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Why did the guans migrate?

Published in Ethnic Migrations 2 mins read

The Guans migrated primarily because they were being threatened by the Mossi-Dagomba.

Understanding the Guan Migration

The migration of the Guan ethnic group represents a significant historical movement, directly prompted by external pressures that compelled them to relocate from their original territories. This crucial event, occurring around the turn of the first millennium, profoundly influenced the historical and geographical spread of the Guan people.

The Catalyst: Threats from Mossi-Dagomba

The fundamental reason behind the Guan migration was the imminent threat they faced from the Mossi-Dagomba. This considerable external pressure made it untenable for them to remain in their ancestral lands, necessitating a strategic move to ensure their safety and the preservation of their community.

  • Direct Cause: The Guans were under direct threat from the Mossi-Dagomba group.
  • Consequence: This threat led to their forced displacement and search for new, safer environments.

Historical Context: Origin and Timeline

The Guan ethnic group originated from the Mossi region, an area situated in what is known today as Burkina Faso. Their significant migratory period began approximately around 1000 AD. This era marked a pivotal point in their history, initiating their movement away from their original settlements in search of new lands where they could establish secure communities free from external threats.

Key Aspects of the Guan Migration:

Aspect Detail
Primary Reason Threatened by the Mossi-Dagomba
Origin Region Mossi region (present-day Burkina Faso)
Approximate Period Around 1000 AD
Outcome Relocation and establishment of new settlements