Several geographic and environmental factors play significant roles in shaping trade and commerce. A nations’ development relies on these factors to ensure sustainability and in most cases these environmental factors affect human migration and settlement. Migration patterns and networks allow societies of different backgrounds to interact and create new communities amongst themselves. Ancient civilizations such Mesopotamia and Egypt experienced similar developments based on the environment. The United States too could attribute its development in trade and commerce due to geographical factors such as location and climate. This research evaluates the impact of these two environmental factors on the development of the United States vis-à-vis impacts of the same the development of Egypt.
Climate
Climate is one of the most significant environmental factors for the development of any nation . Good climate with frequent rains and enough sunlight is very important for agriculture. Agriculture is the source of food and thus for food security, a country must invests in agriculture and this is best assured if the country enjoys good climate. The United States has good climate for agriculture of food crops such as corn and wheat. States such as Arizona and Colorado have huge lands for planting wheat and corn under natural climatic conditions without the need for irrigation .
Geographical Location
Great civilizations and nations have grown in trade and commerce particularly due to the geographical location. The location plays a significant task in access to markets. Trade routes, both inland and maritime have seen great nations arise from trade due to their location advantage. The United States is located at important trade routes between Europe and South America. The country borders two oceans that is, eastern ports at Atlantic Ocean and the western at the Pacific Ocean. Due to this marine access maritime trade from Europe and Asia is advanced. Ports on both sides of the country are handling an increasing number of cargo.
Egypt’s location
Egypt is one of the nations that enjoy a greatly important location. It is one of the nations with the busiest trade route in the world. The country is the meeting point of Mediterranean Sea, Aegean Sea, and the Red Sea . Additionally, it borders Asia to the East and it the gateway to the greater African continent.
In ancient time, Egypt was already involved in trade in fourth century BC. Merchants from all corners of the Middle East met in Egypt to trade. Egypt’s ancient kingdoms were very successful due to taxes levied on businesses in markets. Alexandria, Egypt’s second largest city grew out of ancient trade . The British Government of 1920s realized the importance of the country’s location and built the Suez Canal to allow big ships to pass through the canal. Today Suez Canal has been expanded and about one half of the world’s marine transport passes through the Suez Canal.
Cultural Diffusions
The United States has one of the most culturally diverse communities in the world. Due to trade and commerce, the country has experienced massive migration of people from all corners of the world. All these cultures have intertwined into what is referred to as the American culture. This fusion of cultures creates a coherent society that improves its social development.
Conclusion
Numerous environmental factors affect the development of nations and civilizations. Geographical location provides a country with an advantage that fosters business and commerce. Good climate provides good condition for food crops and hence food for the population. These factors are important for fostering a nation growth.
Resources
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National Council for Geographic Education. (2008). The Journal of geography, Volume 21. Washington: National Council for Geographic Education.
