A revered figure in Ghanaian history, Kwame Nkrumah is most known for having guided his nation to independence and serving as its first prime minister and president.
Even though Kwame Nkrumah made a tremendous impact on the political scene of Ghana, many Ghanaians may be surprised to learn some of these lesser-known facts about him:
1. Academic endeavors in the United States
From 1935 to 1945, Nkrumah studied in the United States for over ten years. He studied at Pennsylvania’s Lincoln University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Economics.
The same university also awarded him a Bachelor of Theology degree. He further continued his education at the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated with a Master of Science in Education and a Master of Arts in Philosophy.
2. Influence of Marcus Garvey
While in the United States, Nkrumah was significantly influenced by the ideas of Marcus Garvey, the Jamaican political leader and staunch proponent of black nationalism.
Garvey’s vision of a united Africa and his advocacy for Pan-Africanism profoundly shaped Nkrumah’s political ideology and aspirations for African unity.
3. Work as a school teacher
Before becoming deeply involved in politics, Nkrumah worked as a school teacher in Ghana (then the Gold Coast). He taught at Roman Catholic primary schools in Elmina and Axim.
His early career in education helped him develop a strong connection with ordinary Ghanaians and an understanding of the importance of education in national development.
4. Role in the formation of the African Union
Nkrumah was a fervent advocate for the political and economic unity of Africa. He played a pivotal role in the formation of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, which later evolved into the African Union (AU).
His vision for a united Africa remains a significant part of his legacy and continues to inspire efforts towards continental integration.
5. Author and philosopher
Nkrumah was also an accomplished author and philosopher. He wrote several influential books, including “Africa Must Unite,” “Neo-Colonialism: The Last Stage of Imperialism,” and “Conscience: Philosophy and Ideology for Decolonization.” His writings reflect his deep commitment to African liberation, social justice, and his vision for a socialist Africa.
6. Exile and final years
After being overthrown in a military coup in 1966, Nkrumah lived in exile in Guinea. He was invited by President Ahmed Sékou Touré, who made him an honorary co-president.
Nkrumah continued to work on his writings and Pan-African projects during his years in exile. He passed away in 1972 in Bucharest, Romania, while undergoing medical treatment.
7. He chose PHD over Dutch passport
Nkrumah received numerous honorary degrees and international accolades for his contributions to African independence and his efforts in promoting Pan-Africanism.
Some of the institutions that awarded him honorary degrees include Lincoln University, Moscow State University, and Cairo University.
These lesser-known aspects of Kwame Nkrumah’s life and career provide a deeper understanding of the man behind Ghana’s independence.
His enduring legacy continues to influence not only Ghanaian politics but also the broader African continent’s quest for unity and self-determination.