idia, the original palace-owning mum, and the guilds of artists who created the famous Benin Bronzes, many of which were looted during British colonisation.

From Portuguese coconut diplomacy to British invasions to the trading of enslaved people and the destruction of Benin City in 1897.

Perfect for curious kids, families, and fans of You’re Dead To Me, this is history with humour, heart and high production value. Expect sketches, spoof news reports, and a quiz to test your memory.

Written by Gabby Hutchinson Crouch, Athena Kugblenu and Dr Emma Nagouse

Host: Greg Jenner

Performers: Mali Ann Rees and John-Luke Roberts

Producer: Dr Emma Nagouse

Associate Producer: Gabby Hutchinson Crouch

Audio Producer: Emma Weatherill

Script Consultant: Barnaby Phillips

Production Coordinator: Liz Tuohy

Production Manager: Jo Kyle

Sound Designer: Peregrine Andrews

A BBC Studios Production