Shira Weiss1/2/14Ecuador Research PaperEcuador is a democratic country in South America with a long history. Its capital, Quito, is home to the equator, the center of our world. The country's highlights range from mountains and valleys to beaches and rainforests. It is the site of many historic moments and unique museums. It is one of the most natural places on Earth. Ecuador is an amazing country. The first inhabitants of Ecuador lived there in 10,000 BCE. They were hunters and gatherers who lived on the southern coast and central highlands. In 3200 BCE, three agricultural societies were established. These companies created some of the oldest known pottery and traded with Amazonian tribes, Brazil and Peru. Large cities formed in 500 BCE along the Ecuadorian coast, specializing in metalworking and shipping. These coastal towns traded with the Mayan tribe. In 1460 CE, the Inca ruler Tupac-Yupanqui pierced Ecuador from the south. The Ecuadorian Canari, Quitu and Caras tribes fought back. The Incas were extremely advanced and had developed cities, highways, and even mail systems. It seemed inevitable that they would win against the Ecuadorian tribes, but miraculously, the tribes defeated Tupac-Yupanqui's army. Tupac-Yupanqui's son, Huayna Capac, conquered Ecuador shortly after his father's defeat. Soon after, the tribes began speaking the Inca language of Quechua, which is still spoken today in Ecuador. Capac decrees that a large city be built for him in Tomebamba. He died in 1526 and divided his lands between his sons, leaving Atahualpa in the north and Huascar in the south. The Spanish arrived that same year, sparking a civil war between the brothers for total control. Francis... middle of paper ... There is a passionate sports community in Ecuador. Football, or soccer in American terms, is very common in Ecuador. The national football team, coached by Reinaldo Rueda, earned the nickname the tri, or tricolor, because of its yellow, blue and red uniforms. Their FIFA ranking is currently #23 in the world. Their best FIFA ranking to date was 10th in April 2013. They won second place at the FIFA World Cup in 2002 and 2006. In conclusion, Ecuador is one of the most incredibly beautiful countries and the richest in history and culture in the world. It has remained a strong country despite losses and victories from pre-Inca times until today. It is home to countless museums and natural wonders as well as the center of the world, the equator. It has strong artistic values ​​and a respected football team. Ecuador is truly a country of beauty, strength and passion.