Pachacuti

The ninth Sapa Inca who transformed a chiefdom into the vast Inca Empire (Tawantinsuyu).

Chronology: 1391 – 1471

Origins & Early Life

Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, also called Pachacútec (Quechua: Pachakutiy Inka Yupanki, pronounced [ˈpatʃa ˈkuti ˈiŋka juˈpaŋki]), was the ninth Sapa Inca of the Chiefdom of Cusco, which he transformed into the Inca Empire (Tawantinsuyu). Most archaeologists now believe that the famous Inca site of Machu Picchu was built as an estate for Pachacuti. In Quechua, the cosmogonical concept of pachakutiy means "the turn of the world" and yupanki could mean "honorable lord". During his reign, Cusco grew from a small town into an empire that could compete with, and eventually overtake, the Chimú empire on the northern coast.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

He began an era of conquest that, within three generations, expanded the Inca dominion from the valley of Cusco to a sizeable part of western South America. According to the Inca chronicler Garcilaso de la Vega, Pachacuti created the Inti Raymi to celebrate the new year in the Andes of the southern hemisphere. Pachacuti is often linked to the origin and expansion of the cult of Inti. Following his death, Pachacuti's deeds were transmitted through various means, including genealogical histories, life histories, and quipus, kept near his royal mummy. Accessing power following...

Enduring Legacy & Impact

The historical impact and works continue to influence the modern world.

Source: Wikipedia