Battle of Feyiase facts for kids

The Battle of Feyiase was a very important fight. It happened in 1701 in a place called Feyiase, in what is now Ghana. This battle changed who was in charge among the Akan people in West Africa. After this battle, the powerful Ashanti Empire took over from the Denkyira kingdom.

What Led to the Battle?

Before the battle, the Denkyira kingdom was very strong. Its leader, called the Denkyirahene (which means 'King of Denkyira'), was named Ntim Gyakari. He thought his army was winning the war against the Ashanti. His forces had pushed the Ashanti back from several towns.

However, this was all part of a clever plan by the Ashanti leader, Osei Tutu. He was the Asantehene (King of the Ashanti). Osei Tutu wanted to trick the Denkyira army into a trap at Feyiase.

The Battle of Feyiase

The Denkyira army had some modern weapons for their time. They used two or three Dutch cannons. The Ashanti, on the other hand, did not have many firearms.

When the Denkyira army arrived at Feyiase, the full power of the Ashanti army attacked them. The Denkyira soldiers were completely defeated. Their leader, Ntim Gyakari, was killed during the battle. The Ashanti also captured the Denkyira's cannons.

What Happened Next?

The Battle of Feyiase was a huge victory for the Ashanti. It broke the Denkyira's control over the region. This meant the Denkyira kingdom was no longer the most powerful.

Instead, the Ashanti Empire became the main power. This battle helped create the strong Ashanti Union. The area where the battle ended, Feyiase Akoyem, is now part of the Bosomtwe District in Ghana.