Final answer:
Deserts and rivers in the Middle East impact trade and the location of human settlements through irrigation systems, oases, and suitable agricultural conditions. Rivers in Mesopotamia supported urban centers, oases facilitated trade in the Sahara Desert, and the Maghreb region's geography allows for agricultural production.
Step-by-step explanation:
Deserts and rivers in the Middle East have a significant impact on trade and the location of human settlements. The rivers in Mesopotamia, such as the Tigris and Euphrates, provided water for irrigation systems that supported early urban centers. These rivers allowed for the growth of agriculture and the development of trade routes through water transportation.
In the Sahara Desert, oases played a crucial role in connecting trade routes across the desert. Medieval kingdoms in West Africa competed for control over these oases, which served as important hubs for trade. These oases provided access to water and resources, making it possible for people to live in these desert regions.
In the Maghreb region, the Atlas Mountains and a moderate climate create suitable conditions for agricultural production. The coastal regions and mountain valleys are centers for growing crops such as grapes, dates, oranges, olives, and other food products. Geography affects population distribution, and most human groups gravitate toward regions with a moderate climate and access to water and food.