The Inca Civil War

Die Autorin beleuchtet den Inka-Bürgerkrieg und somit den bedeutendsten Konflikt in der Geschichte der Inka anhand historischer Berichte des 16. und 17. Jahrhunderts. Ausgehend von der Regierungszeit Guayna Capacs untersucht sie die familiären und politischen Konstellationen, die den Nachfolgestreit zwischen seinen Söhnen Guascar und Atagualpa prägten, und stellt Guascars Machtstrategien Atagualpas diplomatischen und militärischen Manövern in Quito gegenüber. Die Darstellung schließt mit einer Analyse der politischen Maßnahmen des Siegers Atagualpa und seiner Pläne für die Zukunft des Reiches. This book provides a thorough reconstruction of the Inca civil war, examining this most significant conflict in Inca history by drawing on major 16th- and 17th-century historical narratives. Starting with the reign of Guayna Capac and his campaigns in Ecuador, it explores the familial, political and courtly contexts that shaped the struggle for succession between his sons, Guascar and Atagualpa. Particular focus is given to Guascar's relations with the Inca elite following his father's death, his political strategies for consolidating power, and the implications of his reform attempts. The situation in Cuzco is contrasted with Atagualpa's position in Quito, examining his diplomatic manoeuvres, evolving political objectives, and subsequent military response. The account of the military confrontation and its complexities concludes with an examination of the final political measures taken by the victor, Atagualpa, and his potential plans for the future of the empire.