The Fall of the Inca Empire and Aftermath

A set of Q&A flashcards covering key events, figures, and consequences in the fall of the Inca Empire and its enduring legacy.

What action did Atahualpa take when the papal envoy presented him with a bun and demanded that he follow the true Catholic faith?

He threw the holy book on the ground.

What happened immediately after the attack by cannons and cavalry during Atahualpa's encounter?

About 7,000 Inca were slaughtered and Atahualpa was arrested.

What did Atahualpa offer to the Spaniards after realizing they were after riches?

Gold and silver filled rooms.

On what date was Atahualpa executed by the Spanish?

07/26/1533.

For what crime was Atahualpa found guilty during his trial?

Treason for ordering the death of his half brother Huascar.

What conversion did Atahualpa undertake shortly before his execution?

Conversion to Christianity so he would not be burned as a heretic.

Who did the conquistadors install as the puppy king?

Monco Inca Yapanui.

What did Monco Inca Yapanui do after co-ruling with the Spanish?

He grew tired of co ruling with the Spanish.

After escaping Cuzco, how large was the army raised by the Inca leader?

Up to 400,000 men.

What happened to Monco Inca Yapanui's forces during the ten-month siege of the capital?

His men deserted him to return to their farms.

Who led the remaining followers into the jungle, and what did they establish?

Marco led them into the remote jungles of Dilcaba, where he founded a short-lived neo-Inca state.

Who was the last independent Inca ruler and when did he die?

Tupacabam; died in 1572.

What happened to palaces and sacred sites after conquest?

They were converted into Catholic churches and other colonial buildings.

What caused a loss of about 50% of the indigenous population within the first century after conquest?

Epidemics, infighting among the Spanish, and war against remaining Inca resistance.

Which language is still spoken by about 8,000,000 people in the Central Andes?

Quechua.

What ancient ritual continues in Inca culture, such as during the June solstice?

The greeting of the sun.

What do archaeologists continue to do regarding the Incas?

They are still uncovering information about this intriguing people.

What odd instruction is included at the end of the notes about discovering more?

To discover more about the Incas, then check out We refuse to discover more.