Denkyira

Origins

Denkyira emerged in the early 17th century in the forest south-west of present-day Kumasi, among Akan clans that had moved from the area of Adansi. Controlling rich goldfields and routes to the coastal forts, it conquered neighbouring states, including Adansi, and grew into the leading power of the central Akan forest.

Rule and society

Under Boa Amponsem in the late 17th century, Denkyira took tribute from many Akan states, including the young Asante chiefdoms, and held the Elmina Note, a rent paid by the Dutch at Elmina. Its wealth came from gold mining and trade in gold and slaves with the Dutch Gold Coast.

Decline and legacy

Denkyira's demands provoked revolt. In 1701 Osei Tutu of Asante defeated and killed King Ntim Gyakari at Feyiase, and Denkyira became tributary to the Ashanti Empire. It survives as a traditional area in Ghana's Central Region.