What was Pizarro's strategy for conquering the Incas?
Social Studies · High School · Tue Nov 03 2020
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Pizarro's strategy for conquering the Incas revolved around a combination of military cunning, psychological warfare, and exploitation of internal Inca discord.
1. Establishing Contacts and Gaining Intelligence: Initially, Pizarro and his small force made contact with the Inca Empire to understand its politics, economy, and military capabilities.
2. Exploiting Civil War: Pizarro took advantage of a recent Inca civil war between two brothers, Atahualpa and Huáscar, which had weakened the empire and divided its loyalties.
3. Seizing the Emperor: Pizarro implemented a bold plan by capturing the Inca Emperor Atahualpa during a meeting in Cajamarca. This was achieved through a surprise attack and massacre of the unarmed Incas accompanying Atahualpa, which caused disarray and confusion among the Inca forces.
4. Ransom and Deception: After capturing Atahualpa, Pizarro demanded a large ransom for his release. Although the Incas delivered the ransom, Pizarro reneged on the agreement and executed Atahualpa.
5. Taking Advantage of Superior Weapons: The Spanish had steel weapons, armor, and horses which were not known to the Inca, giving them a significant military advantage.
6. Establishing a Puppet Leader: Pizarro installed a puppet ruler, Manco Inca, to create the illusion of continuity and legitimacy, while continuing to control the empire behind the scenes.
7. Alliances and Division: Pizarro fostered alliances with certain Inca groups who were opposed to Atahualpa or who sought benefits from supporting the Spanish. He also exploited the Inca's lack of a unified command structure post-capture of Atahualpa.
8. Strategic Expansion: The Spaniards gradually expanded their control, capturing key locations and securing resources, further consolidating their power within the empire.
9. Furthering Internal Conflict: The Spaniards continued to exploit and intensify conflicts within the Inca elite, as well as uprisings and resistance, to maintain their hegemony over the Incas.
By taking advantage of these factors, Pizarro ultimately subdued the Inca Empire, leading to its collapse and Spanish domination of the region.