I BELONG TO YOU

HISTORY OF ASHANTI

2005-12-05T12:12:00.000-08:00

A critic may ask, "Why must I study Asante history?" In response, there are a dozen reasons but for our instant purpose a few will suffice. One simple reason is due to the profusion of literature on the subject matter in universities, archives and public libraries in the United States and other parts of the world.
Among others, the pre independence history of Ghana (Gold Coast) 1695-1900 was dominated by the history of Asante's hegemony and the attempts by Britain to subdue its military prowess. Asante contributions to Africa and the world in the area of art, literature and culture such as Kente, gold-weights and Kweku Ananse folklore and the Adinkra symbols are so invaluable that they should be studied and preserved by all of us regardless of race, nationality or ethnicity. Epistemologically speaking, one may ask as to why one must study Russian, American, English or history?
The understanding of such comparative historic processes help one not only to know of his glorious past but also gives one the psychological stimuli to develop as a full person and become better citizens where ever one may reside. Against this backdrop, here is a bird's eye view of he history of Asante, its impact on the development of Asante personality and Ghana as a whole.
The Asantes of Ghana speak Asante, a dialect of the Twi language, and they belong to the Akan who make up about two thirds of the population of Ghana's of 18 million people. "Ashanti"- the anglicized version of Asante or Asantefuo is sometimes used to refer to the land or people who originally migrated from the north-western part of the Niger River in West Africa after the fall of the old Ghana Empire in 14 A.D. The immigrants settled in the central part of modern day Ghana and built between the 16th and 18th centuries, and built a powerful kingdom.
The emergence of the Asante kingdom was a tribute to two men, Opemsuo Osei Tutu 1(1695-1731) and his mystic friend and sage, Okomfo Anokye, whose vision, remarkable prowess and geniuses founded a kingdom that rivaled the territorial borders of the old Ghana empire.The legend has it that in order to win their independence from Denkyira, then a powerful state, Osei Tutu (then Kumasihene) and his friend, Okomfo Anokye called a meeting of all the clan heads of each of the Asante settlements to Kumasi. These settlements included Juaben, Nsuta, Mampong, Bekwai, Kokofu and Esumeja.
During the meeting Okomfo Anokye commanded a Golden Stool (Asikadwa) Kofi) from the heavens, which landed on the laps of Osei Tutu. Okomfo Anokye declared the stool to be symbol of the new Asante union (Asanteman)in unity and spirit (sunsum). Each chief then swore allegiance to the Golden Stool and to Osei Tutu as the Asantehene (King of Asante), by holding a golden sword to the Golden Stool. Subsequently the new Asante union proceeded to inflict a terrible defeat on Denkyira, the enemy state. According to etymologist, Asante is a derivation of "Osa -nti) or warlike. The primary purpose of the Asante union was to fight against the rule and domination of the King of Denkyira.
Asante kingdom ranks among the few monarchical states in the world, with a long and sustained system of governance. There have been 16 kings since its formation, from Opemsuo Nana Osei Tutu 1(1695-1731) to our present king Otumfuo Osei Tutu 11(2000). Even though history gives all the credit for the founding of Asante Nation or Kingdom to King Osei Tutu I,the real empire builder was Katakyie Opoku Ware 1(1731-1742). He prevented the break up of the union after the debacle of the Asante army at River Pra in Akyem. As the successor of Nana Osei Tutu, Otumfuo Opoku Ware I, among his many accomplishments, was his institution of the Great Oath (Ntamkesie Miensa, Kromantse, ne Memenda) into Asante jurisprudence.
The oath is solemnly invoked to mark the defeat and death of Nana Ose Tutu at Kromantse near Pra River during the war against Akyem. At the time of Opoku Ware I's death in 1742 the Asante empire extended to the kingdoms of Fante, Akyem Akuapem, Aowin, Denkyira, Sefwi, Wassa, Assin Gonja, Ga-Adangbe, Kwawu, Bono, Ahafo and parts of Togo.Other artistic contribution of Otumfuo Opoku Ware was the introduction of the famous Asante traditional ballet-like dance Adowa and music.
Between 1750 and 1814 the inaction of some of the Asante kings diminished some of the territorial holdings of the empire. This was due in part to the residents administration, who also happened to be the same defeated kings, neglect in administering those possessions and those, partly due to successful rebellions, sometimes promoted by British intrigue, in some of those states which waged war against Asante rule.
The cumulative effect of Asante's hegemony, or insurance against the threat of Asante domination in the coastal regions of Ghana was the signing of a treaty, the "Bond of 1844" between the British and most of the coastal chiefs whereby their lands were ceded to the British crown, and their people brought under British protection for 100 years. It took nine wars and a period of 80 years (1823-901) before the British could subdue the Asante militarily.
In 1895 the Asantes were overwhelmed by a better trained military, most of them brought all the way from West Indies and Hausaland (Northern Nigeria), and equipped with better and superior fire power such as cannons and rockets. Asantehene Nana Agyeman Prempeh 1(1822-1932), seeing the imminent defeat of the Asante army with the resulting possibility of the capture of the Golden Stool, surrendered himself and was exiled to the Seychelles Island with a retinue of other chiefs, and later, the legendary woman Yaa Asantewaa, Queen mother of Ejisu. Notwithstanding, the British Governor Hodgson, on a visit to Kumasi in 1900 demanded to sit on the Golden Stool as an honor to Queen Victoria. Incensed that such gesture would be sacrilegious to the Stool, Asantefuo, led by Yaa Asantewaa, Queen mother of Ejisu led an insurrection against the British
in consequence of which Kumasi was burnt to the ground. Asante lost its military power and political sovereignty and became a British protectorate. The war of 1900, however gave Asantes time to make a clone of the Golden Stool which was taken by the British after the war instead of the original Golden Stool.
In 1902 Asante was divided into four administrative districts: Mampong- Kumasi, Ashanti-Akim, Bekwai, Sunyani and Wenchi. Each district managed its own affairs and was headed by a District Commissioner which in turn reported to the Regional Commissioner in Kumasi. Twenty eight years after the exile of Nana Agyeman Prempeh
I, the British allowed him to return as Kumaishene. However, in 1938, the Asante Sante Union was restored and Otumfuo Osei Agyeman Premph 11(1932-1970) was recognized as the Asantehene. In 1945 Asante became formally part of the Gold Coast colony and elected its first two representative to the Colony's Legislative Council in 1946.
In 1957 Gold Coast achieved independence form Britain and became Ghana. The North-western part of Asante, Wenchi, Sunyani and part of Kumasi district were carved out to be the Brong-Aahafo region of Ghana in 1960. In spite of the Ghana's post independence tumultuous history, Asantefuo as Ghanians, are playing their part as members of “pluralistic society" in the socio-economic development of their country. Asantes can be found everywhere in Ghana as civil servants, merchants, businessmen and women civil servants, bankers, lawyers, engineers, physicians, etc.
The term Asante transcends geographic expression. It connotes a state of mind of people who cherish their glorious part and culture and look forward to the future with optimism. In the words of one perceptive foreign writer: "What the Ashanti have left today are the basic things that have enabled them to survive and to call themselves as great people - now numbering over 2 million strong. They have their won language and literature, their religion and local government. They are still hard working, independent farmers, craftsmen and traders. To such people the future is bound to be kind".

