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Ghana
Ashanti gold kingdom; first sub-Saharan African colony to gain independence (1957).
Overview
The Ashanti Empire (1670 – 1902) built a rich gold state that resisted British encroachment for decades. Ghana's 1957 independence under Nkrumah heralded African decolonization.
Basic Information
CapitalAccra
Population34 million
Area238,533 km²
CurrencyGhanaian cedi (GHS)
LanguagesEnglish, Akan
RegionSub-Saharan Africa
History Timeline
- c. 1670Ashanti Empire founded
- 1874 – 1902Anglo-Ashanti wars
- 1957Independence under Nkrumah
Ancient Peoples
- Akan
- Ga
- Ewe
Ancient Kingdoms
- Ashanti Empire
- Denkyira
Empires
- Ashanti Empire
- British Gold Coast
Religions
- Christianity
- Islam
- Traditional religions
Culture
Kente cloth, Adinkra symbols, highlife music.
Language
English official; Akan and Ga widespread.
Important Battles
- War of the Golden Stool1900
Ashanti resistance to British
Historical Figures
Osei Tutu
c. 1695 – 1717
Founder of Ashanti
Kwame Nkrumah
1957 – 1966
Pan-African leader
Archaeological Sites
- Elmina Castle
- Cape Coast Castle
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Forts and Castles of Volta, Greater Accra, Central and Western Regions
- Asante Traditional Buildings
Dynasties
- Ashanti Asantehene line
Colonial Period
British Gold Coast 1874 – 1957.
Modern History
Presidential republic; stable West African democracy.