Mathematical Influences from the Inca Empire

Abstract

The influences in the mathematical world from various pre-Hispanic civilizations such as the Inca, Maya, and Aztec are vast. We have investigated the mathematics used by the Incas in creating the quipu, which are knotted cords used as an accounting system. An ancient calculating device believed to be related to the quipu is the yupana. We also studied the Nazca Lines. These lines consist of various large animal shapes, straight lines, and geometrical shapes which are throughout the desert area in Peru. There are many mathematical applications found in these lines dealing with geometry and geometric figures, and proportions and relations.