Fall of Civilizations Podcast
12. The Inca - Cities in the Cloud
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The Inca Empire built the largest empire in the Western Hemisphere in a challenging terrain.
- The Andes mountain range influenced the climate and landscapes of South America.
- The cultures of Tiwanaku and Wari had a significant influence on the development of the Inca Empire.
- The Inca Empire implemented an organized system of labor and had advanced infrastructure and governance.
- The downfall of the Inca Empire was brought about by the arrival of Spanish conquistadors and the subsequent colonization of Peru.
Deep dives
The Discovery of Machu Picchu
Hiram Bingham explores the cloud forests of Peru and discovers the ruins of Machu Picchu, a once-abandoned royal estate of the Inca kings. The site is now known as one of the most recognizable and distinctive ruins in the world.
The Geography and Environment of the Andes
The Andes mountain range stretches across South America, impacting the circulation of the Earth's atmosphere and creating diverse landscapes. The range includes rainforest-filled valleys, the driest place on Earth, deserts, and high peaks with extreme climates.
Ancient Cultures of the Andes: Tiwanaku and Wari
The cultures of Tiwanaku and Wari in the Andes developed advanced infrastructure and engineering techniques, including terracing, irrigation canals, and road networks. These cultures had a significant influence on the Inca Empire.
Rise of the Inca Empire
Under the leadership of kings like Pachacuti and Topa Inca, the Inca Empire rapidly expanded through military conquest and diplomacy. Their empire covered vast territories, and their advanced organizational skills allowed for efficient governance.
The System of Labor in the Inca Empire
In the Inca Empire, an organized system of labor was implemented to support the empire's economy. Each family was given land and resources, such as seeds and tools, to grow food. They contributed their surplus food to a common storehouse and performed labor services for the state when required. Nobles were exempt from labor taxes. Cloth production, predominantly done by women, was critical in the Andean society. Peasants had little autonomy and were subject to inspections and restrictions on wealth ownership.
The Height of the Inca Empire and its Challenges
The Inca Empire reached its zenith, boasting a well-coordinated economy, advanced infrastructure, and a large military. However, events in the wider world would soon bring new challenges. The death of the Inca king coincided with the arrival of Europeans in the Americas, igniting a wave of destruction and ultimately leading to the collapse of the entire Inca society.
Francisco Pizarro's Journey and Motivations
Francisco Pizarro, a Spanish conquistador, embarked on a journey to explore the New World. After hearing about the conquest of Mexico by his cousin, Hernán Cortés, Pizarro set his sights on Peru, rumored to be a wealthy empire. Facing numerous challenges, Pizarro persevered and secured permission from the Spanish crown to embark on an expedition to conquer Peru.
The Encounter between Pizarro and Atahualpa
After a challenging journey, Pizarro and his men arrived in Peru. They were met with caution by the Inca ruler, Atahualpa, who eventually agreed to meet them in the town of Cajamarca. Despite warnings and the overwhelming size of the Inca army, Pizarro launched a surprise attack. Using cannons, guns, and cavalry, unfamiliar weapons to the Inca, Pizarro's forces caught Atahualpa's ceremonial procession off guard, resulting in chaos and a swift victory for the Spanish.
The Fall of the Inca Empire
The podcast episode recounts the tragic downfall of the Inca Empire at the hands of the Spanish conquistadors. The Spanish launched a surprise attack on the Incas during a meeting, resulting in a devastating massacre. The Inca emperor Atawalpa was captured and used his negotiation skills to buy enough time to consolidate his power and rid himself of rivals. However, the Spanish saw through his ploy and eventually executed him. The conquest of the Inca Empire led to the colonization of Peru, but it also sparked resistance and rebellions that lasted for several decades.
Pizarro's Triumph and Tragic Fate
Francisco Pizarro, the Spanish conquistador, achieved great conquests in Peru and amassed immense wealth from looting Inca treasures. However, his rule was marred by corruption and infighting among the conquistadors, leading to civil war and the deterioration of the society they had conquered. Pizarro's life ended tragically when he was assassinated by one of his former captains. The Inca Empire's grandeur crumbled, its cities were destroyed, and its people were subjected to oppression and exploitation under Spanish colonial rule.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
