Quipu
by Yulianna Torres
Quipu is an Incan accounting apparatus consisting of a long rope from which hung 48 secondary cords and various tertiary cords attached to the secondary ones. Knots were made in the cords to represent units. In imperial accounting, the cords were differently coloured to designate the different concerns of government such as tribute, lands, economic productivity, ceremonies, and matters relating to war and peace. The quipus were created and maintained as historical records and were kept by high officials at the capital of Cuzco, regional commanders, and village headmen. Since Incan societies didn't have a system of writing; Quipu was their way of comunication.