Sapa Inca
The Sapa Inca was the paramount ruler of the Inca Empire, which was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. Here are key details about the Sapa Inca:
Role and Significance
- The Sapa Inca was considered divine, believed to be the direct descendant of the sun god, Inti, and was often referred to as "The Son of the Sun."
- He was the ultimate political, military, and religious authority, combining the roles of emperor, high priest, and military leader.
- His word was law, and his decisions were not to be questioned, making him the absolute ruler over all aspects of life in the empire.
History and Succession
- The position was hereditary, typically passing from father to son, although there were exceptions where brothers or other close relatives succeeded if no suitable heir was available.
- Notable Sapa Incas include:
- Pachacuti - Expanded the empire significantly and transformed Cusco into a magnificent city.
- Huayna Capac - Extended Inca influence into modern-day Ecuador and Colombia.
- Atahualpa - The last Sapa Inca before the Spanish conquest, who was executed by Francisco Pizarro.
Symbols and Regalia
- The Sapa Inca wore elaborate clothing, often including the Mascaipacha, a red fringe headdress which was a symbol of royalty.
- He was also associated with the Tumi, a ceremonial knife, which was used in sacrifices and rituals.
Palaces and Lifestyle
- The Sapa Inca resided in lavish palaces, with the most famous being in Cusco, but he also had estates in different regions of the empire.
- His lifestyle was luxurious, surrounded by numerous attendants, wives, and concubines, with all his needs catered for by the state.
Death and Succession
- Upon the death of a Sapa Inca, his body was mummified, and the mummies were kept and revered as if they were still alive, participating in ceremonies and receiving offerings.
- Succession could be tumultuous, with power struggles sometimes leading to civil wars, as seen in the conflict between Huascar and Atahualpa.
Sources
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