d. 1471

Inca Emperor

Pachacutec Inca Yupanqui was not only the first Inca emperor whose dates and existence are firmly established in history; he is also widely considered the greatest Inca ruler—if not one of the greatest leaders in world history. An empire builder who began with a kingdom of perhaps 25 square miles (65 sq. km) and shaped it into a vast realm, Pachacutec created a system of roads and a highly organized, efficient government. These were particularly impressive achievements in light of the fact that the Inca had not discovered the wheel; had no pack animals other than the diminutive llama; and possessed no system of writing.

Pachacutec, whose name meant "he who transforms the earth," was born the son of Viracocha, a semi-legendary ruler whose name was taken from that of the principal Inca deity. But he was neither the first nor the...