Lecture Notes: Colonization of Ghana

Introduction

• Lecture by Home Team on African history, culture, and worldview.
• Focus on how Ghana was colonized.
• Discussion includes insights into European interactions, treaties, and resistance efforts by local groups.
• Support options via Patreon and Afrographics with links provided.

Early European Contact

• Europeans in contact with Ghana since the late 15th century.
• Actual colonization began in the 1830s under George Maclean.
• 1874: Britain defeated the Ashanti and created a colony and protectorate south of Pra-Ofen confluence.

Phases of Colonization

1. 1875 to 1890
   • Britain annexed coastal areas and inland regions.
   • Response to German annexation of Togo in 1884.
   • Treaties with Ewe states and agreements with Germany.
2. 1890 to 1901
   • Treaty dividing Ewe land between Britain and Germany.
   • Neutral zone split, affecting the Kingdom of Dagomba.
   • British hesitance with Ashanti until 1889 due to French expansion concerns.

Key Treaties and Boundaries

• Anglo-German treaties (1885, 1890) defined eastern boundaries.
• Anglo-French treaties (1889, 1898) defined northern and western boundaries.

Colonization of Ashanti

• Britain's attempts to colonize Ashanti initially rejected.
• 1895: British invaded Ashanti fearing French alliances.
• King Prempeh attempted diplomacy, later exiled.

Resistance and Rebellion

• Continuous local resistance to British colonization.
• Anlow rebellion, with attacks on British forces and facilities.
• 1900 Ashanti Rebellion or War of the Golden Stool led by Yaa Asantewaa.
• British complete colonization in 1901.

Local Movements and Societies

• Traditional rulers and educated elites led movements against colonial measures.
• Strategies included peaceful protests, campaigns, and petitions.
• Societies like the Fante Confederation and Aborigines Rights Protection Society demanded representation and opposed various colonial policies.

Conclusion

• Despite colonization, the Ashanti maintained aspects of sovereignty until Ghana's independence.
• Encouragement to support continued educational content production.

Closing Remarks

• Emphasis on self-knowledge and honoring ancestors.