It was established in about 1740 by Anyi migrants from Ghana with its capital at Krindjabo.

[1] In the early 19th century, Sanwi was a vassal to the Asante Empire until this status was destroyed as a result of French colonial expansion in the region.

[2] The kingdom declared American singer Michael Jackson to be Prince of the Sanwi in 1992.

[3] Reciprocal visits by Jackson and King Amon N'Douffou IV were made to Krindjabo and Los Angeles respectively.

After Jackson's death in 2009, an elaborate two-day funeral was held in Sanwi.