Invasion following civil war
Disease and succession conflict affected Inca authority in the early sixteenth century. War between Atahualpa and Huascar mobilized forces from different regions. Pizarro’s party entered the Andes in 1532, seeking supplies and cooperation as local groups made varied choices. The meeting at Cajamarca became an attack and Atahualpa was captured. Captivity altered negotiations, but movement, supplies and command still depended on regional people and networks that newcomers needed to engage.
Cusco and continuing resistance
After Atahualpa’s execution, Spaniards entered Cusco and cooperated with some local forces in installing rulers. Manco Inca initially participated but organized a major uprising in 1536, including the siege of Cusco. Spanish forces, Indigenous allies and Inca groups depended on regional labor and supplies. Colonial institutions expanded in cities, mining and farming, complicated by conflicts among conquerors. Communities faced war, tribute and relocation while their forms of cooperation and resistance continued to change.
Vilcabamba and continuing local societies
Manco Inca and successors maintained a center at Vilcabamba, combining war and negotiation. Spanish forces entered in 1572, capturing and executing Túpac Amaru. Andean communities retained languages, productive knowledge and social relations while encountering new religious, labor and administrative demands. Records and archaeology preserve regional changes, with local leaders continuing within colonial institutions. Decades of conquest reorganized political connections, and everyday life continued to adjust after the resistance center’s end.