The Ashanti (cf Asante) are a major ethnic group from Africa. Prior to European colonisation, Ashanti was a major state, particularly during the period from 1570 to the late 19th century, and one of the few African states able to offer serious resistance to the European invaders. Britain fought several wars against the Ashanti kings, one of which was notable as the first conflict in which the Maxim gun was used.

The territory occupied by the Kingdom of Ashanti is now known as Ghana. The hereditary Ashanti crown continues to be honoured by the Ashanti people, however, alongside the authority of the state.