Why did civilizations grow and prosper along major rivers? How did the growth of civilizations change societies?

Thinking Question Why were Rivers important for the growth and prosperity of civilizations?

Rivers offered a continuous supply of water that was need to farm on a large scale to supply food for a large population. Irrigation and canals proved to be very effective for farming on a large scale. Rivers offered fertile soil to grow crops in. Rivers offered a food source of their own. Rivers provided for a means of Transportation for exporting and importing goods.

Vocabulary Civilization Irrigation Empire Artisans Government merchant

Vocabulary Civilization – a form of culture characterized by cities, specialized workers, complex institutions, record keeping, and advanced technology. Irrigation – artificial means of diverting water from its source to other areas for farming. Empire – a political unit in which a number of peoples or countries are controlled by a single ruler.

Vocabulary Artisan – skilled worker, such as a weaver or potter, who makes goods by hand Government – control and administration of public policy in a political unit Merchant – one who buys and sells goods.

Instructional Strategy(s) Why did people settle along major rivers? (Discuss and write answers on the board) How would the growth of large populations of people effect things? (Discuss and write answers on the board)

A Surplus of Food A thriving agricultural society made it possible /necessary for the following – governments, artisans, merchants, well defined social classes, cities, temples, record keeping, advanced technologies.

Need for Rivers / River Valleys Rivers offered a continuous supply of water that was need to farm on a large scale to supply food for a large population. Irrigation and canals proved to be very effective for farming on a large scale. Rivers offered fertile soil to grow crops in. Rivers offered a food source of their own. Rivers provided for a means of Transportation for exporting and importing goods.

Civilizations * Forming of cities * A surplus of food allowed for specialized workers / artisan * Complex institutions / governments form * Record keeping and writing are needed * Advanced technology / a need to make things better, faster, and cheaper.

Relevancy Our major cities in our world attract people for different reasons. Our cities of today are like the great river valleys of old and provide the things needed by the people to make life better. As cities / states grow and prosper there is a need for political, social, economic, and cultural order.

Close Do you need a major rivers to create a successful civilization?

Exit ticket Quiz – List and describe 4 reasons why major rivers were important to a successful civilization.