On the Writing Systems of Ancient Peru: The Possibility of the Quellqa and the Quipu as an Instrument of Power of the Incas
On the Writing Systems of Ancient Peru: The Possibility of the Quellqa and the Quipu as an Instrument of Power of the Incas

Summary/Abstract: The focus is laid on the role and significance of both the knot-scriptquipu and the hypothetical writing system quellqa in the governing of the Incan state, and also on the reasons why the Incas preferred the quipu to a more flexible system of writing. The author uses data from the chronicles of the period of Spanish conquest and views from scientific researchers.It is probable that the use of quellqa was banned by the order of Inca Pachacutec Yupanqui or Inca Tupac Yupanqui around 1470 in connection with the subjugation of the powerful Chimú state in northern Peru and among its allies. The aim of the Incas was to prevent a wider spread of this system of information exchange, which was readily available and convenient to use.In its stead, the Incas favoured the use of the traditional mnemotechnical device quipu, which was known to the previous civilisations in Peru, because its practical uses were limited. The teaching, learning, and use of the quipu were subjected to the strict control of a special organ of government. This served the political interests of the early totalitarian state.

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