Systems of Record Keeping: Quipu

Quipus were created by the Incas in the Andes. The Incas did not have a written language or a formal writing system. They used Quipus as a form of communication as well as a way to keep records. Quipus were cords of various colors with knots tied into them; all formed around a main cord. Every knot represented a decimal unit from 10 to 100. Quipus were typically made from llamas or cotton. The Incas used different colored cords to determine different concepts and objects. For example a black rope represented war. The Inca Empire was a civilization under one rule but spread throughout four kingdoms. To rule under all four kingdoms the Incas used Quipus to communicate with the other kingdoms to stay in sync. They would use runners to spread and share records such as messages, laws, and show newly conquered land. Because of Quipus historians today can decode them and understand the records the Incas took during their prime.

This is a traditional Quipu and you can see theVarious colors and knots

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