If you, like me, are a fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, then you're undoubtedly familiar with Wakanda, the advanced civilization hidden deep within the African continent and ruled by the mighty T'Challa, better known as the Black Panther. But did you know that Wakanda is based on a real place? For nearly nine centuries, the Benin Kingdom thrived in what's now Southern Nigeria. At its height, it was a highly sophisticated society, undertaking impressive engineering projects and producing some of the greatest works of art ever to come out of Africa. When did the civilization come about? What were its greatest achievements? And what brought about its end? Tune in to find out!
