Скачать с ютуб The Inca Empire, Machu Picchu And Incan Culture | Ancient History For Children | Incan Empire Quiz в хорошем качестве

The Inca Empire, Machu Picchu And Incan Culture | Ancient History For Children | Incan Empire Quiz

The Inca Empire, also known as Tawantinsuyu, was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. Flourishing in the Andean region of South America from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, the Inca civilization left an indelible mark on history. One of the most iconic symbols of the Inca Empire is Machu Picchu, a breathtaking citadel perched high in the Andes, and it stands as a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of Incan culture. The origins of the Inca Empire can be traced back to the legendary founding of the city of Cusco by Manco Capac, the first Sapa Inca, or ruler, according to Inca mythology. The empire began to take shape under the leadership of Pachacuti, who expanded its borders significantly. The Inca Empire reached its zenith under Huayna Capac, stretching from modern-day Colombia to Chile, encompassing a diverse range of landscapes and cultures. Incan society was highly organized, with a complex social structure and a centralized government. At the pinnacle of society was the Sapa Inca, believed to be the son of the sun god. Beneath him were the nobility, priests, and military commanders. The majority of the population, however, were commoners who engaged in agriculture and contributed to the empire's prosperity. The Inca Empire was renowned for its advanced administrative system. They used a unique form of record-keeping known as quipu, a system of knotted strings, to store and convey information. This helped in managing the vast empire efficiently. Machu Picchu, often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas," is perhaps the most famous archaeological site associated with the Inca civilization. Located in the Andes Mountains, at an altitude of over 2,400 meters (7,874 feet), Machu Picchu is a marvel of engineering and architecture. Believed to have been built in the 15th century as a royal estate for Pachacuti, Machu Picchu is a complex of stone structures, terraces, and plazas seamlessly integrated into the natural landscape. The site was abandoned and largely forgotten until its rediscovery by American historian and explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. The purpose of Machu Picchu is still a subject of scholarly debate. Some believe it served as a ceremonial or religious center, while others propose that it was a royal retreat. The precision of its construction, the strategic location, and the intricate design suggest a high level of planning and engineering prowess. Incan architecture is characterized by the use of finely cut stones that fit together without the use of mortar. The most famous example is Machu Picchu, where the stones are so precisely cut that they fit together with almost no space between them. The Incas also built extensive road networks, including the famous Inca Trail, which connected different parts of the empire. The construction of Machu Picchu, situated on a ridge between two peaks, showcases the Inca's mastery of engineering. The site includes agricultural terraces, residential areas, religious shrines, and a sophisticated water management system. The precision of the stonework, the alignment with astronomical features, and the overall layout of Machu Picchu demonstrate the Inca's deep understanding of architecture and urban planning. The Inca civilization had a rich and complex belief system. They worshipped a pantheon of gods, with Inti, the sun god, holding a central place in their religious practices. The Sapa Inca was considered the "Child of the Sun" and held divine status. Incan religious ceremonies often involved elaborate rituals, festivals, and sacrifices. The Inti Raymi, or Festival of the Sun, was one of the most important celebrations, marking the winter solstice and honoring Inti. Sacrifices, usually of animals, were offered to appease the gods and ensure the fertility of the land. Despite its remarkable achievements, the Inca Empire succumbed to Spanish conquest led by Francisco Pizarro. In 1532, Pizarro captured and executed the last Inca emperor, Atahualpa, in the city of Cajamarca. The Spanish conquistadors exploited internal divisions within the empire, advanced weaponry, and European diseases to dismantle Inca resistance.