Publisher Desc.  The mighty Ashanti (Asante) Empire was a West African, pre-colonial state in the 17th century, which later became Ghana. The people were known as the Ashanti, which spoke the language of Akan. The region was once known as Gold Coast, because of the gold deposits that were found. Osei Tutu served as the Asantehene (paramount chief) of Ashanti from 1701 to 1717. Kumasi became the capital. This regal processional symbolizes the ceremonial events that take place with the Ashanti.