Evaluate the economic development of the Gold Coast up to 1957.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the economic development of the Gold Coast up to 1957. They may focus on the development of private commerce, particularly in the gold mining sector with the emergence of major companies such as the Ashanti Goldfields Corporation. These companies became major employers in the region. Candidates may refer to the importance of the export market, with diamonds, pepper, ivory, grain and cocoa all prominent. Agriculture was diversified and peasant cultivators were encouraged to grow cash crops. A harbour was constructed at Takoradi, and there was development of rail and other transport infrastructures. In addition, urbanization led to the growth of an African middle class. Some candidates may argue that the colonial economy was developed under British rule to the extent where early independence became achievable due to the relatively advanced state of the Gold Coast economy.