Joseph A.Ankrah was born on Wednesday,18th August 1915 to his father Mr.Kofi Ankrah.he was from James town Accra.His mother's name was Beatrice Abashue Quaynor .he left behind 18 children and many wives.he attended Accra Wesley Methodist Primary and Middle school in 1921.
LT.GEN.J.A.Ankrah obtained Cambridge school certificate in 1937. In 1946,he was trained as officer Cadet in United kingdom (UK).1947, commissioned Lieutenant and appointed Colonel 17th August,1960.In 1960-1961, United Nation Peace Keeping Force in Congo,Brigade Commander of force bases in Luluiborg Kasai.
1961,He was Awarded the Military Cross for act of unsurpassed gallantly in Congo.On Thursday,24th February,1966 he was appointed Head of State and chairman of N.LC. 3rd April 1969 ,Gen.Ankrah was forced to resign as chairman of N.L.C and head of state over a bribery scandal involving france Nzerebe of Nigeria.
Wednesday 25th November,1992 he died of natural cause.Lt Gen.Joseph A.Ankrah was 77 years and 3 years in office.
