Binary Code developed by the Incas
Binary Code developed by the Incas
(OP)
Hello,
Here is an interesting link regarding a theory that the Ancient Incas developed a binary code system using knotted strings known as Khipus:
http://khipukamayuq.fas.harvard.edu/
Here is a Khipu that was used for accounting:
http://khipukamayuq.fas.harvard.edu/Puruchuco.html
Currently a database has been developed to try to decipher the Khipu code.
Kind regards,
Joseph





RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
I have heard about quipu. They sound similar to what the ancient Sumericans did to record transactions. They created little clay figurines to represent stuff merchants transported. If I let you drive thirty six of my sheep to my customer at a market, he would be able to figure out how many sheep I sent.
This is the basis for the system of writing they eventually developed.
JHG
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
Here is a link on the Sumerian script and math:
http://www.ancientscripts.com/sumerian.html
You are right this is similar to the Khipu in the sense that it was used to record transactions. There is a theory that the Khipu eventually became a written system, as well.
Unfortunately, all this information was lost during the Spanish conquest. Right now several scientists are trying to "break" the Khipu code.
Regards,
Joseph
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
Dik
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
Dik
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
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A very good question is why no one uses base 6, which would get you to 35, without having to worry about gestures.
Cheers
Greg Locock
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips.
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
Yupana, the counting board of the Incas.
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
Are you sure you are not thinking of the Mayans?
Definitely, the Mayans had a system of writing. Almost all of their books were located and burned by the Spanish Inquisition. No one knows what we lost.
There have been civilizations in Peru for thousands of years, but the Incas were very recent. Their empire was something like a century old. They may not have had time to develop writing.
JHG
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
Knowing American Sign Language allows me to count with my hands to a very large number also. By glancing at that website, it looks like a form of sign language.
--Scott
http://wertel.eng.pro
RE: Binary Code developed by the Incas
Hi JHG,
You are right the Mayas definitely had a system of writing. If I am not mistaken their system was deciphered, please see this link:
http://www.ancientscripts.com/maya.html
The Khipus were actually used well before the Incas by other Pre-Inca civilizations. Although it is only a theory at this point, it is possible that the Khipus eventually developed into a system of writing.
thanks,
Joseph