The Geography
Mesopotamia is considered to be one of the original civilizations on earth. It had no example civilization to look to, nor did it have many empires nearby to get help from. Its people thrived on the lush lands and the constant water supply from its two main rivers. Mesopotamia is located between the Tigris and Euphrates River, helping to explain why the name is actually Greek for "Land between two rivers". The arc of land from the Mediterranean Sea to the Persian Gulf was referred to as the Fertile Crescent. It had abundant seasonal rains and rivers that made the soil suitable for farming and settlement. Mesopotamia is divided into two geographic regions, each with its own unique climate and geography.
Northern Mesopotamia
Mostly hills and plains, northern Mesopotamia is extremely fertile. The abundant rains met with the Tigris and Euphrates on both sides cause the soil to be favorable for settlers. The Zagros mountains to the northwest provide timber and metals which the people of Mesopotamia have learned to master.
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Southern Mesopotamia
With a geography completely contrasting to its northern counterpart, Southern Mesopotamia has barren plains and marshy lands. People in this region created cities in close proximity to the rivers to make use of the more suitable land there. Due to the fact that this area had no natural resources, besides the soil for farming, keeping relationships with other kingdoms was important.
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