In Chapter 26, you learned about the Inca Empire. The empire lasted from the 1400s until 1532, when the Incas were defeated by the Spanish. At the top of Inca society was the emperor, called the Sapa Inca. The Incas believed that the Sapa Inca was descended from Inti, the sun god. For this reason, the Sapa Inca had complete power and authority.

Below is a biography of an Inca emperor, Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui. As you read, think about this question: What were his most significant contributions to the Inca Empire?

Historians don't know much about Pachacuti's early life. They know more about his actions after he became emperor. Early in his reign, he began to expand his empire, north and south, from his capital in Cuzco (in present-day Peru). He went as far north as parts of present-day Ecuador. In the south, his empire eventually extended almost the length of the Andes Mountains.

To control this far-flung empire, Pachacuti created an amazing system of roads. Some historians have compared it to the Roman Empire's system of roads. About 15,000 miles of road linked the Inca Empire across the most difficult terrain imaginable, including dense tropical jungles and high mountains. Inca officials used the roads to travel throughout the empire. The emperor also used runners, called chasquis, to communicate with officials in distant places.

Throughout his reign, Pachacuti was responsible for the construction of many buildings and towns. He had roadside houses built for Inca travelers to stay. He caused storehouses to be built in all villages, large or small, to store food for his troops and for the people. He founded new towns in the lands he claimed. Closer to home, he made his capitol, Cuzco, larger by adding many new buildings, including a grand palace for himself.

Pachacuti made many reforms that helped to consolidate his empire. He caused the people he conquered to abide by the laws of the Incas. He even created new religious ceremonies. While this may not have made him popular with conquered peoples, it did help to create a united empire.

Pachacuti reigned for more than 50 years. After his death, burial ceremonies lasted for a year. Legend has it that he fathered more than 300 children during his life. He was succeeded by one of his sons.

Investigating Biographies

Create a mosaic to summarize the key contributions of the Inca emperor, Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui. Your mosaic should include
History Alive! The Medieval World and Beyond, Investigating Biographies