Queen Nanny of the Maroons
If you love and can appreciate a great woman hero, then let me introduce you to The Honorable Queen Nana Obiyaa, also known as Queen Nanny of the Maroons. She is Jamaica’s National Hero. Born in Ghana, Queen Nanny was from the Ashanti Empire. She was brought to Jamaica as a prisoner of war sold into slavery. While in Jamaica, she and her brothers escaped their captives and helped to free other slaves as well. She was said to have healing powers and she established herself in her community as a Chief Priestess. She led a guerilla army that defeated British soldiers. Her determination and perseverance capture the essence of the Jamaican spirit, “we likkle but we tallawah”. Translated to mean that we may be little in stature, but mighty in power. Queen Nanny’s rebellion changed the course of Jamaica’s history and ultimately helped to free her people from slavery. Queen Nanny is an inspiration to all people but especially a testament to the immeasurable and often times overlooked power and wisdom of the Black Woman.
I first learned about Queen Nanny growing up as a child. I remember visiting a market in Jamaica with my mother. I may have been 12 at the time. The women at the market were complimenting me on my complexion and resemblance to the Maroons. I didn’t understand their compliment, as in America, it was not a popular thing to be as dark as I was. I asked my mom what they had meant when they compared me to the Maroons.
My mom then explained that it was an honorable compliment and then shared with me our Jamaican history and the role that Granny played in it. From that day forward, despite what anyone else had to say about my complexion, I was most proud of it. I also recall hearing fascinating stories about Queen Nanny such as a story about her being pursued and shot after by British soldiers while retreating to the hills of Jamaica’s Blue Mountain. Legend has it that bullets ricocheted off her buttocks as she was fleeing the soldiers and resulted in killing those who had been in pursuit of her. I thought what a ridiculously fascinating story! This was one of the many fascinating stories shared about her. As historical documentation meets grandiose legend’s tales, what is accurate is that once upon a time in the 18th century lived a fearless African Woman Leader, affectionately Queen Nanny, and she sure did defeat the British Army. Let’s talk about it!
The Asante (Ashanti) Empire
And early photograph from 1935 of the Asante Empire’s famous Golden Stool. (The National Archives UK v / 1.0OGL v1.0 )
The Ahanti Empire was a powerful empire that emerged as early as the 17th century in the West African State of Ghana. The Ashanti territory once covered the majority what is now Ghana. The Ashanti people were known for their wealth, gold, being fierce fighters, their beautiful Kente cloth, and craftmanship.
Check out this video on Queen Nanny:
Check out these great articles on Queen Nanny below:
Queen Nanny,(Nana Obiyaa) and the Coromantins Of Jamaica By Alex Sarkodie MD
Nanny of the Maroons
First Mothers By Maisy Card, September 21, 2020
Queen Nanny of the Maroons, by IAN BERNARD March 1, 2011
Takeaways
Queen Nanny’s life, resilience, and accomplishments should inspire us to stand strong. Life is not always easy but if there is a will to do better for yourself, find the courage to try. As always, remember to commit yourself daily to caring for and loving yourself, no matter what. We here at The Let’s Talk Tribe are rooting for your continued success. Please like, share, comment, and SUBSCRIBE!
Always With Love,
The Let's Talk Tribe Team
#NanaObiyaa
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