Quipu
Definition
A system used by the Inca to record information, consisting of variously colored threads knotted in different ways.
Analogy
Think of a quipu as an ancient version of a computer's hard drive. Just like how we store data digitally today, the Incas stored their data using knots and colors on strings.
Related terms
Inca Empire: An empire in South America from the 12th century AD until its conquest by the Spanish in 1533. It was known for its sophisticated organization and infrastructure.
Andean Civilizations: Various indigenous cultures that developed in the Andean region of South America from the early pre-Columbian period to the arrival of Europeans, including but not limited to the Inca civilization.
Pictogram: A symbol representing a concept, object, activity, place or event by illustration. Similar to quipu, it is another form of non-verbal communication used historically.
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