Joseph Arthur Ankrah was born on 18th August 1915 in Accra, Gold Coast, to Samuel Paul Cofie Ankrah and Beatrice Abashie Quaynor.

He attended Wesleyan Methodist School in 1921, earning the nickname “Ankrah Patapaa” for his leadership qualities.

Later, he enrolled at Accra Academy in 1932, excelling in football and academics, and graduated with the Senior Cambridge School Certificate in 1937. He subsequently joined the Ghana Civil Service. 

Ankrah began his military career in 1939, joining the Gold Coast Regiment during World War II.

He became the first African officer in the Gold Coast Army after training in the UK in 1947.

Rising through the ranks, he commanded an all-African company in Tamale and led Ghanaian troops during the United Nations Operation in Congo, earning the Military Cross for bravery.

By 1961, he was Ghana’s first army commander but was dismissed in 1965 over a suspected coup plot.

Following a coup on 24 February 1966, Ankrah became Ghana’s first military head of state as Chairman of the National Liberation Council.

He also served as Chairperson of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) from February to November 1966 and mediated peace talks during Nigeria's Civil War in Biafra in 1967.

His tenure ended in 1969 after a bribery scandal forced his resignation.

After leaving politics, Ankrah focused on private life and sports, serving as President of Accra Hearts of Oak S.C.'s Council of Patrons. He passed away on 25 November 1992 in Accra at age 77. 

Ankrah married Mildred Christina Akosiwor Fugar in 1965 and had several wives, with a total of 18 children, including Jackie Ankrah, a broadcaster and musician.

His personal life reflected his diverse connections within Ghanaian society.