INCA CIVILIZATION Meaning and
Definition
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The Inca civilization was an impactful and highly advanced pre-Columbian civilization that thrived in the Andean region of South America during the 15th and 16th centuries. It is renowned for its remarkable achievements in architecture, engineering, agriculture, and administration.
The Inca civilization was centered in the Cusco region of present-day Peru, and it expanded its influence to encompass an extensive territory that stretched from modern-day Colombia to Chile. At its peak, it was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America.
One defining feature of the Inca civilization was their sophisticated system of governance. The Inca emperor, known as the Sapa Inca, held immense political and religious power. The empire was divided into four provinces, each with its own governor and administrative organization. The Incas implemented an efficient system of record keeping through the use of knotted strings known as quipus, which helped facilitate communication and administrative management.
Notably, the Inca civilization excelled in architecture, with Machu Picchu being one of its most outstanding achievements. This ancient citadel, located high in the Andes Mountains, is an enduring testament to Inca craftsmanship and civil engineering. Additionally, the Inca civilization was highly skilled in agriculture, showcasing impressive knowledge of terrace farming, irrigation systems, and domestication of numerous crops.
Unfortunately, the Inca civilization was disrupted by the arrival of Spanish conquistadors led by Francisco Pizarro in the 16th century. The Incas faced diseases brought by the Europeans, which greatly weakened their population. The empire eventually fell, leading to the colonization of the area by the Spanish. Nonetheless, the legacy of the Inca civilization endures through its remarkable achievements and cultural traditions that continue to influence the Andean region today.
Etymology of INCA CIVILIZATION
The word "Inca" is derived from the Quechua word "Inti", which means "sun". The Inca civilization, also known as the Incan Empire, was a pre-Columbian civilization that developed in the Andean region of present-day Peru. The Incans created a vast empire that extended from modern-day Ecuador to Chile. The name "Inca civilization" is used to refer to this ancient society due to their central god and ruler, Inti, as well as their historical significance as the most prominent empire in the Andean region.
