Bill Sillar

Learn all about the rise and fall of the Inca Empire, from their vast territory in South America to their encounter with Spanish conquistadores. Explore their social structure, agricultural practices, textile traditions, and legacy through engaging discussions with expert guests and entertaining quizzes.

Join Frank Meddens, a Visiting Scholar at the University of Reading, Helen Cowie, a Senior Lecturer in History at the University of York, and Bill Sillar from University College London as they unravel the fascinating world of the Inca Empire. They delve into how the Incas expanded from small groups into a powerful civilization, discussing their remarkable agricultural innovations and extensive road systems. The group also explores the logistical brilliance of the Inca communication, their cultural practices, and the dramatic effects of the Spanish conquest on their society.

Professor Bill Sillar and Sue Perkins join the podcast to delve into the rise and fall of the Inca Empire, discussing their rapid expansion, social structures, religious beliefs, agriculture, mummification practices, and the impact of Spanish conquest. The episode covers all aspects of Incan life, including food, art, architecture, and the significance of potatoes in their society.