Benin is now perceived of as a model of democracy in Africa because it has successfully established a democratic political system based on consensus and regular and fair elections and it continues to improve its electoral and parliamentary systems. Since its democracy it has taken important steps towards laying the foundation for the rule of law by establishing stable political institutions that can withstand the test of time. It has also engaged in an important legal institutional and regulatory reform to establish a more favorable environment for private initiative.The fourth edition of Historical Dictionary of Benin covers its history through a chronology an introductory essay and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 900 crossreferenced entries on important personalities politics economy foreign relations religion and culture. This book is an excellent access point for students researchers and anyone wanting to know more about Benin.