Ghana Leading to African Independence

The Colonial Years An ethnic group called the Akan formed the Asante Kingdom in the Gold Coast. This kingdom tried to stop the British takeover. In 1874, the British succeeded in colonizing the Gold Coast.

Effects of British Control British sent cocoa grown in Gold Coast to factories in Britain to make chocolate. Timber and gold were exported to Britain as well. The growing of cash crops led to problems such as, having to import food.

Effects…continued British built schools run by missionaries. Traditional religions began to be replaced by Christianity.

Moving Toward Independence In the 1900’s African colonies wanted independence. Europeans resisted this idea and claimed African countries were not ready to govern themselves. Kwame Nkrumah challenged this belief. He convinced the people to demand independence.

Independence Achieved In 1957, Great Britain granted the Gold Coast sovereignty. Nkrumah became the first president of the new country (Ghana). Ghana was the first West African colony to gain independence.

Independence…continued Nine years later, Nkrumah was removed from power by a coup d’état. Nkrumah borrowed money to improve the country (conference center, superhighway, and dam). The price of cocoa fell, and Ghana could not repay its debt.