Attractions & Excursions In The Ashanti RegionKumasi and the Asante heritage;Kumasi is the capital of the Asante kingdom and the local highlights are: · Manhyia Palace Museum· Centre for National Culture· The Prempeh II Jubilee Museum· Kumasi Fort and Military Museum· Okomto Anokye Sword· The Akwasidae Ceremony· Kejetia Market· Kumasi Zoo· Traditional Street Sculptures· University of Science and Technology
The Crafts of the AsanteThe craft villages surrounding Kumasi include:· Bonwire - 18km NE of Kumasi - Kente weaving· Pankronu - 3km N of Kumasi - pottery· Ahwiaa - 6 km N of Kumasi - wood carvings· Ntonsu - Adinkra cloth making· Asuofia/Asamang - Barakese Road - Breadmaking· Ampabame Krofrom - 10km from Ahodwo - Brass SmithsGoldsmiths and Silversmiths can be seen in Kumasi.
The National Attractions ofAshanti The Ashanti Region is a great area in which to explore unspoilt national attractions. For birds and butterflies the forests are the place to go, while wildlife can be spotted around the lakes and in the nature reserves. The following locations are great for trekking, or just rewarding forest walks:· Lake Bosomtwe - 35km 5 of Kumasi· Bobiri Forest Reserve - 35km SE of Kumasi· Owabi Bird Sanctuary - 23km NW of Kumasi· Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary - 50km from Kumasi· Digya National Park - From Kumawu to Atebubu· Atwia Rock Formations - 40km from Kumasi· Mframabuom Caves - Kwamang, 55km from Kumasi
Obuasi Gold MinesFor details of visits to the Ashanti gold Mine - available on Tuesdays and Thursdays - contact the P.R. Manager on 0582-194).
The Cultural Attractions of the AsanteThe traditional culture of the people is one of the attractions of the Ashanti Region. Important illustrations can be discovered at:· Asantemanso Village· KumawuTown· Kentinkronu Shrine· Adarko Jachie Shrine· Ejisu Besease Shrine· Statues of Kumasi· Patakro Shrine· Atuokosua Shrine..

