Environmental Factors and Early Human Settlement

Front

What were the three important environmental factors that influenced early human settlement?

Back

Water, topography, and vegetation

Front

Why was water the most important environmental factor in early human settlement?

Back

It was necessary for survival

Front

How did farmers benefit from settling near rivers?

Back

They could use river water to irrigate their crops.

Front

Why did farmers prefer to settle in flat, open areas?

Back

The soil in these areas was ideal for growing crops

Front

Why were mountains less friendly to human settlement?

Back

They had steep slopes that were difficult to cross.

Front

Why did deserts discourage settlement?

Back

They had a lack of water for farming.

Front

What is vegetation?

Back

The plant life in an area

Front

How did vegetation influence early human settlement?

Back

Plants provided a source of food, provided shade from the hot sun, and were used to make useful products.

Front

What role did topography play in early human settlement?

Back

It influenced the availability of resources.

Front

Why were coastal areas attractive for early human settlements?

Back

They provided access to marine resources