The chronicler Pedro Sarmiento de Gamboa wrote a history of the Incas in 1571 proving that they had been tyrants. This was necessary to convince the king that he had every right to appropriate their lands, riches, and peoples. It is an excellent example of how a representation does not necessarily have to match what actually happened when political issues are at stake. This article analyzes that twisted representation and explores the motives Sarmiento had for 'kuaka' to authenticate his version.