HISTORY OF GHANA

2005-11-30T02:32:00.000-08:00

Who can visit Ghana and return home unmoved by the dramatic history, rich culture and bustling energy of this emerging West African nation?
Named after the medieval Ghana Empire of West Africa (the title of the kings who ruled the kingdom), the original name of the empire was Wagadugu.
Geographically, the old Ghana is 500 miles north of the present Ghana, and occupied the area between the Senegal and Niger rivers. Some inhabitants of present Ghana had ancestors linked with the medieval Ghana. Before March 1957, Ghana was called the Gold Coast. The Portuguese who came to Ghana in the 15th Century found so much gold between the rivers Ankobra and the Volta that they named the place Mina - meaning Mine. The Gold Coast was later colonized by the English. Similarily, the French, equally impressed by the trinkets worn by the coastal people, named The Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.
The British set out to make the Gold Coast a showcase African nation, allowing few Europeans to settle or even be employed there. Cocoa exports became the backbone of the economy, followed by gold, timber, manganese, bauxite and diamonds. By WWI, the Gold Coast was the most prosperous colony in Africa, with the best schools and civil service, a cadre of enlightened lawyers and a thriving press. Still, anti-British sentiments ran deep. Independence finally came in 1957, making Ghana - the name chosen by Nkrumah after the first great empire in West Africa - the first black African nation to win freedom from its colonizers.

Akan, a "pure" heritage, is one of the most ancient cultures in Africa. These African people live predominately in the countries of Ghana and Ivory Coast with many descendants now living in Europe and the USA.
Before the 13th century, the Akan peoples (ancestors of the Asante Tribe) migrated from other parts of Africa into the forest belt of present-day Ghana. Family bands established small states in the hilly country in the neighborhood of modern Kumasi.
This early migration was likely related to the opening of trade routes established to move gold throughout the region. It was not until the end of the 17th century, however, that the grand Asante Kingdom emerged in the central forest region of Ghana, when several small states united under the Chief of Kumasi.
Much of what is known about ancient Akan customs was passed on in oral histories, which have survived for several hundred years. Many of the objects that have been recovered through archaeological excavations are still produced in modified form among contemporary Akan peoples. In 1957, after a period of internal self-government, the Gold Coast became the first African colony to achieve independence under the charismatic leadership of Kwame Nkrumah.
The Asante are part of the Akan tribes, who speak various dialects of Twi. The language is very rich in proverbs, the use of which is taken to be a sign of wisdom. Euphemisms are very common, especially about events connected with death. Rather than say "the King has died", one would say "a mighty tree has fallen". Proverbs are often used to express ideas indirectly as can be seen from the following: "Obi mfa ne nsa benkum nkyere n'agya amanfo" - this is literally: "Do not point to the ruins of your father's house with your left hand," which means: "Do not scorn culture inherited from your forefathers."
Today, the village is a social as well as an economic unit. Music is a large part of everyday life. There are three main types of music: ethnic or traditional music, normally played during festivals and at funerals; "highlife" music, which is a blend of traditional and "imported" music; and choral music, which is performed in concert halls, churches, schools and colleges.
All community members, young and old, participate in the major ceremonies, the most frequent of which are funeral celebrations which typically last several days. Attendance at funerals is normally expected from everyone in the village and expenditure on funerals is a substantial part of the household budget. The Ancestors (Nananom), senior family members that are no longer living, remain active, supporting the well-being of the family by advising, guiding and protecting their spiritual charges, customs and traditions. For more information about Ghanaian people, customs and language, see these resources.

Modern Ghana comprises the former British colony of the Gold Coast and the former mandated territory of British Togoland. Bordered by the Côte d'Ivoire on the west, Burkina Faso on the north, and Togo on the east, the country is on West Africa's Gulf of Guinea only a few degrees north of the Equator.A tropical rain forest belt, broken by heavily forested hills and many streams and rivers, extends northward from the shore, near the Cote d'Ivoire frontier. This area, known as the "Ashanti," produces most of the country's cocoa, minerals, and timber. North of this region, the land is covered by low bush, savanna, and grassy plains. Half of the country lies less than 152 meters (500 ft.) above sea level, and the highest point is 883 meters (2,900 ft.). The 537-kilometer (334-mi.) coastline is mostly a low, sandy shore backed by plains and scrub and intersected by several rivers and streams.
The climate is tropical. The eastern coastal belt is warm and comparatively dry; the southwest corner, hot and humid; and the north, hot and dry. There are two distinct rainy seasons in the south-May-June and August-September; in the north, the rainy seasons tend to merge. A dry, northeasterly wind, the Harmattan, blows in January and February. Annual rainfall in the coastal zone averages 83 centimeters (33 in.).
The manmade Volta Lake extends from the Akosombo Dam in southeastern Ghana to the town of Yapei, 520 kilometers (325 mi.) to the north. The lake generates electricity, provides inland transportation, and is a potentially valuable resource for irrigation and fish farming.

