The powerful Inca empire, at the time…

The powerful Inca empire, at the time of contact with the Old World, controls an estimated twelve million people in much of present Peru and Ecuador as well as in large parts of Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina.

The empire extends along the spine of the Andes from the River Maule in south central Chile to the northern border of present Ecuador.

The Spaniards under Francisco Pizarro, comprising sixty-two horsemen and one hundred and six foot soldiers, had explored northwestern South America in 1524-1526.

Smallpox had been taken to the continent, causing disaster for the Incas.

Sapa Inca Huayna Capac had traveled north from Cusco to investigate the strangers.

Although he never met any Spaniards, he contracted smallpox and died in 1524.

His eldest son and heir, Ninan Cuyochi, died soon after him.

Thus it became uncertain as to who should be the next Inca king, as there were no clear rules of succession.

The choice stood between two sons of Huayna Capac, Huáscar, and Atahualpa, born of different mothers.

Huáscar, who had been appointed king by Huayna Capac, is supported by the nobility in Cusco, by religious and political authorities and other main figures.

He is the eldest "pure" Inca, because his parents, Huayna Capac and Chincha Ocllo, were siblings.

Huascar is ill tempered, suspicious and disrespectful of the laws and customs.