How did the geography of Mesopotamia influence its civilization?

The geography of Mesopotamia played a crucial role in shaping its civilization, particularly through the support of extensive agriculture and the emergence of city-states. Mesopotamia, situated between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, benefited from the fertile land created by the annual flooding of these rivers. This natural irrigation allowed for the cultivation of surplus crops, which in turn supported a growing population.

The abundance of agricultural resources enabled the development of complex societies and the establishment of city-states, where political, religious, and economic activities flourished. The ability to produce food more efficiently allowed populations to specialize in various trades and crafts, leading to advancements in technology, writing, and governance.

While certain factors mentioned in the other options may be part of the broader context of Mesopotamia's geography, they do not capture the overarching influence of agriculture and urbanization that were fundamental to the civilization's growth and development. Instead, the fertile land and rivers were pivotal in providing the necessary resources that contributed to the societal advancements characteristic of Mesopotamian civilization.