Akwaaba! is the greeting to welcome you to Ghana -- a country of 18 million people and over 60 ethnic groups (and homeland of U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan).Nearly half of the society decended from the Akans, a tribe which includes the famous Ashanti people.
The Ashanti tribe is the largest tribe in Ghana, and one of the few matrilineal societies in West Africa. Ashanti kings retained figurehead status after colonization, and even today great pride in the Ashanti King lives on in the tradition of the Golden Stool.
The Ashanti are noted for their expertise in a variety of specialized crafts. These include weaving, wood carving, ceramics, the reknown kente cloth and metallurgy. Of these crafts, only pottery-making is primarily a female activity; the others are restricted to male specialists. Even in the case of pottery-making, only men are allowed to fashion pots or pipes.
The Ga-Adangbe people inhabit the Accra Plains. The modern Adangbe include the people of Shai, La, Ningo, Kpone, Osudoku, Krobo, Gbugble, and Ada, who speak different dialects. The Ga also include the Ga-Mashie groups occupying neighborhoods in the central part of Accra, and other Gaspeakers who migrated from Akwamu, Anecho in Togo, Akwapim, and surrounding areas.
The Guan are believed to have begun to migrate from the Mossi region of modern Burkina around A.D. 1000. Moving gradually through the Volta valley in a southerly direction, they created settlements along the Black Volta, throughout the Afram Plains, in the Volta Gorge, and in the Akwapim Hills before moving farther south onto the coastal plains. Most families in Ghana are employed in subsistence agriculture, and those living along the coast are fishermen.
There are 52 major languages and hundreds of dialects in Ghana, although English is primarily spoken. Each language is very complex and adequate in its particular setting. Many Ghanaians speak many different languages, demonstrating a linguistic skill that is totally unknown to most Westerners.
"I really felt like I was a part of the life of Prampram by the time I left. When I walked to the school or the clinic to work, I was always followed by a parade of children hailing me with, "Buffalo! Buffalo!" (their word for White Person). Men working in fields or on buildings would stop to say, "Good morning, Madame." Women walking down the road with a baby on their backs and a pail of water, a load of firewood, or even a sewing machine on their heads would smile their shy smiles. The people seem so happy that it is easy to forget the realities of their lives. The whole experience made me even more grateful that I live where I do, but more aware, also, that "things" are just luxuries. The important thing is to take joy in your people and pride in your work, in Africa or America." - Diane Tappey, Whittier, Calif.
Africa in general and Ghana in particular place much emphasis on communal values like extended family, nuclear family, respect for the elderly, honoring traditional rulers like chiefs and elders, and the importance of dignity and proper social conduct. What one person does is seen as having impact on his entire family, social group and community; therefore, everyone is expected to be careful, respectful, dignified and observant in every public setting and in every aspect of life. Customs are passed on through the generations. For instance, parents still often name their children according to the day of the week on which they were born. Customary leaders (chiefs) have historical authority over tribal and family matters, and customary lands. Child naming, puberty initiations, marriage and death are marked by family ceremonies. Seasonal festivals bring a whole people or clan together in spectacular fashion.
The International Affairs Program at Skidmore College offers majors, minors, and interested students the opportunity to engage in a focused travel experience that combines study of a region before traveling there and reflection upon return. Destinations vary each year. To launch this program in Spring 2005, IA faculty have devised "Chocolate and Gold: Politics and Culture in Ghana, West Africa," a two-course (3 credits total) learning experience combining class work and readings on campus during the first part of the spring semester, a field trip with class work and lectures in Ghana, West Africa during spring break, and time for reflection and final presentations on campus after the journey.

