Inca agriculture

Definition

Inca agriculture refers to the sophisticated farming practices and techniques developed by the Inca civilization, which thrived in the Andean region of South America from the 15th to the early 16th century. This agricultural system was crucial for sustaining the large population of the empire, utilizing advanced methods such as terrace farming, irrigation, and crop diversification to adapt to the diverse climates and altitudes of their territory.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Incas used terrace farming extensively to grow crops on steep mountain slopes, maximizing arable land in challenging environments.
2. They developed an intricate irrigation system that included canals and aqueducts to ensure a steady water supply for their crops.
3. Key crops included potatoes, maize, quinoa, and various types of beans, which were vital for the diet of the Inca people.
4. The Inca were skilled in crop rotation and companion planting, which helped maintain soil fertility and increase yields.
5. Their agricultural advancements contributed significantly to the empire's economy, enabling trade and supporting a complex society.

Review Questions

• How did terrace farming contribute to the sustainability of Inca agriculture?
  • Terrace farming allowed the Incas to cultivate crops on mountainous terrain, making effective use of otherwise unusable land. By creating flat, stepped fields, they minimized soil erosion and water runoff while optimizing sunlight exposure. This innovative technique not only increased agricultural output but also helped sustain a large population by providing a reliable food source throughout the diverse climates of their empire.
• Discuss the role of irrigation in Inca agriculture and its impact on crop production.
  • Irrigation was vital for Inca agriculture as it provided a consistent water supply to support their diverse range of crops. The Incas engineered complex systems of canals and aqueducts that diverted water from rivers and streams to their fields, enhancing productivity in arid regions. This advancement not only increased yields but also allowed them to cultivate high-altitude crops that would otherwise struggle to survive without adequate water.
• Evaluate how Inca agricultural practices influenced their society and economy in comparison to contemporary civilizations.
  • Inca agricultural practices significantly shaped their society and economy by ensuring food security and supporting a centralized state. Their innovative techniques like terrace farming and irrigation enabled them to sustain large populations and facilitate trade across vast distances. Compared to other contemporary civilizations that relied on simpler farming methods, the Incas' advanced agricultural systems fostered urban growth, complex social structures, and a robust economy based on surplus production, setting them apart as one of the most sophisticated civilizations of their time.

Related terms

Terrace farming: A method of growing crops on the side of a hill or mountain by creating stepped levels, allowing for effective use of land in steep areas.

Quinoa: A nutritious grain native to the Andes, cultivated extensively by the Inca and later recognized worldwide for its health benefits.

Ayllu: The traditional Andean community system that organized families into groups for agricultural labor and resource management.