At the time of Columbus's first voyage, the Inca Empire was the richest and most powerful society in the Americas. The Sapa Inca, as a descendant of the gods, was absolute lord of all in the vast empire. The life of every citizen was controlled by him, but every citizen also knew precisely his place in society as well, and knew that he and his family would be protected from any want.
Rumors of this wealthy kingdom and its rich treasures of gold reached Spanish adventurers newly settled in Panama. Although Hernando Pizarro was then over fifty, his goal in life was to be a someone, and he spent the next eight years in a search for this golden kingdom. Eventually, he and his brothers found and conquered the Inca Empire, at a time when the land was torn apart by civil war.
Albert Marrin, the author of many highly praised books on the history of America, traces the origins of the Incas and examines their culture. He then presents the facts of Pizarro's life and how his small band of Spanish adventurers conquered the Inca Empire. The Spaniards' ruthless treatment of Indians—and of each other—and the brutality of the conquest is presented in a fascinating and compelling story.
—from the dust jacket
Did you find this review helpful?