On November 4, 1780, José Gabriel Condorcanqui, better known as Túpac Amaru II, started one of the largest indigenous revolts in the colonial history of South America. He rose up against Spanish oppression in the Viceroyalty of Peru, seeking justice and freedom for indigenous and mestizo peoples oppressed by the colonial system.

Túpac Amaru II was a descendant of the last Inca emperor, Túpac Amaru, executed by the Spanish in 1572. Inspired by the heritage of his ancestors and outraged by the injustices he witnessed, he decided to take a stand against colonial abuses, such as forced labor, tributes exorbitant costs and the unrestrained exploitation of local resources.

The revolt began in the region of Tinta, near Cuzco, when Túpac Amaru II captured and executed Antonio Arriaga, a Spanish magistrate known for his brutality. This act of resistance quickly attracted thousands of followers, including indigenous people, mestizos and even some creoles dissatisfied with the colonial administration.

During the first few months, the revolt enjoyed significant success. The insurgents took over several cities and villages, inflicting severe defeats on the colonial forces. Túpac Amaru II sought independence, but also profound social reforms, such as the abolition of mita (forced labor) and oppressive taxes.

However, the Spanish response was brutal and relentless. In April 1781, after months of intense fighting, Túpac Amaru II was captured along with his family and his main followers. He was subjected to a summary trial and sentenced to death in an extremely cruel way, to serve as an example and discourage future revolts. On May 18, 1781, he was publicly dismembered in the square of Cuzco, but his execution only served to strengthen the spirit of resistance among the indigenous peoples.

The Túpac Amaru II Revolt failed to achieve its immediate goals, but it had a lasting impact. It inspired other rebellions and independence movements in Latin America, contributing to the eventual fall of Spanish colonial rule. Túpac Amaru II is remembered as a hero and martyr, a symbol of the fight against oppression and the search for justice and freedom.