Final answer:
The traditional urban settlements from North Africa to the Middle East were characterized by centralized government, dense population, agricultural focus, and well-defined social classes. These civilizations benefited from proximity to waterways and the development of agriculture, leading to advancements such as trade networks and planned cities.
Step-by-step explanation:
The essential features of an urban area in traditional settlements located from North Africa to the Middle East included a centralized government, a dense population, an agricultural focus, and well-defined social classes.
These early civilizations emerged along large rivers, where intensive agriculture supported a sedentary and growing population. The resulting stability allowed for a distinct culture to develop, including advancements such as craft specialization, regional trade networks, monumental architecture, and the centralization of power.
In places like ancient Rome, urban centers with forums, temples, baths, and other cultural establishments thrived, supported by sophisticated infrastructure such as aqueducts and planned road systems. Ancient cities like Uruk, Abydos, Harappa, and Anyang were strategically located near waterways, which contributed to their growth and development.