What led the Inca to engage in a policy of continual expansion?
There were several factors that led the Inca to engage in a policy of continual expansion:
1. Economic Factors: Expansion allowed the Inca to access new resources, such as gold, silver, and agricultural land, which helped to fuel their economy. They also sought to control key trade routes and markets to ensure a steady flow of goods.
2. Political Stability: Conquering new territories and assimilating their people into the Inca Empire helped to consolidate political power. Each conquered region had to pay tribute and provide labor to the central government, which ensured its stability.
3. Religious Beliefs: The Inca ruler, known as the Sapa Inca, was considered divine and believed to be the son of Inti, the sun god. Expansion was seen as a way to extend the influence of their religion and spread their cultural beliefs, including the worship of Inti and other Inca deities.
4. Prestige and Legacy: The Inca believed that expansion enhanced their prestige and the reputation of their ruler. Larger territorial control symbolized their power and supremacy over rival groups. Additionally, expanding their empire allowed the Inca to leave a lasting legacy, asserting their dominance and importance in the region.
5. Defense and Security: By expanding their territories and establishing garrisons in strategic locations, the Inca aimed to protect their empire from external threats. They believed that a strong defense system was crucial to maintaining stability and controlling rebellions within their empire.
Overall, the Inca engaged in a policy of continual expansion to strengthen their economy, political power, religious influence, prestige, and security.