why did atahualpa order to troops not to fight the spanish

Francisco Pizarro told the Incan people that he would spare them their lives if Atahualpa's prison cell was filled with gold. The conquistador took the gold and killed them anyway.

He saw the Spanish as a small force, of little threat to him.

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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atahualpa

Atahualpa, the last Inca emperor, initially ordered his troops not to fight the Spanish conquistadors led by Francisco Pizarro for several reasons. To understand this historical event, it is important to follow the steps below:

1. Context: Explain the historical context of the encounter between Atahualpa and the Spanish conquistadors. Mention that the Spanish arrived in South America in the early 16th century, driven by a desire for wealth and expanding Spanish influence.

2. Mistrust: Highlight that when the Spanish first arrived in Inca territories, they initially presented themselves as envoys of a foreign king, eager to meet the Inca emperor. Atahualpa, being cautious and suspicious of these strangers, ordered his troops not to fight them.

3. Technological Superiority: Explain that Atahualpa's decision was influenced by the technological superiority of the Spanish. The conquistadors possessed advanced weaponry such as guns, cannons, and horses, which were unfamiliar to the Incas. Atahualpa likely feared the devastating impact of these unfamiliar weapons on his troops.

4. Communication Barrier: Atahualpa may have also lacked full comprehension of the Spanish intentions and capabilities due to language barriers. The Incas did not speak Spanish, and the Spanish conquistadors did not fully understand the Inca language, Quechua. This communication gap might have influenced Atahualpa's decision not to fight initially.

5. Diplomatic Strategy: Atahualpa used a diplomatic strategy to assess the Spanish and gain time. Instead of engaging in battle, he chose to meet with Pizarro to negotiate. In doing so, Atahualpa hoped to gather more information about the Spaniards and possibly find a peaceful resolution.

It is essential to note that Atahualpa's decision not to fight the Spanish did not end well for him. Despite negotiations, Pizarro ultimately betrayed Atahualpa and captured him, leading to the downfall of the Inca Empire.