What convinced Inca armies to retreat in their war against the Spanish in 1533?

Question

The Spanish captured their emperor.
The Spanish executed their emperor.
The Spanish captured their capital city.
The Spanish joined forces with native groups.

Answer 1

The main factor that convinced Inca armies to retreat in their war against the Spanish in 1533 was that the Spanish captured their emperor. The capture of Atahualpa, the Inca emperor, in 1532 during the Battle of Cajamarca significantly weakened the Incan leadership and morale. This event led to confusion and internal strife within the Inca Empire, contributing to their inability to effectively resist the Spanish forces. While the execution of Atahualpa and the subsequent seizure of key territories played roles in the Inca's difficulties, the initial impact of his capture was the most critical catalyst for the retreat.