Geography of EGYPT Land of the Pharaohs

The “Creator of all good” The Nile, like the Euphrates and the Tigris, was fundamental to the development of Egyptian civilization as it brought food and other riches. Reflection Question: How does the growth of Fredericton compare to the early civilizations of Mesopotamia and Egypt?

THE NILE RIVER Every year floods cover the banks of the Nile River with rich soil- which makes it a perfect spot for growing crops. It provided drinking water. It was a “natural highway” that linked communities together.

Red Land Deserts lie to the east and west of the Nile Valley. The Egyptians called this the Redland. These deserts provided protection from invasion. They were a source of copper, gold, and granite- used for building, jewelry, tools, weapons…etc…

black land The fertile land surrounding the Nile River was known as the Blackland, because of the rich, black mud left on the banks after a flood from heavy rains in central Africa.

Upper and Lower Egypt Upper Egypt was marked by the Nile River Valley, and was surrounded by the deserts. It was referred to as Ta-shema.

Nile Cataracts Cataracts are shallow parts of a river that can be classified as rapids. During the dry season these rapids are impassable by boat but during the flood season boats can pass easily.

The Nile Delta Lower Egypt was marked by different branches of the Nile River which created a fertile triangular plain. It was referred to as The Nile Delta. It was important for trade routes and emptied into the Mediterranean Sea.

Egypt & Mesopotamia Unlike Mesopotamia which was subject to constant invasions, Egypt was blessed with the natural barriers of the desert to protect from invasion. Because of this protection, and isolation, Egyptian society and culture was marked by a remarkable degree of continuity over thousands of year.

Question To Consider Did Mesopotamia experience similar consistencies with culture and societies like the Egyptians?