Inca

Definition

The Inca were a powerful civilization that thrived in the Andean region of South America from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. Known for their advanced engineering, agriculture, and extensive road systems, the Inca Empire was one of the largest empires in pre-Columbian America and had significant interactions with early European explorers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Inca Empire reached its height under the rule of Emperor Pachacuti, who expanded its territory significantly through conquests and alliances.
2. Inca society was organized into a highly centralized system where the emperor, known as the Sapa Inca, held ultimate authority and was considered a divine figure.
3. The Incas built an extensive network of roads and bridges across diverse terrains, facilitating trade, military movement, and communication throughout their vast empire.
4. Inca agriculture was highly advanced, featuring terrace farming techniques that allowed them to cultivate crops on steep mountainous terrain, including potatoes and maize.
5. The arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century led to the rapid decline of the Inca Empire due to warfare, disease, and the eventual capture of their leader Atahualpa.

Review Questions

• How did the Inca's agricultural techniques contribute to their ability to support a large population?
  • The Inca developed advanced agricultural methods that allowed them to thrive in the challenging Andean environment. Their use of terrace farming maximized arable land on steep slopes, preventing soil erosion while increasing crop yields. By cultivating staple crops like potatoes and maize, the Incas could sustain a large population and support their empire's expansion through improved food security.
• Discuss how the extensive road network built by the Incas influenced their military and administrative capabilities.
  • The Inca road system was crucial for both military and administrative efficiency. It allowed for rapid troop movement across vast distances, enabling the Incas to respond quickly to threats or manage rebellions. Additionally, it facilitated communication between different regions of the empire, allowing for better governance and integration of diverse cultures under Incan rule.
• Evaluate the impact of European contact on Inca society and how it altered their civilization permanently.
  • European contact, especially through Spanish conquistadors, had a devastating impact on Inca society. The arrival of Europeans brought new diseases that decimated indigenous populations, weakening societal structures. The violent conquest led to significant cultural disruptions, loss of autonomy, and exploitation of resources. The effects of this contact transformed not only Inca civilization but also set the stage for broader colonial influences throughout South America.

Related terms

Quechua: The native language spoken by the Inca and still used by millions of people in the Andes today.

Machu Picchu: An iconic archaeological site that served as a royal estate and religious site for the Inca, showcasing their architectural prowess.

Cuzco: The historic capital city of the Inca Empire, known for its stunning stone structures and as a cultural center of Incan civilization.