Answer :
The Inca civilization developed an ingenious farming technique called 'terrace farming' to successfully grow crops in the challenging terrain of the Andes mountains.
Who and Where:
The Inca Empire was located in South America, primarily across what is now Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and parts of Ecuador and Argentina. The Andes mountain range is a defining geographical feature of this region, with its steep slopes and varying altitudes.
What and How:
Terrace farming involves creating stepped sections, or 'terraces,' on the slopes of the mountains. These terraces are essentially flat, horizontal platforms that create the ideal conditions for agriculture in mountainous areas. They are held in place and supported by retaining walls.
Why:
Terrace farming was essential for the Incas to effectively use the arable land in such a hilly region. The benefits included:
- Prevention of soil erosion: The terraces reduced the velocity of water runoff and helped secure soil nutrients.
- Water conservation: The structure allowed for efficient irrigation by trapping water and ensuring it reached all the plants.
- Temperature regulation: The terraces retained heat from the sun and protected crops from the extreme variations in temperature experienced in high altitudes.
Crops:
The Incas cultivated a variety of crops using terrace farming, including potatoes, maize (corn), quinoa, and various beans. These crops were well-suited to the climate and the capability of terrace farming.
Overall, this method was crucial in sustaining the large population of the Inca Empire by maximizing the agricultural productivity of the mountainous terrain.
