Ghana has been referred to as a weathervane for the rest of the African continent. While it often pointed in the opposite direction its inhabitants wished for, its record of political independence is still positive. Unfortunately, it also has a record of undermined democracy at home, a slanted nonalignment policy abroad, and a ruined economy. These factors led to its first military coup, which almost came as a relief...until military coups became a habit. Fortunately, over the past decade or so there has been a distinct turnaround. Democracy is clearly taking root, the economy is steadily improving, and Ghana is increasingly gaining respect abroad. The third edition of this work traces the history of Ghana from its beginning period that preceded colonization, to the seemingly interminable epoch of British colonization, and finally to the past half century when Ghana regained its independence. This is accomplished through a detailed chronology, which traces the country's major events, and an introduction that puts them in a broader context. The book's core is the several hundred cross-referenced dictionary entries on significant persons, places and events. For those who want to learn more, the extensive bibliography provides a reliable means.

Author Biography

David Owusu-Ansah is Professor of History at James Madison University. He is past president of the Ghana Studies Council (a professional affiliate organization of the African Studies Association), and author of several essays on Ghana including his work on the history of Islam in Ghana.