The social hierarchy of the Incas
The social hierarchy of the Incas was a rigid system that determined one's social status and responsibilities within Inca society. The hierarchy was based primarily on birth and was divided into four main classes:
1. The Emperor and Nobility:
At the top of the social hierarchy was the emperor, also known as the Sapa Inca. The emperor was believed to be the divine ruler and held absolute power. Below the emperor were the nobles or aristocrats, who were appointed by the emperor. They held high-ranking positions in the government and were responsible for governing the empire.
2. The Ayllus:
The second class in the social hierarchy were the Ayllus, which were essentially extended family groups or clans. Each Ayllu had a leader, known as a curaca, who oversaw the members of the Ayllu and represented them in matters regarding land, agriculture, and labor. Members of the Ayllu were responsible for working the land and providing food, products, and labor for the empire.
3. The Common People:
The majority of the population belonged to the common people class. They were primarily farmers, artisans, and laborers who worked for the empire and the nobles. The common people were organized into smaller communities called Wasi, which were responsible for cultivating the land, producing goods, and providing labor to the empire when needed. They were eligible for military service and were required to fulfill their civic duties.
4. The Slaves:
At the bottom of the social hierarchy were the slaves. Slavery in Inca society was different from other ancient cultures, as it was not hereditary, and individuals became slaves through debt, captivity in war, or as a form of punishment. Slaves were considered the property of the empire or individual nobles and were responsible for menial tasks such as domestic work, farming, and construction.
It is important to note that this social hierarchy was not completely fixed, and individual mobility between classes was possible in certain situations. Marriage alliances, exceptional service to the empire, or skillful craftsmanship could sometimes lead to upward mobility within the social hierarchy.