Inca Economy
The Inca economy was simple and based upon the strict control of natural resources through a tax called a mita. Agricultural land and labor, as well as gold, silver and copper mines were carefully managed so that the Inca rulers could keep things moving the way they wanted. The mita played a critical role in maintaining the empire by pressurizing its subjects into massive building and irrigation projects.
Inca social Structure
The Inca social structure seems to be less about class structure and more about creating an atmosphere of physical well-being with no interest in equality. This system seemed to be universally tolerated and was fairly common in many societies.
At the top was the Emperor and his family, descendants of the original Inca and founders of Cuzco. They lived in luxury and their offspring held the best positions in government.
Next came the nobles, or public administrators. They ran the government at the lower level, collecting taxes, keeping records and leading their tribes. If they were loyal, they kept their jobs.
Peasant families or commoners were allotted land by the state. They worked the land to supply their own needs but also to pay taxes. Males of the household took turns working for the administration in the fields, by building infrastructure or serving in the army.
At the top was the Emperor and his family, descendants of the original Inca and founders of Cuzco. They lived in luxury and their offspring held the best positions in government.
Next came the nobles, or public administrators. They ran the government at the lower level, collecting taxes, keeping records and leading their tribes. If they were loyal, they kept their jobs.
Peasant families or commoners were allotted land by the state. They worked the land to supply their own needs but also to pay taxes. Males of the household took turns working for the administration in the fields, by building infrastructure or serving in the army.