---
node: sa_tupac_katari
type: person
slug: tupac_katari
title: "Túpac Katari"
lead: "Túpac Katari (c. 1750–1781) was an Aymara leader who led a massive Indigenous rebellion against Spanish rule in the Andes. He is a lasting symbol of Indigenous resistance in Bolivia."
published: 2026-07-13
updated: 2026-07-13
image_file: tupac_katari.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tupac_Catari_(cropped).jpg"
image_author: "Unknown"
image_license: "Public domain"
---

## Who they were

Born Julián Apaza, he took a name honoring the Inca rebels Túpac Amaru and Tomás Katari. In 1781 he led Aymara forces in a long siege of the colonial city of La Paz.

## What they did

His rebellion, alongside that of Túpac Amaru II, shook Spanish control across the southern Andes. It drew on deep grievances over tribute, forced labor, and abuse.

## Legacy

Túpac Katari was captured and brutally executed in 1781, reportedly vowing that he would return as millions. His name endures as a rallying symbol of Indigenous and Bolivian movements.