Discover Queen Hangbé

Who was Queen Hangbé?

Hangbé is one of the most emblematic figures of the kingdom of Danxomè. She is often presented as the queen who reigned over the kingdom in the early 18th century.

Origins: the daughter of Princess Tezifon

According to tradition, Hangbé is the daughter of Princess Tezifon, one of the wives of King Akaba. She is thus the half-sister of King Agbo Sassa and the sister of King Agadja. Akaba’s kingdom was extensive: he reigned over the Fon, the Yoruba of Kétou, the Hollidjenous and his reign extended from Agrime to the Mono river.

When Akaba died, the crown was claimed by both Agbo Sassa and Agadja. The custom of the country did not allow the queen mother, or a woman, to exercise power. However, the two pretenders could not agree.

Queen Hangbé’s reign (1708–1711)

To avoid a fratricidal war, the elders and the ministers of the kingdom chose to entrust the supreme power to Hangbé, who reigned over Abomey from 1708 to 1711. During her reign, she distinguished herself by:

• the construction of the palace of Gbêcon (the current site of the residence of the kings of Abomey, now a UNESCO World Heritage site);
• the practice of major military campaigns during which she personally took part, commanding her troops and showing great courage;
• her ability to ensure the continuity and stability of the kingdom at a delicate time.

According to oral tradition, Hangbé is at the origin of the corps of Amazons (women soldiers of Danxomè) — the “Mino” or “Agossoun” — which she is said to have created from among the women of her palace.

Her brother Agadja, then the kings Guézo and Glélé

At the end of her reign, the supreme power was handed over to her brother Agadja, who continued and expanded the kingdom. The figure of Hangbé remained alive in the memory of the kingdom, and the kings Guézo and Glélé later honoured her memory.

Why this name for the Foundation?

By choosing the name of Queen Hangbé, the Foundation wishes to honour a strong and courageous woman, and to draw inspiration from her values:

• the courage and determination of women;
• women’s leadership and their place in society;
• the promotion of the great female figures of African history.

Detailed historical sources will be added during the content migration.