West Africa has a unique history of connections with the Atlantic world, most importantly as a crucial regional player in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, but also in the biological exchange of old and new world plants, animals, peoples and diseases. As a result of its long involvement in the slave trade, West Africa was far more commercially integrated into the world market economy than other parts of continent, which helps to explain the rapid transition to other forms of commerce in the 19th century. Ghana’s history is unique for other reasons as well: The kingdom of Ashanti was one of the last to be completely conquered by Europeans (1901), and Ghanaian politicians like Kwame Nkrumah have historically been in the forefront of pan-African activity. Ghana’s importance has continued in the post-colonial period. It was the first sub-Saharan African country to have gained independence (1956), and it was one of the very first African countries to experience single-party rule and a military coup (1966), and one of the first to return to civilian rule (1969-72). Ghana is a classic example of a “collapsed state” that has had a successful economic recovery as a primary product exporter—under IMF and World Bank auspices, no less. And Ghana is one of the examples of an African country that is undergoing self-examination through a “truth commission” (2003). Ghana historically has hosted many international students, including Americans on educational programs, a testimony to its well-deserved reputation for safety.This course meets on campus as well as in, the West African country of Ghana, Friday March 12- Monday March 22, 2005. The instructors will schedule two separate meetings on Skidmore campus in February to discuss the logistics and the code of conduct for the travel experience and one follow-up meeting upon returning from Ghana (dates to be determined). March 12: Travel to GhanaMarch 13: Introduction to Ghana Culture and Society (Accra)March 14: Visit Lake Akosombo; view Akosombo Dam by boat; meet with representative from Volta River AuthorityMarch 15: Tour Accra; meet with faculty members from University of Ghana; tour campus; visit botanical gardenMarch 16: Visit cocoa plantation; traditional Ghanaian village; and sacred “monkey village”March 17: Visit National Museum-Nkrumah Mausoleum, Makola Market, National Center for Art and Culture, and W. E. B. Dubois CenterMarch 18: Travel to Cape Coast; visit slave castle-fishing village-slave museum on Cape CoastMarch 19: Travel to Kumasi (Ashanti kingdom’s capital); visit world heritage site: Ashanti Shrine and example of traditional palace architecture, Kings Palace Museum, National Center of Culture; visit Ashanti gold mineMarch 20: Visit Bonwire; take participants to buy cloth; Guest Lecture: Power and Art in Ghana, Professor Lisa Aronson, Skidmore College (on sabbatical research in Ghana during spring 2005); return to AccraMarch 21: Travel from Kumasi to AccraMarch 22: Return from Ghana (Accra-US.

International Affairs
Chocolate and Gold:
Politics and Culture in Ghana, West Africa
An IA Faculty-Led Travel Seminar to GhanaDr. Christopher Whann and Dr. Gerald ErchakMarch 12-22, 2005
The International Affairs Program at Skidmore College offers majors, minors, and interested students the opportunity to engage in a focused travel experience that combines study of a region before traveling there and reflection upon return. Destinations vary each year. To launch this program in Spring 2005, IA faculty have devised "Chocolate and Gold: Politics and Culture in Ghana, West Africa," a two-course (3 credits total) learning experience combining class work and readings on campus during the first part of the spring semester, a field trip with class work and lectures in Ghana, West Africa during spring break, and time for reflection and final presentations on campus after the journey.
TX 201B IA Regional Topics: Ghana (2 credits) is the on-campus segment. TX202 IA Faculty-Led Travel Seminar: Ghana (1 credit) is the travel segment of the experience. Students must be registered for TX 201B in order to qualify for the travel seminar TX 202.
Why Ghana?
West Africa has a unique history of connections with the Atlantic world, most importantly as a crucial regional player in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, but also in the biological exchange of old and new world plants, animals, peoples and diseases. As a result of its long involvement in the slave trade, West Africa was far more commercially integrated into the world market economy than other parts of continent, which helps to explain the rapid transition to other forms of commerce in the 19th century. Ghana’s history is unique for other reasons as well: The kingdom of Ashanti was one of the last to be completely conquered by Europeans (1901), and Ghanaian politicians like Kwame Nkrumah have historically been in the forefront of pan-African activity. Ghana’s importance has continued in the post-colonial period. It was the first sub-Saharan African country to have gained independence (1956), and it was one of the very first African countries to experience single-party rule and a military coup (1966), and one of the first to return to civilian rule (1969-72). Ghana is a classic example of a “collapsed state” that has had a successful economic recovery as a primary product exporter—under IMF and World Bank auspices, no less. And Ghana is one of the examples of an African country that is undergoing self-examination through a “truth commission” (2003). Ghana historically has hosted many international students, including Americans on educational programs, a testimony to its well-deserved reputation for safety.
Premilimary Course Schedule
Subject to change
This course meets on campus as well as in, the West African country of Ghana, Friday March 12- Monday March 22, 2005. The instructors will schedule two separate meetings on Skidmore campus in February to discuss the logistics and the code of conduct for the travel experience and one follow-up meeting upon returning from Ghana (dates to be determined). March 12: Travel to GhanaMarch 13: Introduction to Ghana Culture and Society (Accra)March 14: Visit Lake Akosombo; view Akosombo Dam by boat; meet with representative from Volta River AuthorityMarch 15: Tour Accra; meet with faculty members from University of Ghana; tour campus; visit botanical gardenMarch 16: Visit cocoa plantation; traditional Ghanaian village; and sacred “monkey village”March 17: Visit National Museum-Nkrumah Mausoleum, Makola Market, National Center for Art and Culture, and W. E. B. Dubois CenterMarch 18: Travel to Cape Coast; visit slave castle-fishing village-slave museum on Cape CoastMarch 19: Travel to Kumasi (Ashanti kingdom’s capital); visit world heritage site: Ashanti Shrine and example of traditional palace architecture, Kings Palace Museum, National Center of Culture; visit Ashanti gold mineMarch 20: Visit Bonwire; take participants to buy cloth; Guest Lecture: Power and Art in Ghana, Professor Lisa Aronson, Skidmore College (on sabbatical research in Ghana during spring 2005); return to AccraMarch 21: Travel from Kumasi to AccraMarch 22: Return from Ghana (Accra-US)
Note: As one might expect, West Africa is not to be confused with upstate New York. While Ghana is by all accounts a safe place to travel, Accra and Kumasi are large cities, and travelers should proceed with the normal care and good judgment that traveling overseas or in any large city require. A set of guidelines and a college-endorsed code of conduct will be distributed to students before travel. Students will be required to sign the code of conduct to assure that they are familiar with and agree to follow the rules.

