TED-ED: The rise and fall of the Inca empire - Gordon McEwan

The Inca Empire, with a population of nearly 10 million, thrived in the Andes without wheels, horses, or written language. According to legend, the Incas were created by the sun god Inti and founded Cuzco. Pachacuti expanded the empire and implemented reforms, including a quipu system for record-keeping. The empire reached its peak under Topa Inca but declined due to disease and civil war. The Spanish, led by Pizarro, conquered the weakened empire, capturing and killing Atahualpa. Despite resistance, the Inca Empire fell by 1572.

What was unique about the construction of the Inca Empire?

• It relied heavily on written language.

• It was built entirely underground.

• It was constructed without wheels, horses, or iron.

• It was built using advanced machinery.

Who was the first Sapa Inca according to legend?

• Pachacuti

• Topa Inca

• Viracocha

• Manco Capac

What was the name of the Inca Empire's territory organization?

• Tahuantinsuyu

• Vilcabamba

• Cuzco Valley

• Machu Picchu

Which Inca ruler expanded the empire throughout the Andes?

• Atahualpa

• Pachacuti

• Huascar

• Huayna Capac

What strained the social fabric of the Inca Empire during Huayna Capac's reign?

• Natural disasters

• Distant military campaigns

• Economic collapse

• Invasion by neighboring tribes

What was a significant factor in the decline of the Inca Empire?

• Internal political stability

• Arrival of Spanish conquistadors and diseases

• Lack of resources

• Technological advancements

How did the Spanish view the capital of Cuzco?

• As a beautiful city, remarkable even in Spain

• As a military stronghold

• As a religious center

• As a small, insignificant town