Which civilization developed a vast empire in Peru?

The Inca civilization developed a vast empire in Peru, known for its remarkable engineering, architecture, and extensive road networks that connected various regions of the empire. The Incas ruled from the early 15th century until the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. Their capital, Cusco, was a major political and cultural center, and they are well known for their agricultural innovations, including terraced farming and advanced irrigation techniques, which allowed them to thrive in the challenging Andean environment.

In contrast, the Aztecs were primarily located in what is now central Mexico and are recognized for their powerful city-state, Tenochtitlan, but did not extend into Peru. The Maya civilization, known for its advancements in mathematics, astronomy, and writing, thrived in Mesoamerica, particularly in present-day Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, rather than in the Andes region. The Olmecs, often regarded as the mother culture of Mesoamerica, existed earlier and had a significant influence on later civilizations, but they were not known for a vast empire in Peru either. Thus, the Inca's dominance in Peru sets them apart as the correct answer to the question.