The History Book Club discussion

Well, I will just simply say that if anyone had reason to rebel, they certainly did.

I thought it was interesting that despite having greater numbers the Incas again did not succeed in defeating the Spanish.

Also, as a side note, I found the will written by Juan Pizarro in the midst of the fighting to be a fascinating document. I liked learning what was important to him at that moment when he was faced with death.

the will was really interesting, especially the mention of his daughter and her mother.

I haven't gotten to the end of the chapter yet, but despite the best and really great efforts of the incas, the Spanish have only lost 1 man. I'm curious to see the aftermath of all this. especially the fate of manco inca

When I read the will I was left wondering if his brother paid the dowry money to the daughter or not. It seems like it would be an easy request to ignore given the circumstances.

I finally caught up again after a few crazy weeks at work. I think the only reason that the Spanish were able to put down the Inca rebellion was that they built the ladders. Old technology for the Spanish, but apparently not something the Incas thought about. However, it does seem like the did a great job building the fort otherwise. I glad the Incas finally decided they had had enough of the Spanish.

the incas did a whole sacrificial ritual involving a Llama if I remember correctly. the Spanish just prayed I think. I'm sure there's more, that's just off the top of my head.

That the Spanish survived in these circumstances at all strikes me as mind-boggling. Was it that hard for tens of thousands (or more) warriors to ambush a few conquistadors and acquire their weapons and horses?

The will to continue strategizing and not passively accept what looked like hopeless circumstances is also remarkable. The Spanish grasped what was a thread of a hope, and apparently it worked.

Perhaps the Inca were overconfident? Felt they didn't have to rush as victory was a sure thing?