The Age of Exploration had a profound impact on the Incan civilization, primarily through the arrival of Spanish explorers and conquistadors in the early 16th century. One of the most significant effects was the disruption of Incan society due to external invasion.
When the Spanish, led by Francisco Pizarro, arrived in the Incan Empire, they encountered a civilization that was already wealthy and sophisticated. However, the Incas were also experiencing internal strife. The Spanish took advantage of this division and quickly moved to conquer the empire.
One major impact was the thrust of disease brought by the Europeans. Smallpox and other diseases devastated the Incan population, who had no immunity to such illnesses. The drastic reduction in population weakened the Incan societal structure and made it easier for the Spanish to assert control.
Additionally, the Spanish conquest led to the looting of Incan resources, including gold and silver, which the explorers sought for wealth and advantage in Europe. This exploitation fundamentally altered the economic landscape of the Andes region.
Ultimately, the Age of Exploration marked the beginning of colonial rule in South America, leading to the dismantling of the Incan Empire and significant changes in the lives of the indigenous people. Traditional Incan systems were replaced, and many aspects of their culture were suppressed or altered under Spanish rule, which has had lasting effects on the region’s history.