The Nile River: Egypt Is The Gift Of The Nile

It was no wonder that Herodotus claimed, “Egypt is the gift of the Nile.” Arguably one of the greatest ancient river civilizations, Egypt thrived on the banks of the fertile Nile river. Not only did the Nile provide a fresh water source for the rapidly growing civilization, but it also supplied an abundant source of food and means of transportation. Anual flooding ensured nutrient-rich soil, and complex irrigation systems nurtured he crops, leading to abundant harvests. The convenient channel also promoted trade, expediting civilization’s development. The Nile was the most sustaining, influential river in the Ancient World. With year after year of crops planted along the Nile banks, it would make sense that the soil would become stripped of

Boats were made of papyrus reeds or wooden planks, and often carried loads of grain, livestock, and stone. Long boats were made of cedar and juniper trees, which became completely airtight when the wood expanded in the water. Because of the convenience of water travel, all of Egypt’s major cities were built along the banks of the Nile, making communication almost effortless between cities. The Nile’s unique wind and water currents also distinguish it among other major rivers. The prevailing winds blow from north to south, while the water current runs from south to north. Although the wind currents were not entirely reliable or predictable, they greatly increased the ease of transportation up and down the river. Water travel was also only done by day, because the shallow water and shifting sand deposits made travels hazardous at night. “Wherever there was a town, there was trade.” Because the majority of Egyptians were farmers, they traded mostly wheat and other fresh produce in exchange for metal tools, clay wares, and spices. Animals and handcrafted baskets were also commonly traded, sold in stands set up by individual households. Deben, a series of standard weights, where used to assign value to objects. They were half-sphere rounds make of copper, commonly carried by traders. The Nile river facilitated trade and also provided a highway for transportation through the heart of