Final answer:
Egypt was protected from invaders by its natural borders, which included harsh desert conditions and the Nile Delta's waterways. The first cataract of the Nile also served as a southern boundary, while the regular Nile flooding contributed to stability and social cohesion.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Egypt's Natural Borders Protected the Country
Egypt's natural borders played a crucial role in its protection from invaders. The vast and rugged deserts surrounding Egypt acted as a formidable natural barrier, making it difficult for invaders to cross. The harsh desert conditions, coupled with the absence of reliable water sources and the extreme climate, presented significant challenges to any invading army, deterring potential conquests.
The Nile Delta, with its complex network of waterways and marshes, also served as a natural defense against invasions from the coast. This geographic feature made it challenging for would-be conquerors to mount an effective coastal attack.
To the south, Egypt was protected by the presence of the first cataract of the Nile, which served as a natural boundary due to the impassable rapids that made navigation difficult for any would-be invaders approaching from that direction.
In addition, the predictable flooding of the Nile brought about not only fertility to the land but also a degree of predictability and stability to the civilization, which contrasted with the more unpredictable nature of flooding in regions like Mesopotamia. This predictability nurtured a sense of order and harmony in Egyptian society, further contributing to the country's overall defense strategy by reinforcing social cohesion and the ability to plan for the future.