Ghana Independence Movements

Flashcards about Ghana Independence Movement.

Nationalism and Political Ideology

The importance of nationalism and political ideology in the development of independence movements.

Religion, Race, and Socioeconomic Factors

The significance of religion, race, and socioeconomic factors in shaping independence movements.

WWII's Impact on Ghanaian Independence

World War 2 was a catalyst because Ghanaian soldiers returning home realized their equality and potential superiority to white people, and they were denied promised benefits, unlike European soldiers, leading to economic hardship and resentment.

Kwame Nkrumah

A key leader in Ghana's independence, employing methods like boycotts, "positive action," and promoting pan-Africanism.

WWII's impact

World War Two provided Ghanaian veterans with leadership and military skills that were crucial for the independence movement.

Economic Impact of War

War drained Ghana's resources, intensifying the desire for independence.

External Factors

Tensions against colonization were growing across Africa. WWII demonstrated the fight against colonization and potential leniency from colonizers due to depleted resources.

Internal Unity

Ghanaians displayed greater unity and independence compared to other African nations.

Influence of Foreign Education

Nkrumah gained education and insights into other movements abroad, which he applied to Ghana's independence efforts.

Methods of Achieving Independence

The use of boycotts against British goods, influencing store owners, and positive action

Challenges Post-Independence

Ghana faced challenges such as an AIDS epidemic, poor education rates (80% illiteracy post-independence), and low prices for crops like cocoa, angering farmers.

Challenges: political problems

Political issues, ethnic, racial, and separatist movements.

Challenges: social, cultural, and economic

Social, cultural, and economic challenges.

Education Challenges and Responses

Attempting to continue the European style of schools that were active during Colonial rule, and education was not accessible to everyone, it was very expensive.