Geography And Geographical Factors In The Development Of Civilizations

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Geography is a decisive factor in many different aspects of human life and development and it has played a major role in battles, building, cultural events and the development of civilization. Geography refers to all the physical features and resources in any area. The features and resources available, or unavailable, in a certain area can pose certain advantages as well as disadvantages to the development of civilizations and cultures. Weather patterns, naturally available resources and topography are all geographical factors that were highly influential in the development of civilization. The weather patterns, or climate, or a region will determine not only if civilization can develop but also how it will. Looking at the rise of civilizations in different regions of the world throughout history it is clear that no two are the same which is partially due to their climate. The climate will play a factor in what kinds of food are available to the people, both wild and domestic, the type of shelter necessary for people to live and even how cities are planned and built. Take the Indus and Mesopotamian civilizations for example. The Indus Valley is located in an area that receives a lot of excess rainfall therefore the cities of the Indus Valley were designed with drainage systems in mind (Craig). The cities that rose in Mesopotamia however, didn’t have to worry about such a problem since very little rain falls annually. …show more content…

It provides the means and ability for civilized people to build and rise but it also determines where and how. For this reason the people of Indus River Valley and those of Middle Eastern deserts have different ideals and cultures. Geography can force two civilizations together or keep them separated oblivious each other's existence. It can help to protect them from harm or aid in their destruction but no matter what it will always influence their

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