The Ibadan Conference of 1855: diplomacy and conflict resolution in mid-nineteenth century Yorubaland

Studies on the nineteenth century Yoruba wars have increased in quality and quantity since the 1960s. Nevertheless, there are still misconceptions, neglected themes and undue emphasis on some aspects of the war. This paper focuses on the place of diplomacy in nineteenth century Yoruba wars and power politics with particular reference to a neglected peace conference held at Ibadan in November 1855 to find a resolution to war and political crises. The first section is a conceptual discussion on diplomacy in nineteenth century Yorubaland. The second is on the specific example of how diplomacy was employed and manipulated to achieve peace. – Map, notes, sum. in French, Eng., and German.