SASAH 4th Year Capstone and Other Projects: Publications
Document Type
Publication
Publication Date
Winter 4-30-2019
Abstract
In this paper, Bergen explores the affects of colonialism on language rights in Ghana. With approximately eighty languages spoken, Ghana is a linguistically rich and diverse country with a colonially-imposed language as the only state-sponsored language. By examining the linguistic, political, economic, educational, and cultural context of what was once the Gold Coast the paper discusses the factors that keep a system of linguistic imperialism in place. Secondary research is used to provide an introduction to the genealogical language families present in post-colonial Ghana and the customs and laws that govern their usage. By identifying the nuances that keep this linguistic structure in place, the paper aims to open the discussion on the lasting effects of colonialism as well as the ties between language and cultural and national identity.