Dr. Christopher Whann is a Lecturer in the Department of Government and an Academic Advisor at the University Without Walls. He holds a Ph.D. in Political Science and African Studies from the University of Wisconsin at Madison, where he studied Lesotho-South African relations during the apartheid period. He teaches Skidmore UWW and residential students in the areas of African studies, international affairs, political economy and environmental studies. His research focuses on the politics of development in poorer countries, comparative public policy, such as labor migration in the mining industry and the politics of water transfer projects.
Dr. Gerald Erchak is a Professor in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work. Gerald M. Erchak received his Ph.D. in social anthropology from Harvard University in 1976, the same year he joined the Skidmore faculty. Professor Erchak teaches courses in liberal studies, cultural anthropology, psychological anthropology, Sub-Saharan African cultures South Africa and race, and controversies in the scientific study of human sexuality. He is the author of The Anthropology of Self and Behavior (Rutgers, 1992) and numerous articles in the field of psychological anthropology. He has carried out field research in Liberia, Micronesia, South Africa, Brazil, and most recently, Namibia.

The anticipated cost for the travel seminar to Ghana is $3,500. This includes roundtrip airfare from New York City to Ghana, all ground transportation in Ghana, onsite accommodations with double occupancy, meals, medical insurance, entrance and performance fees, local guides, cultural excursions, Skidmore IA faculty onsite, and the support of Skidmore’s Office of International Programs. The fee does not include personal expenses.

ABOUT THE NAME "FISHBONE"

2005-11-19T09:12:00.000-08:00

Fishbone is just my nickname.Since the days when the first seafarers saw- and learned to fear- the gaping jaws of this great fish, it has symbolized the quintessence of malice. In novels and films, in record books and scientific text, occasionally and briefly in aquariums, and of course in the sea, the unblinking black eye of the great white shark has stared at us as if to challenge our alleged domimion over the animals. We have confirmed our rank as the plantet's predominant pillager and predator, subduing the forests, the plains, the jungles, and the deserts, along with the flora and fauna that inhabits these realms. Our technological prowess has also enabled us to poison the land, the lakes and rivers, the atmoshere, and, to a lesser extent, even the ocean, which -so far- has resisted our depredations only by virtue of its vast expanse, its great depths, and its resilience. Extinctions and endangerments are our legacy, and included on the long list of of the worlds depleted species is the great white shark."

FRIENDS.......

2005-11-14T09:05:00.000-08:00

A FRIEND IS SOMEONE WHO COMES IN WHEN THE WHOLE WORLD GOES OUT.

I'll never forget, the day we met I knew you'de be mine, my heart was set.I had to have you, at any cost now without you, I would be lost.I live each day, with you in mind forever strengthening, the ties that bind I'll chat no more, with other men cause this is now, and that was then.You fill each day, with joy and love you must have been sent, from up above.I thought that god, was so unjust then he sent me you, and regained my trust. The moon and Stars are bright and far Just like the distance in our hearts .The sky seems so peaceful ,I feel to prayI pray to make it through another day .The brightness in the moon reminds me of your eyes .The twinkle in the stars makes me want to wish upon a starMaybe together we can wish upon that star And that wish will grant our hearts to shine bright and far. I looked in the sky last night,and oh what a sight.A star shining down so bright, giving me a sign this love is right.I wished upon that star, to bring you home to me.And the angels they did sing a song of hope,and harmany.They told me to be strong for it won't be long til you are with me,because this love will carry you home.Now i know it won't be long til your back in my arms where you belong. My Soul has been kissed by the sweetness of Your Spirit.This Soul which was a virgin to the intrepid whisper of another heart Knows the quiet peace of familiarity in your presence.Was I born to give to You This part of Me to keep and hold within So, You, too, will know the imprint of a heart's whisper Upon Your Soul.
I long to see my special friendTo show her things I've done.The writing that I do for herTo me is so much fun.The appreciation that I feel from herIs very special to me.She knows I write from within my heartMy soul it is set free.My writing often speaks of loveSometimes friendship, too.Whenever I am with my friendShe chases away the blues.The time I get to spend with her,The quiet talks we share,She made an impact on my lifeShe showed me that she cares.This Lady is a special friendI'm positive she knows.She knows the feelings I have in my heartShe's read them in my prose.I know that we will never loveBut that's OK, you see.I am at my happiestWhen she shares her time with me.

