What type of government did the Inca civilization have?

The Inca civilization had a theocratic form of government, where the rulers were deemed to have divine authority. The Inca emperor, known as the Sapa Inca, was considered the representative of the sun god, Inti, and held both political and religious power. This intertwining of government and religion meant that the Sapa Inca not only led the state but also played a central role in religious ceremonies and the state’s connection to the divine.

The theocratic structure of the Inca government fostered a society where laws, social organization, and daily life were heavily influenced by religious beliefs. The Sapa Inca's decisions were believed to reflect divine will, reinforcing his authority and control over the vast empire. Thus, the Inca's theocratic system distinguished them from societies characterized by democracy, monarchy, or oligarchy, where the governance system might not necessarily involve such direct divine associations.