Answer :
Final answer:
The Inca Empire was significantly weakened by the time Francisco Pizarro invaded, primarily due to a devastating smallpox outbreak and internal civil strife. While Inca weaponry was less effective compared to Spanish arms, both disease and internal chaos greatly contributed to the empire's vulnerability. Therefore, the correct answer is that both factors played a crucial role in the empire's decline prior to Pizarro's conquest.
Explanation:
Understanding the Inca Empire's Decline Before Pizarro's Arrival
By the time Francisco Pizarro invaded the Inca Empire in the early 1530s, the empire had already been significantly weakened by multiple factors. It is essential to examine options A, B, and C to understand the conditions leading to Pizarro's conquest.
Factors Contributing to the Inca Empire's Vulnerability
- A. Inca weaponry was obsolete: This statement is somewhat misleading. While the Inca did have sophisticated military tactics and large armies, they faced technological disadvantages against Spanish steel weapons and firearms. However, it's essential to recognize that they were not necessarily obsolete but rather outmatched in certain circumstances.
- B. Smallpox outbreak: This is correct. The Inca Empire was already experiencing a severe population decline due to last major smallpox outbreaks that devastated their society before Pizarro's arrival. By the time Pizarro reached the region, the Inca had suffered immense losses, contributing to social chaos.
- C. Internal strife: This statement is also accurate. The death of the Inca emperor Huayna Capac from smallpox in 1527 led to a brutal civil war between his sons, Atahualpa and Huáscar, for control of the empire. This internal conflict further weakened the Inca and made them more susceptible to external threats like the Spanish.
In conclusion, the correct answer is D. Both A and C. By the time Pizarro invaded, the Inca Empire was indeed weakened due to both internal strife arising from the civil war and the devastating impacts of disease.
Learn more about Inca Empire's decline here:
https://brainly.com/question/2495635
