Final answer:
Ancient Greece and Rome were able to develop in major civilizations without being next to major rivers due to access to the sea, natural defenses, and fertile soil.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ancient Greece and Rome were able to develop into major civilizations without being next to major rivers due to several factors.
First, Greece and Rome had access to the sea, which allowed for trade and contact with other civilizations. This access to maritime trade routes helped them acquire resources and grow their economies.
Second, the geographical features of Greece and Rome, such as mountains and hills, provided natural defenses that protected them from invasion. This allowed them to develop their own political institutions and culture without being easily conquered by foreign powers.
Lastly, Greece and Rome had fertile soil and a favorable climate, which allowed for agriculture and sustainable food production. Although they didn't have major rivers like other civilizations, they were still able to support their populations through farming and trade.