What was a key feature of the settlements established by early civilizations, like the ones discussed?

The key feature of the settlements established by early civilizations was that they were founded where water was easily available. Access to water sources, such as rivers, lakes, and aquifers, was crucial for agriculture, drinking, sanitation, and transportation. Early civilizations, including those in Mesopotamia along the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, the Nile Valley in Egypt, and Indus Valley, developed in areas with abundant water resources, which allowed them to sustain larger populations and develop complex societies.

Additionally, the availability of water facilitated irrigation, which increased agricultural productivity and enabled these societies to produce surplus food, a critical factor in the growth of urban centers and specialized labor. These settlements often thrived because they could reliably access water, making it a foundational element of their development. In contrast, locations where water was scarce or where nomadic lifestyles prevailed would not support the establishment of permanent settlements or the societal complexity witnessed in early civilizations.