The Inca Geography and Overview

These flashcards cover key concepts and facts about the Incan civilization, including geography, agriculture, society, engineering achievements, and the decline of the empire.

What was the geography of the Incan Empire like?

Coastal and desert regions, rainforests, part of the Andes.

What was the capital city of the Ancient Inca?

Cusco/Cuzco

What did the Inca not use?

Horses, wheel, written language.

Who was the god of the sun and the most powerful Incan god?

Inti.

What animal did the Inca use to help with work?

The llama.

What were the uses of the llama in Incan society?

1. Made cloth from its wool; 2. Ate its meat for food; 3. Burned its dung for fuel; 4. Carried items.

What type of farming did the Inca invent?

Terrace farming.

How did terrace farming help the Inca?

Created flat land in mountainous regions for farming.

How did the rock walls on terraces help the plants?

The sun warmed the stone walls during the day and released heat at night.

What system did the Inca use to manage crop water during droughts?

Irrigation system using gravity.

What were the big four crops grown by the Inca?

Corn (maize), potatoes, quinoa, and beans.

How did the Inca prevent starvation?

They built ventilated storehouses.

Who owned the Incan road system?

The government.

Were all Incan people allowed to use the roads?

False.

What were Incan bridges made out of?

Rope of twisted and braided grass.

How long did Incan bridges typically last?

1-2 years.

What was the job of the runners in Incan society?

To carry messages and packages across the empire.

What was the penalty for refusal to work in Incan society?

The death penalty (thrown off the mountain, hanging, stoning).

What was unique about Incan masonry?

Used very large stones that fit together perfectly without mortar.

What major engineering achievements did the Inca have?

1. Irrigation system; 2. 14,000-25,000 miles of roads; 3. Terrace farming; 4. Precise geometry.

What were Incan farmers required to do with their farmland?

Set aside ⅔ of their farmland for 'The Inca' and temples.

Were the Incas a monetary society?

False.

What device did the Inca use to keep track of records?

Quipu.

What is significant about Machu Picchu?

A vacation getaway for the Royal family and an archaeological site.

Who conquered the Inca Empire?

Francisco Pizarro and the Spanish.

What was the impact of smallpox on the Inca population?

Within a decade, 80 percent of the population died.