15 story facts about the Ashanti Kingdom
The Ashanti Kingdom (also known as Asante) was one of the most prolific Africa has ever seen and reigned over a large part of present-day Ghana all the way down to the Ivory Coast for over 300 years. While the kingdom eventually fell apart in 1957, many of the traditions still live on. In fact, the Ashanti monarchy still continues (in a much smaller form) inside Ghana. From its origins, to its long history, to its rich culture, here are 10 things you didn’t know about the Ashanti Kingdom.
1. Origins in the 1600s: The Ashanti Kingdom was founded by the Akan people in the 1670s when Osei Tutu united various Akan clans.
2. Theocracy: The Ashanti Kingdom was ruled based on religious laws, viewing crimes as sins, with punishments such as banishment.
3. The Golden Stool: The Golden Stool is considered sacred, housing the spirit of the Ashanti nation. No one is allowed to sit on it.
4. Resistance Against the British: The Ashanti fought four wars against the British over nearly a century, showing remarkable resistance.
5. Fighting Other Kingdoms: Besides the British, the Ashanti fought neighboring states such as the Fante, Akim, and Akwapim, often in wars over resources like the Golden Stool.
6. Massive Army: The Ashanti military peaked at 200,000 soldiers, one of the largest African armies, often overwhelming opponents with its size.
7. Involvement in the Slave Trade: The Ashanti Kingdom played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade, with forts along the coast facilitating European involvement.
8. Communication Through Drums: The Ashanti developed a unique form of communication using talking drums to transmit messages across vast distances.
9. Wealth from Gold: The Ashanti Kingdom was rich due to its extensive gold reserves, trading the precious metal with European merchants for centuries.
10. Largest Tribe in Ghana Today: The Ashanti people remain the largest ethnic group in Ghana, with around one million members, centered in Kumasi.
11. Fierce Fighters: The Ashanti were known for their courage in battle, reflected in their motto: “If I go forward I die. If I go backward I die. Better go forward and die.”
12. Special Handshake: The Ashanti have a unique handshake using the left hand, symbolizing trust by lowering their shield.
13. Kente Cloth for Special Occasions: Kente cloth, a vibrant woven fabric, is worn during festivals, religious rituals, marriages, and funerals.
14. Day Names: Ashanti children are given names based on the day of the week they were born. For instance, a boy born on Saturday is called Kwame, and a girl Ama.
15. Ashanti Monarchy Survives: While the kingdom officially dissolved in 1957, the Ashanti monarchy continues in a smaller form, with kings still playing ceremonial roles in Ghana today.
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