Researchers have uncovered significant new evidence suggesting that the ancient Inca civilization’s record-keeping system was more inclusive than previously thought. The findings indicate that commoners were involved in the creation of khipus, intricate knotted cords used to document economic, religious, and historical information during the Inca Empire, which thrived from approximately 1400 to 1532.
Traditionally, it was believed that only elite officials, known for their high status, possessed the skills to construct khipus. This notion stemmed largely from accounts provided by Spanish chroniclers during the colonial period, who described khipu makers as high-ranking bureaucrats enjoying privileges such as fine food and drink. The role of the khipu maker, referred to as khipu kamayuq, combined the functions of author and scribe, infusing each khipu with personal significance.
Commoners’ Role in Khipu Creation
A team led by Sabine Hyland, a Professor of Social Anthropology at the University of St Andrews, has brought forth compelling evidence that challenges the established understanding of khipu literacy. The research highlights that some khipus were signed with locks of hair from their makers, a significant finding in Inca culture, where hair was seen as a vessel of identity and essence.
During an investigation in the highland village of Jucul, Peru, the team analyzed over 90 ancestral khipus, some dating back centuries. They discovered that human hair attached to the primary cord of these khipus represented the individuals responsible for their creation. This aligns with earlier studies showing that herders in the region tied their own hair to khipus, effectively signing their work and indicating responsibility for the recorded information.
For example, a khipu from the Andean community of Collata features strips of a leader’s insignia scarf tied to the primary cord, signifying the authority of its author. Conversely, when information pertained to multiple individuals, distinct bands of pendants or hair from various people indicated their contributions.
Insights from the Khipu KH0631
Among the notable findings is khipu KH0631, which features a primary cord made entirely of human hair from a single individual. This discovery marks a first in khipu research, as previous examinations have not focused on the presence of hair. The hair, measuring 104 cm in length and folded over, suggests it represents over eight years of growth, based on the average rate of hair growth.
To further understand the individual behind KH0631, the research team conducted simultaneous carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur isotope analyses of a sample taken from the end of the hair. The presence of the C4 isotope indicates a diet based on maize, while nitrogen levels provide insights into meat consumption. The results showed that the individual had a low-status diet, primarily consisting of tubers and greens, with minimal meat or maize. This finding contradicts the long-held belief that only elite members of society crafted khipus.
The isotopic analysis also revealed that this person likely resided in the highlands of southern Peru or northern Chile, at elevations between 2,600 and 2,800 meters above sea level. This geographical data adds another layer to the understanding of khipu makers, suggesting that they may have come from diverse backgrounds, further debunking the notion of khipu literacy being exclusive to the elite.
Through this groundbreaking research, Hyland and her team have provided evidence that khipus were not solely the domain of high-ranking officials. Instead, it appears that commoners played a significant role in the creation and documentation processes, suggesting that literacy in khipus was more widespread in the Inca Empire than previously acknowledged. The findings open new avenues for understanding the socio-economic structure of ancient Andean societies and their intricate record-keeping systems.
