how did geography influence the city-states of Sumer?

http://www.scribd.com/doc/6009206/CityStates-of-Ancient-Sumer

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Geography played a significant role in shaping the city-states of Sumer, which were located in what is present-day southern Iraq. Here's an explanation of how geography influenced the development of Sumerian city-states:

1. Fertile Crescent: Sumer was situated in the southern part of the Fertile Crescent, a region characterized by its fertile soil due to the presence of two major rivers, the Tigris and Euphrates. The annual flooding of these rivers deposited nutrient-rich silt, enabling the growth of abundant crops. This geographical advantage allowed the Sumerians to practice agriculture on an extensive scale and support a large population.

2. Irrigation: In order to utilize the river water effectively, the Sumerians developed an intricate system of irrigation canals to control the flow of water to their fields. By diverting the water to their crops, they were able to facilitate agricultural production even in areas with less favorable natural water sources. The development of irrigation allowed for surplus food production, leading to population growth and the rise of urban centers.

3. Trade and Transport: Sumer's location at the crossroads of waterways and between Mesopotamia, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Mediterranean Sea made it a hub for trade. The rivers served as major transportation routes, enabling the city-states to engage in long-distance trade with neighboring regions. This led to the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural influences, further enriching Sumerian society.

4. Defense and Protection: The geography of Sumer was marked by natural barriers such as marshes and deserts, which acted as significant defenses against potential invaders. Additionally, the city-states were surrounded by vast expanses of open plains, making it difficult for enemies to approach undetected. These geographical features provided a level of protection to Sumerian city-states, allowing them to develop and flourish without constant threats of invasion.

Overall, the geography of Sumer, with its fertile land, access to water, trade routes, and defensive features, directly influenced the development of the Sumerian city-states, driving agricultural advancements, urbanization, trade, and security.