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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:Re-Evaluating the 'Colonization' of Akyem Abuakwa: Amoako Atta, the Basel Mission, and the Gold Coast Courts, 1867-1887
Author:Getz, Trevor R.ISNI
Year:2003
Periodical:Ghana Studies
Volume:6
Pages:163-180
Language:English
Geographic terms:Ghana
Great Britain
Subjects:missions
colonialism
Akim polity
History and Exploration
Law, Human Rights and Violence
Religion and Witchcraft
Peoples of Africa (Ethnic Groups)
Abstract:Colonialism looms large in Ghana's history, yet it remains unclear what constitutes the moment of 'colonization'. In contrast to the coastal Gold Coast States, the relationship between Britain and interior States such as Akyem Abuakwa after the 1873-1874 war against Asante continued to be one of alliance rather than subjugation. This paper looks at the roles of 'Okyeman' (the State of Akyem Abuakwa) indigenous bodies and agents of the Basel Mission in driving the changing relationship between the British administrators and the Paramount Chief of Akyem Abuakwa, 'Okyenhene' ('king') Amoako Atta I, in the period 1867-1887. A struggle over slavery between the mission and the royal court intensified following the establishment of the Gold Coast Protectorate in 1874, centring on the complex issue of the emancipation of the Protectorate's slaves. The paper shows that Akyem Abuakwa lost its sovereignty not through force or treaty, but through the transfer of legal authority, bit by bit, from the politico-religious personages and institutions of the 'Okyeman' State to the British colonial administration in Accra and its representatives. Notes, ref. [ASC Leiden abstract]
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