The Realism of Black Panther's Female Soldiers: Dora Milaje and African Warrior Tribes

When discussing the portrayal of female soldiers in the film Black Panther, it is fascinating to explore the real-world inspiration behind these characters. The Dora Milaje, an elite group of female soldiers serving as both bodyguards and protectors of the nation, are a prime example of the rich history of African warrior tribes.

Historical Roots of the Dora Milaje

Christopher Priest, the writer who introduced the Dora Milaje in the comic books, described them as 'six feet tall and not quite legal.' This characterization hints at the physical, if not legal, prowess of these women. Interestingly, in Black Panther, the language spoken exclusively to the Dora Milaje by the king T'Challa was Hausa, a language predominantly spoken in Nigeria and Benin. Therein lies another layer of inspiration: the Mino of Dahomey, a real corps of professional female soldiers, who were also trained to serve as protectors and potential wives.

Realism in Warfare

When discussing the realism of a group of women being effective fighters, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential for achieving this in both historical and modern contexts. Moving beyond linguistic parallels, the question of the feasibility of female soldiers in a nation like Wakanda must be addressed. While it is a challenging task given the era of technologically advanced weaponry such as laser guns and spaceships, it is still possible to have highly skilled female warriors.

For a nation like Wakanda, where advanced technology coexists with a rich cultural heritage, the training and selection of female soldiers would require a rigorous process. This process could involve early childhood training, dedicated martial arts and weapons skills, and a commitment to physical fitness. While fertility might indeed be affected, the dedication to serving their nation could be a driving force.

Real-Life Examples and Superhero Accuracy

The inspiration for the Dora Milaje can be traced back to the historical Female Soldiers of Dahomey, a real corps of professional female soldiers who served the king of Dahomey. Their existence as an elite force and their legendary fighting skills are a testament to the verisimilitude of female soldiers in historical contexts. The film The Woman King, which is based on these women, further underscores the rich history of such warrior tribes.

It is important to note that the inclusion of the Dora Milaje in Black Panther is more realistic than almost any other part of the movie. The community of women who form the Dora Milaje are depicted as tall, armored, muscular, and intimidating. Their physical attributes and intimidating presence are a testament to the potential of skilled female warriors. In-universe, the Milaje are likely handpicked from an early age, spending their entire lives training in martial arts and weaponry. Height and strength also factor in, which may explain why the Milaje seem to stand a head taller than most Wakandans.

Conclusion

The portrayal of the Dora Milaje in Black Panther draws upon the rich historical legacy of African warrior tribes, particularly the Mino of Dahomey. While the inclusion of such a powerful and skilled female force may challenge contemporary perceptions of warfare, it adds depth and authenticity to the story. The Dora Milaje, like any well-trained and dedicated warrior force, offer a glimpse into the potential reality of female soldiers in a nation steeped in cultural and technological prowess.