The Fall of the Incas: The Last Emperor (Part 6) - The Rest Is History Recap

Podcast: The Rest Is History

Published: 2026-03-05

Duration: 1 hr 12 min

Summary

This episode delves into the aftermath of Atahualpa's death and the ensuing chaos among the Spanish conquistadors, highlighting the fractured alliances and the desperate measures taken by Manco, the last Incan emperor, as he fights for survival against his Spanish adversaries.

What Happened

The episode opens with a reflection on the dire state of Peru following Atahualpa's death, painting a grim picture of a land marked by greed and loss. The narrator, Martin from Peter Schaffer's play, captures the somber reality of the conquest: 'We arrived. We had a brilliant time. We ruined everything for everybody. And then we all died.' This sentiment resonates deeply with the historical accounts of the conquest, where joy is overshadowed by the ruin left in the wake of colonial greed.

As the story unfolds, we find ourselves in mid-1537, where Manco, Atahualpa's successor, has fled to the jungles of the Vilcabamba Valley. The Spanish conquistadors, led by Francisco Pizarro and Diego de Almagro, are embroiled in their own power struggles, with the number of conquistadors in Peru increasing to about 4,000. Almagro, who feels sidelined by Pizarro, is poised to confront him but first must deal with the threat Manco poses. He dispatches Rodrigo Ogonias to hunt Manco down, but their looting of a temple and the distractions it brings ultimately delay their pursuit.

Manco's survival is precarious as he navigates the dangers of the jungle while the Spanish forces close in. Almagro's troops, initially focused on capturing Manco, become sidetracked by the allure of riches, further complicating the situation. As tensions rise among the Spanish and the Incan resistance continues, the stage is set for a dramatic showdown between these two factions, encapsulating the broader conflicts of ambition, survival, and greed that define this tumultuous period in history.

Key Insights

• Historical narratives often overlook the contributions of women during significant events.
• The aftermath of Atahualpa's death reveals the internal divisions among Spanish conquistadors.
• Martin's reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the destructive legacy of colonialism.
• The allure of wealth can lead to critical distractions in military pursuits.

Key Questions Answered

What happened to Atahualpa after his capture?

Atahualpa's death marked a turning point in the conquest of the Incas. His execution led to a power vacuum and chaos among the remaining Incan leadership, paving the way for Manco's ascent as the last emperor. This shift significantly impacted the dynamics of power in Peru, as the Spanish aimed to capitalize on the fractured Incan society.

How did the Spanish conquistadors' greed affect their actions?

The Spanish conquistadors' insatiable greed often led to disunity among their ranks. As seen in the episode, their desire for gold distracted them from their military objectives, causing internal conflicts and undermining their efforts against the Inca resistance. This greed ultimately contributed to their downfall as they became increasingly divided.

What strategies did Manco use to evade capture?

Manco's strategies included retreating to the jungle, utilizing local geography to his advantage, and employing tactics to slow down his pursuers. By leaving behind obstacles and rearguard troops, he aimed to create enough distance from the Spanish forces, allowing him to regroup and plan his next moves amidst the chaos.

What role did Almagro play in the Spanish conquest?

Almagro served as a key figure in the conquest, initially allied with Pizarro but later becoming embroiled in conflict due to feelings of betrayal. His ambitions to control Cusco and confront Pizarro led to significant tensions that ultimately fractured the Spanish forces, showcasing the personal rivalries that complicated their conquest efforts.

How does Peter Schaffer's play reflect historical events?

Peter Schaffer's play, The Royal Hunt of the Sun, encapsulates the themes of greed, loss, and moral ambiguity surrounding the Spanish conquest. Through Martin's narration, the play critiques imperialism and highlights the devastating impact of colonial endeavors, echoing historical accounts and sentiments of regret from those who participated in the conquest.