The geographic features of ancient Egypt and Nubia had significant effects on the culture, economic activities, and building materials. The dry heat allowed for mummification of the dead. The Nile river provided water for crops, a means of travel, and irrigation for farming while also facilitating trade. Deserts made farming difficult and crossing dangerous, but the heat required stone structures and mud from the Nile was used for bricks.

1. Geographic
Features of
Ancient Egypt
and Nubia
Effect on Culture
and Everyday Life
Effect on
Economic
Activities and
Trade
Effect on Building
Materials
Climate
Dryness and heat
allowed
mummification of
the dead
Trade routes
would be
dependent on
sources of water
Buildings were
made of stone or
sun-baked brick
Waterways
The Nile provided
a means of travel
as well as water
for crops
Provided ways for
trade goods to get
to markets;
provided water for
irrigation
Nile mud provided
raw material for
bricks
The dead were
buried in the
desert; bodies
were preserved by
mummification
Could make
farming difficult;
dangerous to
cross, making
trade difficult
Only stone
structures could
last in the extreme
heat
Desert