The Ashanti, also known as Asante, are a major ethnic group within Ghana, West Africa, renowned for their rich history, vibrant culture, and powerful kingdom. Their kingdom, centered in Kumasi, flourished from the 17th century onwards, controlling significant trade routes and resources, notably gold. Ashanti society is matrilineal, with lineage and inheritance traced through the female line. They are known for their intricate Kente cloth weaving, elaborate gold jewelry, and complex political structures, including a powerful king (Asantehene) who remains a significant figurehead today. Their resistance against British colonial rule in the 19th and 20th centuries solidified their place in history as a proud and resilient people.
