Tupac Yupanqui

Tupac Yupanqui was the eleventh leader of the Incan Empire, ruling between 1471 and 1493. Around 1480, historical texts credit Tupac Yupanqui with a ten month exploration of the Pacific Ocean where he came across two islands he named Nina Chumpi (Fire Island) and Hahua Chumpi (Outer Island).

While many historians are sceptical as to the truth behind this voyage, some believe that Fire Island and Outer Island were in fact part of the Galapagos Islands. 

Galapagos People: Tupac Yupanqui © Brooklyn Museum

Tupac Yupanqui, the Eleventh Inca © Brooklyn Museum Collection

Glossary of Galapagos