A BEST FRIEND

2005-11-14T08:35:00.001-08:00

I never knew a friendship could be so strong and last so long.The day we met was way back in time,And our friendship has lasted from that day on.A friendship like ours is hard to find,And sometimes it could take a lifetime to find that one true friendWho would be by your side when times get too hard to face all alone.I never would have known we could grow together so close.Most friendships can end in a turn of a knob or a tick of a clock,But ours has lasted throughout the hard times we have had.We fought about things that could have just passed by,But after the hard time we always ended up on each other's side.Our friendship has lasted through thick and thin.The last time we said good-bye I thought it was the end,But God keeps bringing us back together because he knowsThat our friendship is too strong to let us move on.He knows no one deserves to be alone.That's why we have each other, to help us through these lonely times.I was lost all those times we were split apartBy things that shouldn't have been,And now I know how lucky I am to have you as my best friend.I am so lucky to have you, because I love youAnd you're my best friend until the end,And you can always count on me because I'll be here for youWhen all the good doors begin to close,Because that's what a best friend is for!

FRIENDS.......!!!!!!

2005-11-14T08:35:00.000-08:00

A FRIEND IS SOMEONE WHO COMES IN WHEN THE WHOLE WOLRD GOES OUT

I never knew a friendship could be so strong and last so long.The day we met was way back in time,And our friendship has lasted from that day on.A friendship like ours is hard to find,And sometimes it could take a lifetime to find that one true friendWho would be by your side when times get too hard to face all alone.I never would have known we could grow together so close.Most friendships can end in a turn of a knob or a tick of a clock,But ours has lasted throughout the hard times we have had.We fought about things that could have just passed by,But after the hard time we always ended up on each other's side.Our friendship has lasted through thick and thin.The last time we said good-bye I thought it was the end,But God keeps bringing us back together because he knowsThat our friendship is too strong to let us move on.He knows no one deserves to be alone.That's why we have each other, to help us through these lonely times.I was lost all those times we were split apartBy things that shouldn't have been,And now I know how lucky I am to have you as my best friend.I am so lucky to have you, because I love youAnd you're my best friend until the end,And you can always count on me because I'll be here for youWhen all the good doors begin to close,Because that's what a best friend is for!My friend is you because i know when you tell me the truth or you struggle a lot the only thing i know is when you are not there i try to contact you and keep in touch because you are my friend and thats what friends do so don't let me down cause i won't no...
I long to see my special friendTo show her things I've done.The writing that I do for herTo me is so much fun.The appreciation that I feel from herIs very special to me.She knows I write from within my heartMy soul it is set free.My writing often speaks of loveSometimes friendship, too.Whenever I am with my friendShe chases away the blues.The time I get to spend with her,The quiet talks we share,She made an impact on my lifeShe showed me that she cares.This Lady is a special friendI'm positive she knows.She knows the feelings I have in my heartShe's read them in my prose.I know that we will never loveBut that's OK, you see.I am at my happiestWhen she shares her time with me.

LOVE IS PRECIOUS TO THOSE.........!

2005-11-14T08:09:00.000-08:00

I can be myself when I am with you. Your idea of romance is dim lights, soft music, and just the two of us. Because you make me feel like I have never felt before. I can tell you anything, and you won't be shocked. Your undying faith is what keeps the flame of our love alive. You and me together, we can make magic. We're a perfect match. Thinking of you, fills me with a wonderful feeling. Your love gives me the feeling, that the best is still ahead. You never give up on me, and that's what keeps me going. You are simply irresistible. I love you because you bring the best out of me. Your terrific sense of humor. Everytime I look at you, my heart misses a beat. You're the one who holds the key to my heart. You always say what I need to hear. You have taught me the true meaning of love. Love is, what you mean to me - and you mean everything. You are my theme for a dream. I have had the time of my life and I owe it all to you. And, of course, your intelligence, 'cause you were smart enough to fall in love with me. You are my everything. Thank you for loving me the way no one can. You understand me and you know just how to make things right. You will never know just how much I love you, but I will spend the rest of my days trying to show you. You saved me from the worst, and you are always there for me. Fighting is never an option and making love is always as sweet as the first time. No matter what, there will never be another for me and I will always keep you safe. I love you... for all eternity.

