Let's take a short trip using stories instead of a car or an airplane. Our destination is Ghana in West Africa. The Ashanti people are found there. They have a reputation for having bold tales, golden crowns, and colourful clothing that speaks for itself. All set to meet them?
One of the most intriguing ethnic groups in Africa is the Ashanti, also called the Asante, whose rich artistic heritage, history, and customs have inspired generations. Here are some fun facts about the Ashanti tribe for kids, along with the significance of their famous kente cloth!
Who Are the Ashanti?
Ghana, West Africa, is the primary home of the Ashanti people. A leader by the name of Osei Tutu brought together a number of small clans to establish the strong Ashanti kingdom in the 1670s, marking the beginning of their story. He established himself as the first Asantehene (king), and Kumasi, his capital, soon became a thriving hub of culture and the arts. Rich from the trade in gold and other treasures, the Ashanti kings ruled over a vast empire. The Ashanti people maintained their strong spirit in the face of British colonization in the 19th century, and their customs are still practiced today.
Beyond Kings: The Ashanti Royalty
In addition to being a ruler, the king, or Asantehene, is also a cultural figure. The Golden Stool is one of the most significant symbols; it is thought to have come down from the sky. Even the king does not sit on this stool because it is so sacred. It stands for the Ashanti people's unity and spirit. Generation after generation has been taught the value of community, bravery, and respect through these African royalty tales.
The Art of Storytelling
Elders and unique storytellers known as griots told stories out loud before the invention of books and the internet. Children learned about their ancestors, morals, and the world around them from these storytellers, who preserved history. The Ashanti people enjoy telling stories. Their stories are full of songs, proverbs, and teachings that teach children about right and wrong, and they are frequently told in Twi, their expressive language.
Kente Cloth: The Masterwork of the Ashanti
If you have ever seen an African fabric with a bright, geometric pattern, it was most likely kente cloth! The Ashanti are well known for creating this exquisite and profoundly symbolic fabric. "Kente" means "basket," and it gets its name from the way it is woven. Every pattern and colour has a meaning; for example, red represents sacrifice, blue represents peace, green represents growth, yellow represents wealth, and gold represents royalty. Kente isn't just for fashion; it's worn by royalty, on special occasions, and even to adorn significant locations like the UN and Ghana's Parliament House.
Women wrap smaller kente cloths around their bodies like the baby girl in the above photo, while men drape large kente cloths over one shoulder like the child in the above photo. High-status women occasionally dress in kente just like men do. Used for everything from drum wrappers to umbrella covers, kente is a true symbol of Ashanti pride and creativity.
The Importance of Teaching African Culture to Children
Children learn about the Ashanti through story, colour, and pride, as well as through books, which helps them appreciate African culture and the importance of customs that have been passed down through the generations. It’s not history in a museum. It is an active, dynamic culture. And it’s fun to learn.
Children can learn about the Ashanti tribe's origins or simply see a different side of the world with these Ashanti tribe facts for kids.
Have you ever seen kente cloth in person or heard an African tale? What is the Ashanti tradition that most interests you? Leave a comment below with your thoughts, and together, let's preserve the storytelling tradition!
