644. The Fall of the Incas: Empire of Gold (Part 1)

The podcast explores the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire, framing it as a sequel to the conquest of Mexico. It introduces Francisco Pizarro, an illiterate conquistador from Extremadura, and contrasts him with Hernán Cortés. Pizarro's early life, his ventures in the Caribbean, and his partnership with Diego de Almagro are detailed, highlighting the violent context of the era. The narrative covers Pizarro's expeditions down the Pacific coast, the discovery of the Inca civilization, and his eventual securing of royal approval for conquest. The discussion also delves into Inca society, its unique characteristics like the absence of writing and markets, and the internal strife caused by a succession crisis and disease, setting the stage for the Spanish invasion.