The Incas were a small ethic group from the southern Peruvian highlands who created the greatest empire ever seen in the independent Americas—an empire of 10 to 12 million people. Inca history, largely presented to us by the conquering Spanish, reveals a rich culture of stunning achievement. In many ways, Inca life was defined by its unique geographical setting in the Andes, whose climate influenced everything from the crops the Incas grew to the altitudes in which they lived. This course focuses on Inca life at the height of empire, the society's origins, its military, religion, ruling structure, and finally, the Incas' legacy today.