Memorials and History

Having read the article Memorial Landscapes: analytic questions and metaphors by Owen and Derek, I understood why the study of memorials is essential to people especially scholars. This is because memorials present clear, definite and deeper understanding of the past which is crucial to remembering historic events. As I read Tuesday’s article, I kept reminiscing some memorials in my homeland which am most familiar with. One of such is the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, located in the central part of Accra, Ghana. It was built in memory of the first prime minister and president of Ghana, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. He led the state into its independence from the British colonial rule in 1957. To know more about him and his contribution to Ghana’s independence, visit https://www.workers.org/2009/world/nkrumah_1008/

In visualizing this Mausoleum as I read, I was able to connect to the three different metaphors presented by Owen and Derek, which demonstrated how geographers examined and made meanings of memorial landscapes; that is, through text, arena and performance. For instance, considering “text”, historical events in this setting (the Mausoleum) were interpreted through a collection of monuments, pictures, clothes, footwear’s, books which were once used by the late president whilst he was alive. These items gave meanings to his life history and more also his struggle for independence. Additionally, with regards to “arena”, this mausoleum was situated in the capital city of Ghana, which is Accra because that is where the seat of government is located. However, just as Owen & Derek identified memorials as places where social actors debate and narrate the past differently due to competitions and conflicts about what is commemorated, the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum has in similar vein attracted criticisms and conflicts over the years because it least captured memories of some individuals (victims and heroes) who helped the first president in his struggle for state’s liberation from the colonial masters. Lastly, considering “Performance”, the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum serves as a tourist site which, is mostly frequented by local Ghanaian's and foreigners. It also functions as place, where both the old and young can visit in pursuit of acquiring knowledge and understanding about the history of Ghana. Comparing this memorial place to other memorials like the Elmina Castle, Slave Market of Abonse and Larabanga (all in Ghana) which are all extensively patronized, the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum presents a good history of Ghana’s first president. 

Below is a video of the Mausoleum

Reference

Workers World. Nkrumah and Ghana’s independence struggle. Retrieved from https://www.workers.org/2009/world/nkrumah_1008/