What was the primary function of quipu in Inca society?

The primary function of quipu in Inca society was record-keeping. Quipu, which consisted of a series of colored, knotted strings, served as a sophisticated system for storing information. The Incas utilized this method to maintain records of various aspects of administration, including accounting for resources, population numbers, tribute obligations, and military organization.

This unique system allowed the Incas to manage their vast empire effectively, despite the absence of a written language. The different colors and types of knots represented specific data, making quipu a crucial tool for their centralized governance. Understanding the importance of quipu highlights the innovation of the Inca civilization in managing complex societal structures.