- Mesopotamia's geography, with its fertile land, rivers, and access to the sea, facilitated trade and cultural diffusion.
- The Nile River's annual flooding provided rich soil and water for Egypt's agriculture.
- The mountains of Greece contributed to the development of independent city-states.
Climate
- The warm, dry climate of the Mediterranean region was ideal for agriculture and outdoor living.
- The monsoons of India brought seasonal rains that supported agriculture.
- The harsh winters of northern Europe encouraged the development of strong, close-knit communities.
Natural Resources
- Access to copper and tin in the Fertile Crescent allowed for the development of bronze and other technologies.
- The abundance of stone in Greece was used for building temples and other structures.
- The forests of northern Europe provided timber for building and making tools.
Trade and Transportation
- The Mediterranean Sea served as a highway for trade and cultural exchange between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- The Nile River facilitated transportation and trade between Upper and Lower Egypt.
- The Silk Road connected China with the Middle East and Europe, promoting cultural exchange.