Inca
The Inca Empire, also known as the Incan Empire and the Inka Empire, flourished as the largest empire in South America during the 15th and 16th centuries. Centered around the city of Cusco, it emerged from the Peruvian highlands in the early 13th century.
Between 1438 and 1533, the Inca Empire expanded significantly, incorporating vast regions of western South America. At its peak, it encompassed present-day Peru, parts of Ecuador, Bolivia, Argentina, Colombia, and Chile. The official language of the empire was Quechua.
The Inca Empire displayed several unique characteristics. Despite lacking certain features typically associated with civilizations, such as the wheel, it boasted impressive monumental architecture, intricate stonework, and an extensive road network connecting its territories. Additionally, the Incas utilized finely woven textiles, and knotted strings known as quipu for record-keeping, and implemented innovative agricultural techniques to thrive in challenging environments.
Unlike traditional economies based on money and markets, the Inca Empire operated on principles of reciprocity. Goods and services were exchanged among individuals and groups, often facilitated by the Inca rulers. Gold held significant value in Inca society, symbolizing wealth and status, with wealthy individuals buried with gold in their tombs.
While various local forms of worship persisted, the Inca leadership promoted the worship of Inti, the sun god, elevating it above other cults. The Sapa Inca, the king of the Incas, was regarded as the "son of the sun," emphasizing the divine authority of the ruler.
Scholars have debated the nature of the Incan economy, with interpretations ranging from feudal or slave-based to socialist or market-oriented. Some view it as a system centered on reciprocity and redistribution, while others draw parallels to Asiatic modes of production.
Spaniard Francisco Pizarro conquered and destroyed the Inca Empire in 1532. The Inca Empire left a lasting legacy in South America, showcasing remarkable achievements in architecture, governance, and culture. Despite its eventual conquest by the Spanish, the Inca civilization continues to fascinate and inspire curiosity about the complexities of ancient societies.
Source: Inca
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