Which crop was the Inca civilization the first to harvest?

The Inca civilization is well-known for being the first to cultivate and widely harvest potatoes, which have an important history in the Andes region and significantly contributed to their agricultural practices. Potatoes were domesticated over 7,000 years ago in present-day Peru, making them a staple food for the Inca people. The various cultivars of potatoes that evolved in high-altitude environments showcase the adaptation and innovation of Inca agricultural techniques.

This agricultural success was vital for sustaining their large empire, as potatoes provided a versatile and nutritious food source that could be stored for long periods, thus providing food security. The Inca's sophisticated farming methods, including terrace farming, allowed them to increase potato production and expand their influence in the region. This distinguishes them as critical pioneers in the cultivation of this essential crop.

In contrast, although maize, beans, and quinoa were cultivated in Mesoamerican and Andean societies, the Inca civilization is specifically renowned for its early and large-scale cultivation of potatoes, which had a profound impact on their society and the world.