The siege of Cusco in 1536 saw Manco Inca mobilize an army of 200,000 warriors to challenge the Spanish occupation of his empire. Originally installed as a puppet emperor by Francisco Pizarro, he transitioned from a collaborator to the founder of the independent Neo-Inca State in Vilcabamba, resisting colonial expansion for nearly a decade.
Rise to the Imperial Throne
Born in Cusco in 1515, Manco Inca was among the numerous sons of Huayna Cápac. Following the death of his brother and the massacre of supporters of the Huáscar faction, he sought refuge from the forces of Atahualpa. In November 1533, he aligned with Francisco Pizarro, initially viewing the Spanish contingent as divine liberators. This alliance was solidified when Pizarro had regional leaders recognize Manco as their legitimate monarch.
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The relationship between Manco and the Pizarro brothers deteriorated quickly due to systemic abuse. After failed attempts to escape, he fled to Ollantaytambo in 1537, where he achieved a tactical victory against Spanish forces. Realizing the strategic necessity of a remote base, he retreated into the jungle to establish the Neo-Inca State in Vilcabamba. From this stronghold, he directed guerrilla campaigns against Spanish garrisons and their allies, including the Wankas, until his final years.
Assassination and Legacy
During his final years in the mountain center of Vitcos, Manco provided sanctuary to supporters of Diego de Almagro who were fleeing the fallout of the conquistador civil wars. These refugees murdered Manco in 1544, though they were immediately executed by his guards. He was succeeded by his son, Sayri Tupaq, and his remains were later interred at the Temple of the Sun in Vilcabamba.
Fast facts
- Born: 1515, Cusco
- Died: 1545, Vilcabamba
- Title: Sapa Inca
- Known as: Manco II and Manco Cápac II
- Notable conflict: Siege of Cusco
- Language: Classical Quechua
- Dynastic predecessor: Huayna Cápac
- Dynastic successor: Sayri Tupaq
Questions readers ask
Why did Manco Inca initially support the Spanish?
He believed the Spanish were saviors sent by the gods after witnessing their arrival and the defeat of Atahualpa.
What was the significance of the Vilcabamba retreat?
It allowed for the establishment of an independent Neo-Inca State that continued to resist Spanish rule for decades after his death.
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