Pachacuti
Pachacuti (1438-1471/1472) was the ninth Sapa Inca of the Inca Empire and is often considered its greatest ruler, known for his significant contributions to the expansion and consolidation of the empire. Here are some key points about Pachacuti:
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Reign: Pachacuti assumed the throne around 1438 after a civil war where he ousted his brother, Urco. His reign is noted for its length and the profound changes he brought to the Inca society.
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Expansion: Under Pachacuti's rule, the Inca Empire expanded dramatically. He conquered numerous regions, including the territories of the Chanca people, who had previously threatened Cusco, and extended the empire's reach into present-day Ecuador, Chile, and Argentina.
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Urban Planning: Pachacuti is credited with the transformation of Cusco into a magnificent city. He ordered the rebuilding of Cusco with stone structures, creating a layout that reflected the empire's new status and power. This included the construction of the famous Qorikancha, or Temple of the Sun.
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Agricultural Reforms: He implemented agricultural reforms, including the terracing of mountainsides for farming, which increased food production and allowed for population growth.
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Administrative Reforms: Pachacuti established a highly structured bureaucracy, introducing the concept of Tawantinsuyu, dividing the empire into four parts, each governed by a local noble loyal to the Inca.
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Cultural Contributions: He promoted the arts, leading to advancements in architecture, textile work, and pottery. Pachacuti also commissioned the creation of the Coricancha and the Sacsayhuamán fortress, showcasing Inca engineering prowess.
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Religious Reforms: Pachacuti promoted Inti, the sun god, to the head of the Inca pantheon, thus strengthening the divine right of Inca rulers. He also established the Inti Raymi festival to celebrate the sun god.
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Legacy: Pachacuti is often credited with laying the cultural and administrative foundations that would allow the Inca Empire to flourish. His policies and reforms set the stage for the empire's greatest period of prosperity and expansion.
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