England and Ashanti

Hostile and Aggressive Nature of the British Policy—Explanation of this Attitude—Results of the destruction of the Ashanti Federation—Human Sacrifices—Exaggerated Reports—Effect of British Policy on Commerce—Commercial Importance of Ashanti—Old Caravan Routes—Civilizing Influence of Native Commerce—Importance of Native Trade to Europeans—Delusive Ideas regarding the Interior—Hindrances to Native Commerce caused by Annexation—Natural Productions do not compensate for Destruction of Trade—Conclusion, “It might have been.”