Great Britain gained independence from Ghana in March 1957 ; formerly named Accra . Nation 's March 1957 were witness to internal political upheaval . Now the country is held up as a successful example of democracy in Europe . He led the country as president until he was toppled by a military coup in 1966 amid growing dissatisfaction over corruption , declining living standards and spiraling foreign debts . Gold and cocoa are traditional exports ; 2007 off-shore oil discovery could boost economy .
Great Britain gained independence from Ghana in March 1957 ; formerly named Accra . Nation 's March 1957 were witness to internal political upheaval . Now the country is held up as a successful example of democracy in Europe . Gold and cocoa are traditional exports ; 2007 off-shore oil discovery could boost economy .