USA HISTORY

Detailed explanation-1: -In especially uncertain times, such as when an emperor died, or when volcanoes erupted or severe earthquakes or famine struck, priests sacrificed captured warriors or specially raised, perfectly formed children to the gods.

Detailed explanation-2: -Child sacrifice, referred to as capacocha or qhapaq hucha, was an important part of the Inca religion and was often used to commemorate important events, such as the death of a Sapa Inca.

Detailed explanation-3: -Sacrifice, human or animal, was offered on every important occasion; guinea pigs (more properly cui), llamas, certain foods, coca leaves, and chicha (an intoxicant corn beverage) were all used in sacrifices. Many sacrifices were daily occurrences for the ritual of the sun’s appearance.

Detailed explanation-4: -Hair and fingernail examination suggests Inca children were drugged to keep them calm before being sacrificed. A team of researchers from Poland, the U.S. and Peru has found evidence that suggests Inca children selected for sacrifice were given drugs to keep them calm prior to their deaths.

Detailed explanation-5: -The Incas believed the gods had to be kept happy through worship. They held many religious festivals throughout the year, and these involved music, dancing, food, and human sacrifices. The Incas also mummified their dead, since they believed their ancestors continued to watch over the living.