Wari Empire

Definition

The Wari Empire was a significant pre-Columbian civilization that thrived in the Andean region of present-day Peru from around 500 to 1000 CE. It is recognized for its advanced urban planning, agricultural innovations, and extensive trade networks, which set the stage for future Andean cultures, including the Inca. The Wari developed a highly organized society that contributed to the social and political landscape of the Andean civilizations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Wari Empire was characterized by its urban centers, such as Huari, which served as political and administrative hubs within the empire.
2. They developed advanced agricultural techniques, including terracing and irrigation systems, to optimize farming in the challenging Andean terrain.
3. The Wari are believed to have had a complex political system that included a centralized government and a network of regional administrators.
4. Wari culture significantly influenced subsequent civilizations in the Andes, especially in aspects of architecture and road construction.
5. Artifacts from the Wari Empire indicate strong trade links with other cultures in Mesoamerica and South America, showcasing their economic influence.

Review Questions

• How did the Wari Empire's urban planning and agricultural innovations contribute to its sustainability and influence on later Andean civilizations?
  • The Wari Empire's sophisticated urban planning included the construction of large cities that were strategically located to manage resources effectively. Their agricultural innovations, such as advanced irrigation techniques and terracing, allowed them to thrive in the rugged Andean landscape. This combination of urban development and efficient agriculture not only supported a growing population but also set a foundation for future Andean cultures like the Inca, who adopted and expanded upon these practices.
• Discuss the role of trade networks in the Wari Empire's economy and how they impacted their relationships with neighboring cultures.
  • Trade networks were vital for the Wari Empire’s economy, facilitating the exchange of goods such as textiles, ceramics, and agricultural products with neighboring regions. These networks enhanced the empire's wealth and helped maintain political alliances with other cultures. The Wari's connections through trade not only provided access to diverse resources but also allowed for cultural exchanges that enriched their society and influenced surrounding civilizations.
• Evaluate the legacy of the Wari Empire in shaping Andean culture and society, particularly in comparison to later civilizations like the Inca.
  • The legacy of the Wari Empire is profound, as it laid much of the groundwork for Andean culture and societal organization that would later be expanded by the Inca. The Wari's advancements in urban planning, agriculture, and trade established models that were essential for Inca governance. By analyzing their contributions alongside those of the Inca, it's clear that while each civilization had unique characteristics, many aspects of Inca culture can be traced back to Wari innovations. This continuity illustrates how earlier empires shaped subsequent societies in profound ways.

Related terms

Andean Agriculture: The agricultural practices and crops native to the Andean region, including potatoes, quinoa, and maize, which were crucial for sustaining Andean civilizations.

Nazca Culture:

An ancient civilization that coexisted with the Wari Empire, known for its intricate geoglyphs and pottery, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Inca Empire:

The largest empire in pre-Columbian America that rose after the decline of the Wari Empire, known for its sophisticated architecture, extensive road systems, and administrative efficiency.