Pachacuti facts. The Great Inca Emperor Pachacuti: The Famous “Earth Shaker” Of Peru 2022-10-09

Pachacuti was the ninth Inca emperor of the Kingdom of Cusco, which dominated much of South America in the 15th and 16th centuries. He is perhaps best known for his military conquests and for implementing significant administrative and social reforms, which helped to solidify the Inca Empire and lay the foundations for its later expansion. Here are some interesting facts about Pachacuti:

1. Pachacuti's reign marked a significant turning point in the history of the Inca Empire. He came to power in 1438, after his father, Viracocha Inca, died. Pachacuti inherited a small kingdom that was confined to the Cusco Valley in modern-day Peru, but he quickly set about expanding the territory through military conquests. He led successful campaigns against neighboring states, such as the Kingdom of Chimor and the Kingdom of Quito, and his conquests helped to triple the size of the Inca Empire.

2. Pachacuti was known for his administrative and social reforms. He implemented a system of provinces and districts that allowed him to better control and govern the vast territory of the Inca Empire. He also standardized the legal system, established a network of roads, and constructed administrative buildings, temples, and other public works.

3. Pachacuti is credited with establishing the Inca Empire's first standing army. Prior to his reign, the Inca army had been composed of temporary conscripts who were called up for specific campaigns. Pachacuti established a permanent army that was made up of professional soldiers who were trained and equipped by the state. This allowed the Inca Empire to maintain a larger and more effective military force, which was crucial for its expansion and defense.

4. Pachacuti is also known for his religious and cultural reforms. He encouraged the spread of the Inca religion, which was based on the worship of the sun god Inti, and he established a network of temples and shrines throughout the empire. He also promoted the use of the Quechua language, which became the official language of the Inca Empire and is still spoken by millions of people in South America today.

5. Pachacuti's legacy is still remembered in modern-day Peru. He is considered one of the most important figures in Inca history, and his contributions to the development of the Inca Empire are still celebrated today. The city of Cusco, which was the capital of the Inca Empire, is named after him, and many of the buildings and structures that he constructed are still standing and are considered national treasures.