how were the incas able to adapt to their physical environment?
Check this site, especially the part about farming.
http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/CIVAMRCA/INCAS.HTM
who are the soul, the brain, the sword
i was not even alive wher u asked ths qstion
The Incas, a highly advanced indigenous civilization that thrived in South America from the 13th to the 16th centuries, were able to adapt to their diverse physical environment through various strategies. Here's an explanation of how they achieved this:
1. Agricultural Innovations: The Incas developed sophisticated agricultural techniques to cope with diverse climates and terrain. They built terraces (step-like platforms) on mountainsides to create flat surfaces for farming. By utilizing terracing, they conserved soil, managed water runoff, and effectively grew crops at high altitudes where farming would normally be difficult.
2. Irrigation Systems: To address the arid conditions in some regions, the Incas constructed an extensive network of irrigation canals, channels, and reservoirs. These systems allowed them to distribute water to agricultural fields, maximizing crop productivity and supporting large populations in areas with limited rainfall.
3. Domestication of Plants: The Incas selectively bred and cultivated a wide variety of crops suited to different ecological niches. They domesticated crops such as potatoes, quinoa, maize (corn), and various tubers. This enabled them to diversify their food sources and adapt to different altitudes and climatic conditions.
4. Road Networks: The Incas built an impressive network of roads called the "Qhapaq Ñan" that spanned over 24,000 miles. These roads facilitated trade, communication, and the movement of people across varied landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and jungles. This infrastructural development improved their ability to adapt and govern their vast empire efficiently.
5. Architectural Design: Inca architecture was designed to withstand natural elements. They employed techniques such as using polygonal stone blocks, trapezoidal doorways, and mortar-less construction to create structures that could withstand seismic activity prevalent in the Andean region.
6. Resource Management: The Incas practiced sustainable resource management and conservation. They regulated the use of farmland, forests, and water resources through a complex system that ensured long-term sustainability. This approach allowed them to preserve their environment while meeting the needs of their growing population.
Overall, the Incas' ability to adapt to their physical environment stemmed from their innovative agricultural practices, irrigation systems, road networks, architectural design, and resource management. These strategies enabled them to thrive in diverse ecological settings and establish one of the largest and most powerful empires in the Americas.