Final answer:
The Incan kings, or Sapa Incas, included Pachacuti (1438-1471), his son Tupac Inca Yupanqui (1471-1493), and the last Sapa Inca, Túpac Amaru (1545-1572). They played crucial roles in the expansion and resistance of the Inca Empire.
Step-by-step explanation:
Who was the Incan King?
The Incan civilization was led by a powerful ruler known as the Sapa Inca, who wielded autocratic power over both state and religious affairs. Across its history, many rulers, or Sapa Incas, presided over the expansion and governance of the Inca Empire. The first significant expansion under Incan rule began with Pachacuti, who reigned from 1438-1471. His victories, such as the one against the Chimor, allowed the Inca Empire to grow. Pachacuti was succeeded by his son, Tupac Inca Yupanqui (1471-1493), known for his military leadership and further expansion of the empire. The last ruler was Túpac Amaru, who reigned 1545-1572 and was the Sapa Inca in Vilcabamba after Cusco fell to the Spanish. He continued to resist the Spanish until his capture and execution in 1572. Pre-conquest Inca history, including the reign of these kings, has been captured through the chronicling work of Guaman Poma, an indigenous Inca historian.