Kwame Nkrumah

First president of Ghana

Modern influential 111 sayings

Sayings by Kwame Nkrumah

The African revolution is irreversible.

Unknown — Attributed
Controversial Unverifiable

We are determined to be free.

c. 1950s — Speech, c. 1950s
Controversial Unverifiable

The people of Africa are marching forward.

c. 1960s — Speech, c. 1960s
Controversial Unverifiable

The struggle continues.

Unknown — Common slogan, often used in his writings and speeches
Controversial Unverifiable

Forward ever, backward never!

c. 1950s-1960s — Common slogan, often used in his speeches
Controversial Unverifiable

If by their fruits we shall know them, they must first grow the fruits.

Undated — A retort or observation emphasizing the need for tangible results rather than mere promises.
Humorous Unverifiable

Capitalism is a development by refinement from feudalism, just as feudalism is development by refinement from slavery. Capitalism is but the gentleman’s method of slavery.

1965 — From his book 'Neo-Colonialism: The Last Stage of Imperialism'
Controversial Unverifiable

The white man is very clever. He came quietly and peaceably with his religion. We were amused at his foolishness and allowed him to stay. Now he has won our brothers, and our clan can no longer act like one. He has put a knife on the things that held us together and we have fallen apart.

1957 — From 'The Autobiography of Kwame Nkrumah'
Controversial Unverifiable

The people of Africa are crying out for unity.

1963 — Speech at the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU)
Controversial Unverifiable

The black man is capable of managing his own affairs.

1957 — Speech advocating African self-governance
Controversial Unverifiable

The total liberation and unification of Africa under an All-African Socialist Government must be the primary objective of all Black revolutionaries throughout the world.

1970 — From his book 'Class Struggle in Africa'
Controversial Unverifiable