What were 3 of the Incas’ greatest accomplishments?

Question

The Inca was powerful indigenous (native) group from South America. They built a large empire in South America that extended through the Andes Mountains and along the west coast. By 1525, the empire stretched 2,600 miles. They were excellent architects and engineers and built a large network of roads and bridges. (See middle image for greatest accomplishments.) These helped their strong central government control even the most distant parts of the empire. The Inca believed in many gods.
The Spanish came to South America in 1532 looking for gold. Spanish explorer Francisco Pizarro conquered the Incas by 1533, destroying cities, taking valuable resources, and killing many Incans

Answer 1

The Inca civilization is known for several remarkable accomplishments that contributed to their strength and enduring legacy. Here are three of their greatest achievements:

1. Road System: The Incas constructed an extensive and sophisticated network of roads, known as the Inca Road System, that spanned approximately 25,000 miles across their empire, which included rugged mountainous terrain. These roads facilitated trade, transportation, and communication throughout the empire, enabling the central government to maintain control over distant regions. The roads were engineered with precision, incorporating techniques such as terracing and drainage to prevent erosion and accommodate the diverse landscape.

2. Agricultural Innovation: The Incas developed advanced agricultural techniques that allowed them to maximize the arable land in their mountainous environment. They used terrace farming to create flat, usable land on steep hillsides, which helped to manage water drainage and soil erosion. Additionally, they cultivated a variety of crops, including potatoes, maize, and quinoa, and developed sophisticated irrigation systems to support agriculture in the arid regions of their empire.

3. Stone Architecture: The Incas were master builders, known for their impressive stone architecture. They constructed monumental structures, such as temples, forts, and cities, using precisely cut stones that fit together without mortar, a technique known as ashlar masonry. This not only created sturdy buildings that have withstood earthquakes but also demonstrated their sophisticated engineering skills. Famous examples include the city of Machu Picchu, which remains a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Inca ingenuity.

These accomplishments highlight the Inca's advanced engineering, agricultural practices, and societal organization, making them a formidable empire in the pre-Columbian Americas.