Answer :
Final answer:
Terrace farming played a crucial role in the Inca Empire's growth by converting steep areas into productive farmland, significantly boosting agricultural output and sustainability. This innovation allowed for better soil conservation and effective water management, supporting their large population. Ultimately, terrace farming was instrumental in enabling the Incas to thrive despite the difficult topography of the Andes.
Explanation:
How Terrace Farming Contributed to the Inca Empire's Growth and Stability
The innovation of terrace farming greatly contributed to the growth and stability of the Inca Empire by allowing them to effectively cultivate the steep mountainous terrain of the Andes. This farming technique involved creating large, step-like structures along the contours of hillsides, which transformed otherwise unusable land into arable fields. By building retaining walls and systematically backfilling them with stones for drainage, the Incas could grow crops on these terraces, significantly increasing agricultural output.
- Increased Agricultural Production: The use of terraces enabled the Incas to produce a greater variety of crops, including staples like corn, beans, and potatoes, catering to their large population estimated to be around 12 million at its peak.
- Soil Conservation: Terracing helped to reduce soil erosion and promote soil formation, creating healthier environments for plants to thrive. This allowed the Incas to maintain the fertility of their farmland over generations.
- Water Management: The terraces were designed with outlets to channel water efficiently from one level to another. This not only facilitated irrigation but also helped to minimize surface runoff, further ensuring sustainable farming practices.
As a result of these benefits, the Inca Empire could support larger communities, enhance trade with other regions, and maintain stability despite the challenging geographic conditions they faced.
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