Evaluate the contributions of internal and external factors in the achievement of independence in Ghana.

The question requires that candidates make an appraisal of the contributions of internal and external factors in the achievement of independence in Ghana, weighing up the strengths and limitations of each. Candidates may offer equal coverage of internal and external factors, or they may prioritize their evaluation of either. However, both aspects will be a feature of the response. Candidates may refer to the role of Nkrumah and other nationalist politicians in the United Gold Coast Convention and the Congress People’s Party, the reforms of Governor Guggisberg, post-war riots and the Burns Constitution, the Positive Action campaign, and negotiations and constitutional developments following Nkrumah’s release from jail. For external factors, candidates may note the post-war economic and political weaknesses of the British and the precedent of Indian independence. They may allude to the enthusiasm of some British politicians, including Harold Macmillan, for decolonization, and the fear that Nkrumah might draw close to the Soviet Union if there were to be any further delays to independence. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.