in the Spread of Tiwanaku
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Throughout history there have been many theories about Tiwanaku, its transformation into a state, and the spread of its influence. We believe that ideology played an important part in the expansion of the state. This can be seen in archaeological evidence such as pottery and textiles showing the spread of iconography, religious monuments, and the lack of militaristic artifacts.
The ideology of Tiwanaku originated in Chavin de Huantar, but throughout their conquests they assimilated other smaller communities' religious icons. They conquered not through militaristic force, but through political and religious relationships. Areas of influence throughout the state varied in degrees of proximity to the city of Tiwanaku. The architecture of Tiwanaku displays how they perceived themselves in relation to their landscape and other peoples such as the Wari. Although Tiwanaku collapsed, their ideology continued to influence future states and empires.
