Ethnos

Fon

Fon is a major West African ethnic and linguistic group in the country of Benin or Dahomey.

There are about 40 different ethnic groups living in Benin, the largest being the Fon who account for about 49% of Benin's population.

It is believed that Vodun (or "Voodoo", as it is commonly known") originated in Benin and was introduced to Brazil, the Caribbean Islands, and parts of North America by slaves taken from this particular area of the Slave Coast. The indigenous religion of Benin, it is practiced by about 70% of the population. Since 1992 Vodun has been recognized as one of Benin's official religions, and a National Vodun Holiday is celebrated on January 10. ***