Nile Information

4,145 miles: longest river in the world
Flows south to north.

Forms a fan-shaped delta at northern end. 
Most ancient Egyptians lived in the delta.

In Mid-July the river flooded leaving behind rich soil.
Farmers planted while the soil was wet.
Planted flax, wheat, , grapes.

Irrigated by using a shadoof to lift water.

Egyptians were protected by geography: desert, sea, waterfalls (cataracts)

The Nile River Valley is Surrounded on Four Sides by Natural Barriers

1. Red Sea to the East
2. Dessert to the West
3. Mediterranean to the North
4. Mountains to the South

The Nile River Valley has Natural Advantages

1. Frost Free Climate

The Nile River Valley has "Gifts of the Nile"

1. Predictable flooding
2. Mild flooding therefore able to use river for irrigation
3. Prevailing winds made trade possible both north and south on the river
4. Rich deposits of clay, granite, sandstone and limestone used for building
5. Silt deposits rich for farming