Final answer:
The Tiwanaku Empire was considered a predatory state due to its expansionist strategies, using conquest and trade to access various resources and asserting dominance over subordinate regions. Religion played a crucial role in both symbolizing and legitimizing the Tiwanaku state's power through impressive architecture and ceremonies.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Tiwanaku Empire, which flourished from 300 to 1150 CE near Lake Titicaca, is described historically as a "predatory state" because of its expansionist and dominance-based economic practices. The empire extended its influence over vast territories through both direct colonial control and a network of trade relationships that allowed access to diverse and vital resources such as food and raw materials. This territorial expansion often involved subjugation of other peoples and cultures, reminiscent of predation.
The role of religion in Tiwanaku was significant, as it was deeply intertwined with the state's expansion and governance strategies. Their monumental architecture, including structures adorned with trophy heads, served not only as a religious center but also as a symbol of power and control. These trophies likely represented the Tiwanaku elite's ancestors or the gods of conquered groups, symbolizing the empire's might and perhaps even legitimizing their rule over subjugated peoples through divine favor. Impressive religious ceremonies and festivals likely bolstered this image of power and helped to integrate subject populations into the Tiwanaku state.