You make me feel special, like I'm your one and only. You make me feel like I'm a star in the sky lighting up your life. You make me feel safe when I'm near you, wrapped up in your arms. You make me feel like an angel from heaven because you never stop telling me how much you love me. You're always lighting up my heart with the things you do and say. I feel so happy just being with you this way. You're my baby, and will forever be my baby. You'll will always be the love of my life.

I love you so very much sweetheart. You are the love of my life. I have a hard time explaining how I feel. I have never felt anything like this before. You are always there for me no matter what. I do not know what I would've done this week without your love and support. You are the most loving, caring, compassionate and absolutely most awesome guy that I have ever met. Antonio holds a special place in my heart, but you have gone way above and beyond him.I never thought that was possible. I want to marry you now, I want to be your wife. I want a baby with you; that is the most awesome experience, nothing compares to that. You are a wonderful father to our kids, but you deserve more. Thank you for always being there, for the flowers - they are beautiful, for your kind words, hugs, kisses, and the unconditional love. You are a dream come true and I want to spend the rest of my life with you as your wife, lover, and best friend. I have never in my life been so very happy. I feel much loved, beautiful and very happy. I'm so very proud of you. You are a very strong person. It is really cool that we are strong for each other in different ways. We totally understand each other and feel for each other. When you hurt, I hurt. When you are happy, I'm happy. I just love you so much sweetheart and I never want to lose you. I give you my heart, my love and my life for now and forever. I love you.

LOVE

2005-11-14T06:38:00.000-08:00

I'll never forget, the day we met I knew you'de be mine, my heart was set.I had to have you, at any cost now without you, I would be lost.I live each day, with you in mind forever strengthening, the ties that bind I'll chat no more, with other men cause this is now, and that was then.You fill each day, with joy and love you must have been sent, from up above.I thought that god, was so unjust then he sent me you, and regained my trust. The moon and Stars are bright and far Just like the distance in our hearts .The sky seems so peaceful ,I feel to prayI pray to make it through another day .The brightness in the moon reminds me of your eyes .The twinkle in the stars makes me want to wish upon a starMaybe together we can wish upon that star And that wish will grant our hearts to shine bright and far. I looked in the sky last night,and oh what a sight.A star shining down so bright, giving me a sign this love is right.I wished upon that star, to bring you home to me.And the angels they did sing a song of hope,and harmany.They told me to be strong for it won't be long til you are with me,because this love will carry you home.Now i know it won't be long til your back in my arms where you belong. My Soul has been kissed by the sweetness of Your Spirit.This Soul which was a virgin to the intrepid whisper of another heart Knows the quiet peace of familiarity in your presence.Was I born to give to You This part of Me to keep and hold within So, You, too, will know the imprint of a heart's whisper Upon Your Soul.

ABOUT ME

2005-11-14T05:09:00.000-08:00

ESSIEN ANTHONY IS MA NAME FROM GHANA IN THE WEST OF AFRICA.AM A GUY OF 21YEARS OLD AND NOW HEADING TOWARDS 22YEARS.AM AN ARTIST,I JUST GRADUATED FROM THE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL FOR ABOUT THREE MONTHS AGO AND WAS STUDYING VISUAL ART IN SCHOOL. I LIKE DRAWING VERY MUCH.WHENEVER I FEEL LONELY,I TAKE MY TOOLS AND MATERIALS AND START PAINTING OR DRAWING.AM NOW TO GO TO THE UNIVERSITY TO STUDY GRAPHIC DESIGN.WELL,I WILL BE ABLE TO MEET FRIENDS ALL OVER THE WORLD.I LIKE BEING FRIENDS WITH THOSE WHO ARE LOYAL,OBEDIENCE,TRUTHFUL.CALM AND MANY MORE.AND DISLIKE THOSE WHO ARE DISRESPECTFUL.AM A VERY SIMPLE GUY AND LIKE FRIENDS A LOT.WELL,I HAVE A LITTLE EXPERIENCE ABOUT COMPUTER,AND NOW WORKING AS A TYPESETTER IN ONE OF THE COMPANIES IN KUMASI.AM IN A SINGING GROUP OF THREE,WE LIKE PLAYING HIPHOP,COUNTRY MUSIC,R&B AND OTHERS.I LIKE PLAYING FOOTBALL AND HAVE DECIDED TO COMBINE BOTH OF THEM TOGETHER AS CAREER.