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The Incas: An Ancient Civilization That Flourished in the Andes Mountains

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Published in The Incas (Peoples Of America 13)

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The Incas were an ancient civilization that flourished in the Andes Mountains of South America from the 13th to the 16th centuries. They were known for their advanced civilization, which included a complex system of government, a vast network of roads, and impressive architecture.

Origins of the Incas

The origins of the Incas are shrouded in mystery. According to Inca legend, the first Inca ruler, Manco Cápac, was the son of the sun god Inti. He and his sister-wife, Mama Ocllo, emerged from Lake Titicaca and founded the city of Cusco, which became the capital of the Inca Empire.

The Incas (Peoples of America Book 13)

by Terence N. D'Altroy

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Inca Civilization

The Inca civilization was one of the most advanced in the Americas. The Incas developed a complex system of government that was based on a hierarchy of rulers. The emperor, known as the Sapa Inca, was the absolute ruler of the empire. He was assisted by a council of advisors and a large bureaucracy.

The Incas also developed a vast network of roads that connected the different parts of the empire. These roads were used for trade, communication, and military purposes. The Incas were also skilled engineers and built impressive bridges, aqueducts, and fortresses.

The Incas were known for their architecture. They built massive stone structures, including temples, palaces, and fortresses. The most famous Inca architectural achievement is Machu Picchu, a city that was built on a mountaintop in the Andes Mountains.

Religion of the Incas

The Incas were polytheistic and worshipped a number of gods and goddesses. The most important god was Inti, the sun god. The Incas also worshipped the moon god, Venus, and the earth goddess. The Incas believed that the gods controlled the natural world and that they could be appeased through sacrifices and rituals.

Decline and Fall of the Inca Empire

The Inca Empire reached its peak in the early 16th century. However, the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in 1532 marked the beginning of the end for the Inca Empire. The Spanish were technologically superior to the Incas and they were able to defeat them in a series of battles.

The Inca Empire was officially dissolved in 1572. However, the Inca people continued to live in the Andes Mountains and they have preserved their culture and traditions to this day.

Legacy of the Incas

The Incas left a lasting legacy on the Americas. Their system of government, their network of roads, and their architecture are still visible today. The Inca culture has also had a profound influence on the cultures of the Andean countries.

The Incas were a remarkable people who created one of the most advanced civilizations in the Americas. Their legacy continues to inspire people today.

Additional Resources

* [The Incas](https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-americas/inca) * [The Inca Empire](https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/inca-empire/) * [Machu Picchu](https://www.britannica.com/place/Machu-Picchu)

Image Gallery

[Image of Machu Picchu](https://www.britannica.com/place/Machu-Picchu alt="Machu Picchu") [Image of Inca ruins](https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-americas/inca alt="Inca ruins") [Image of Inca gold mask](https://www.nationalgeographic.org/encyclopedia/inca-empire/ alt="Inca gold mask")

The Incas (Peoples of America Book 13)

by Terence N. D'Altroy

4.6 out of 5