Final answer:
Early agriculture in Egypt flourished mainly due to the Nile River, which provided water and fertile soil, sophisticated agricultural techniques, and a centralized government managing resources effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
Factors Behind the Success of Early Agriculture in Egypt
The success of early agriculture in Egypt can be attributed to several key factors. The most pivotal element was the Nile River, which provided a regular source of water in a region that was otherwise arid. This allowed for consistent irrigation and fertile soil ideal for crop cultivation. The Nile's annual flooding also deposited nutrient-rich silt onto the land, replenishing the soil and enabling Egyptians to grow crops such as wheat and barley.
Another significant factor was the development of sophisticated agricultural techniques and tools. Early Egyptians invented an array of farming implements, including the plough and the shaduf, an early irrigation tool. These innovations increased efficiency and crop yields, supporting a growing population.
A well-organized society with a centralized government also played a crucial role in the success of early Egyptian agriculture. The pharaonic state organized large-scale farming efforts, regulated the distribution of grain, and stored surplus for leaner times, helping to stabilize food supplies and support a distributed workforce beyond agriculture.