Natural resources, such as fertile soil, minerals, and timber, played an absolutely vital role in the success of the Ancient Egyptian civilization. The environment of ancient Egypt was extremely harsh, with very little resources, yet the Egyptians utilized these and developed a sophisticated subsistence economy which formed the basis for the country’s prosperity throughout its history. Through a combination of skilled labor, innovative technologies, and strong geographic advantages, the Nile River made the Egyptians some of the world’s most successful farmers and enabled them to build a prosperous and ambitious society.
The Nile Valley was the birthplace of Ancient Egyptian civilization, it provided an area of abundant resources where many crops flourished due to the extremely fertile alluvial mud. The main staple food crops of Ancient Egyptians were wheat and barley, which allowed the ancient Egyptians to build an abundant and consistent food supply, and therefore an advanced culture. The river’s annual cycle of flooding each year renewed the farmland and provided an additional source of resources for the Egyptians.
The hot and dry climate of Egypt enabled countless valuable minerals and metals to be found. Ancient Egyptians were able to obtain gold, copper, and iron from the desert, as well as a variety of other materials like limestone and diorite, which were used for various purposes. The availability of these materials allowed the Egyptians to build vast complexes, like the Pyramids of Giza, and to perfect advanced technologies such as pottery and metallurgy.
The vast forest and timber regions of Ancient Egypt provided essential resources for building homes and a variety of materials for tools. Animals, such as hippos and crocodiles, were also hunted for food, their tusks and skins used to craft furniture and shields. Livestock such as cows, sheep, and goats were also important resources, used for both food and for their wool and hides.
Trade
One of the most important ways Ancient Egyptians took advantage of their natural resources was through trade. In addition to goods from around their own country, the Egyptians traded with other civilizations, like the Minoans of Crete, for materials which weren’t available in Egypt. This allowed them to expand their influence and resources. The Egyptians also used their trading abilities to create diplomatic relationships which would later be vital in protecting their country from invading forces.
Military
The Ancient Egyptians were also able to use natural resources to its advantage in the military sphere. The rugged land between Egypt and the Sinai Peninsula acted as a natural boundary, and prevented invaders from easily gaining access to Egypt. Additionally, flax was used to create rope and sails for ships, which allowed the Egyptians to control the Mediterranean sea lanes and protect their ports from enemy ships.
Organization
Another key factor in Ancient Egypt which allowed it to succeed and prosper was that the Egyptians had a highly organized bureaucratic system. This allowed them to exploit their natural resources efficiently and equitably, whilst maintaining administrative control over the land. Land was divided into districts, or nomes, each administered by a local governor. This enabled the Egyptians to create a structure which allowed them to effectively utilize and account for the resources available.
Religion
Religion played an incredible role in Ancient Egyptian life. Religion was tied inextricably to the natural cycles of the land. Several gods, such as the sun god Ra, Nut – the goddess of sky, and Osiris – the god of grain and fertility, were associated with natural phenomena and helped to give the people greater appreciation and understanding of their environment. This enabled them to more effectively utilize their resources and create an even more successful society.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ancient Egypt was able to develop and thrive due to its abundance of natural resources, resources which it exploited through agriculture, trade, religion, and organization. The Nile River made it possible for Ancient Egyptians to farm an abundance of food, as well as provided the minerals and metals they used to craft their famous monuments. The nearby desert also offered various materials which could be used for further development, while the forests and wildlife of the country provided the resources to make houses, furniture, and supplies for their military endeavors. Lastly, Ancient Egyptians had a highly organized government which enabled them to efficiently utilize and manage their resources. It is through these resources that Ancient Egypt built its wealth, power, and lasting legacy.
