Lesson 3: The Incas

Key Idea

The Incan Empire developed high in the Andes Mountains, a challenging environment with steep slopes and thin soil. This geography made it very difficult to grow enough food for a large population.

To overcome this challenge, the Incas engineered a special method called terrace farming. They carved wide steps into the sides of mountains to create flat land for planting crops like corn and potatoes. This clever adaptation allowed the Incas to produce a food surplus, which supported their growing empire.

Key Idea

The Incan Empire expanded using both diplomacy and military might. Incan leaders first offered neighboring peoples a chance to join the empire peacefully. Those who accepted received protection and access to Incan resources. Groups that resisted were conquered by the powerful Incan army.

To manage this large empire, the Incas established a highly organized, centralized government. All power flowed from the Sapa Inca in the capital, Cuzco. This government unified diverse peoples by imposing a common language, building an extensive road system, and requiring a labor tax.

Key Idea

The Incas were expert engineers who built impressive structures that fit perfectly into the Andean mountains. They constructed cities with massive stone blocks, cut so precisely that they fit together without mortar.

To unite their vast empire, the Incas created an extensive road system. This network of roads and bridges stretched for thousands of miles. It allowed armies, messengers, and goods to travel quickly across the rugged terrain.

Key Idea

Incan society was a strict hierarchy, with the Sapa Inca and nobles at the top. They held all the power and wealth. Below them were the commoners, who made up most of the population and performed all the labor.

Commoners lived and worked in community groups called the ayllu. Families in an ayllu shared land and resources. Instead of paying taxes with money, commoners paid with labor through the mita system. This required labor built the empire's roads, temples, and terraces.