Although first developed by John Murra, Rostworowski effectively applied and popularized the idea that Andean groups controlled multiple ecological floors (coast, highlands, jungle) simultaneously. An ethnic group living at 3,000 meters would own colonies on the coast to get corn, chili peppers, and cotton, and colonies in the montaña for coca and tropical fruits. The Incas weaponized this system for imperial control.
Rostworowski’s work is essential because she utilized Spanish chronicles but read them "between the lines" to find the indigenous voice. She proved that the fall of the Incas wasn't just due to Spanish superior weaponry, but to the fact that many local ethnic groups (like the Huancas and Cañaris) actively fought alongside the Spanish to liberate themselves from Inca rule. maria rostworowski historia del tahuantinsuyo pdf