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Egypt And Mesopotamia Similarities

Decent Essays

Egypt and Mesopotamia, two of the earliest civilizations which were both developed around 3000 B.C.E., have numerous similarities and differences due to various reasons. The civilizations share many religious, economical, and geographical aspects of life, but there is still a multitude of differences between them.

First off, both civilizations were river valley civilizations; Mesopotamia was developed near the Tigris and Euphrates River, whereas Egypt was established near the Nile River. These rivers would have a significant role in both civilizations, since they flooded and left fertile soil used for agriculture. Due to the fact that they were built in river valleys, the civilizations were able to use the fertile soil to grow a surplus of …show more content…

For instance, the flooding of the Tigris and Euphrates River was unpredictable and thus, a complex irrigation system was required in Mesopotamia. These unforeseeable floodings caused the Sumerians to build independent cities, making Mesopotamia more urban. Although irrigation systems were still needed in Egypt, the flooding of the Nile River was predictable and was “life-enhancing, not life threatening.” (Duiker & Spielvogel 17) As a result, Egyptian civilization, unlike Mesopotamia, was more rural since it was safe to build along both sides of the Nile. Furthermore, Egypt had natural barriers, which consist of deserts, rapids, and the Mediterranean Sea. These barriers would provide Egypt with protection against invasions, while Mesopotamia was often invaded due its openness. Additionally, women were viewed differently between the two societies. Women in Mesopotamia had little privileges and rights in a married relationship. In Egypt, women were more respected and had the responsibility of running the household and educating the children. Next, the king of Mesopotamia and the pharaoh of Egypt were viewed differently in regards to their relationship with god. Although both derived their power from god, the kings were seen as agents of gods, while pharaohs were treated as god themselves. Undoubtedly, there are many distinctions that make the two civilizations

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