EPISODE 1 – Battle of Nsamankow

Storyline:

The Asante Kingdom is expanding its influence in the region, it has conquered various ethnic groups by war including the coastal Fante and needs to maintain its dominance to ensure it receives tributes from the conquered. More importantly, it needs the trade routes to the coastal forts open and unimpeded for its traders. But the Fanti although conquered, incessantly rebel and close the trade routes forcing Asante traders to deal through them as middlemen. The British appetite for gold and other resources found in Asante territory is growing, it needs to secure its trading interests. The Fanti have persuaded the British that the Asantes are warlike and untrustworthy, a key strategy if they are to maintain their role as middlemen.  The Fanti have sought protection from the British Colonial forces –

To maintain their respective interests, the two groups must either negotiate peacefully or wage war to secure their interests…….  Through a series of unfortunate events both sides have concluded that the other cannot be reasoned with… war is the only option.