Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term - Senior Secondary 1

TERM – 2^ND TERM

WEEK FIVE

Class: Senior Secondary School 1

Age: 15 years

Duration: 40 minutes of 5 periods each

Date:

Subject: HISTORY

Topic: IFE AND OYO

SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to

I.) Mention theories of Yoruba origin and relations between Ife and the rest of Yoruba land.

II.) Describe the rise and growth of the Old Oyo Empire.

III.) Discuss the economic prosperity of the oyo kingdom

IV.) Discuss the decline and collapse of the Oyos

INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNIQUES: Identification, explanation, questions and answers, demonstration, videos from source

INSTRUCTg

L PROCEDURES

PERIOD 1-2

NOTE

IFE AND OYO

Ife was an ancient city-state in southwestern Nigeria, known for its significant role in Yoruba mythology and history. It was established around the 4th century AD and became a major center of art, religion, and trade. Ife is often referred to as the birthplace of the Yoruba people and is renowned for its exquisite bronze, brass, and terracotta sculptures, particularly the famous "Ifẹ Head," a symbol of Yoruba artistry.

The Oyo Empire was a powerful and influential state that emerged in the 15th century in what is now southwestern Nigeria. It was one of the most significant pre-colonial African empires, known for its complex political system, military strength, and control over trade routes in West Africa.

Foundation and Rise

The Oyo Empire traces its origins to the legendary figure of Oranmiyan, a prince from Ife who is said to have founded the dynasty. Oranmiyan's descendants established Oyo-Ile (Old Oyo) as the capital, which became the center of political and economic power in the region. The empire expanded through military conquest and alliances with neighboring states, including Dahomey, Benin, and Nupe.

Oyo was governed by a hierarchical system with the Alaafin (king) at the apex. The Alaafin was both the political and spiritual leader of the empire, wielding considerable authority over his subjects. Below the Alaafin were various titled officials, including the Bashorun (prime minister), Oyomesi (council of chiefs), and provincial governors.

Economic Prosperity

Oyo's control over trade routes, particularly those connecting the interior with coastal ports, facilitated the exchange of goods such as ivory, textiles, and slaves. The empire benefited from trade with European merchants, particularly during the Atlantic slave trade era. Additionally, agriculture, including the cultivation of yams and palm oil, was vital to the economy of the empire.

Decline and Collapse

By the late 18th century, internal strife, succession disputes, and external pressures began to weaken the Oyo Empire. European powers, particularly the British, sought to undermine Oyo's influence and establish their own trade networks in the region. Additionally, the Fulani Jihad, led by Usman dan Fodio, destabilized the empire's northern territories. These factors, combined with the decline of Oyo's military and political institutions, led to the empire's gradual collapse in the early 19th century.

Despite its eventual decline, the Oyo Empire left a lasting legacy on the history and culture of the Yoruba people and continues to be remembered as one of the most significant empires in West African history.

EVALUATION: 1. Describe the rise and growth of the Old Oyo Empire.

2. Discuss the economic prosperity of the oyo kingdom
3. Briefly explain how the old Oyo declined and finally collapse.

CLASSWORK: As in evaluation

CONCLUSION: The teacher commends the students positively