In order to understand Inca culture we must first take into account the earlier cultures that existed in pre-Columbian south america. But first, the term "Inca" can often be misused in reference not only to the conquering race that dominated the area in the 300 years or so prior to Spanish invasion, but to encompass all of the cultures that came before them as well. For the record, the Incas were the ruling clan, the noble elite of their empire, which they built by conquering their weaker neighbors.

    One of the most significant characteristics of the Incas was their ability to assimilate the conquered tribes into their culture through their wise and strict form of government and masterful administration of it. The Incas did in fact provide a better way of life for their subjects than they had before, by declaring themselves supreme rulers they established law and order in a previously lawless environment. But the Incas also learned to utilize the skills of their conquered artisan subjects which greatly contributed to the expansion of their empire evidenced through the building of amazing fortresses, road systems, exquisite pottery and beautiful gold works.

    It may be said then that the Incas were the benefactors of the rich traditions, cultures and craftsmanship left behind by their ancestors and which they managed and preserved under their monarchy.

    It may also be said that their true genius was mainly in the arts of administration and governing, war and conquering. But the Incas were also master planners and builders with vision and ability to control and manage their human and natural resources. They evolved in a world where the foundations for growth had been laid down by their ancestors and the Inca came down from the mountains sensing the timing for expansion with predatory instinct.

    In the next few pages we will briefly look at some of these ancient cultures in order put the Incas in historical perspective.