ASANTE EMPIRE
The Asante Empire was an Akan empire and kingdom from 1701 to 1957, in what is now modern-day Ghana. It expanded from Ashanti to include the Brong-Ahafo Region, Central Region, Eastern Region, Greater Accra Region and Western Region of present-day Ghana. The empire was founded by Obiri Yeboa who was later succeeded by Osei Tutu.
Starting in the late 17th century, the Ashanti king Osei Tutu (c. 1695 – 1717) and his adviser Okomfo Anokye established the Ashanti Kingdom, with the Golden Stool of Asante as a sole unifying symbol.
The people of Asante were Akan ruled by the Oyuko clan. The capital city of Asante or Ashanti was Kumasi. The ruler of Asante was known as Asantehene.
FACTORS FOR THE RISE OF ASANTE
1. Agricultural activities
2. Development of local industries
3. Asante had a strong army which always defended the empire against enemies.
4. For example; In 1701, the Ashanti army conquered Denkyira, giving the Ashanti access to the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic Ocean coastal trade with Europeans, notably the Dutch
5. Presence of capable rulers e.g. Osei Tutu
6. Well organized political system
7. Trans-Atlantic slave trade.
DECLINE - The state declined after the arrival of Europeans.
