Osei Kwadwo

Osei Kwadwo ( Osei Kwadwo also Okoawia, Osei Kwadwo called Kumaa or only ) (* 1735, † 1777 ), was from 1764 to 1777 Asantehene (ruler ) of the Kingdom of Ashanti, which from the early 18th to mid 19th century only the central, later dominated the whole territory of present-day Ghana.

Osei Kwadwo was the fourth since the Asantehene Osei Tutu agreement Ashanti under I. and extended the area of ​​Aschantireiches during his rule through military conquest. More important were his reforms of the government system of Aschantireiches. In contrast to previous approach, he appointed " Chiefs " and other dignitaries basis of merit ( bravery in the war, diplomatic skill in handling or in stores). Up to Osei Kwadwo offices were inherited in Aschantireich. He led non-hereditary positions, which were equated with ministerial positions, and occupied vacant Erbfürstentümer with men of his confidence. The new process strengthened the personal power of the Asantehene considerably, as the circle of the rulers advanced, who owed their power solely with the appointment by the Asantehene. Kwadwo also set up a kind of police force that Ankobia, which was stationed in the capital, Kumasi.