Environmental factors shape civilizations from "summary" of The Rise of the West by William H. McNeill
The physical environment exerts a powerful influence on the development of human societies. Climate, geography, and resources all play a role in shaping the way civilizations evolve. In some cases, environmental factors can act as a constraint, limiting the options available to a society. For example, the harsh conditions of the Arctic made it difficult for indigenous peoples to develop complex civilizations. On the other hand, a favorable environment can provide the conditions for rapid growth and advancement. The fertile soil of Mesopotamia allowed the Sumerians to develop agriculture and build the world's first cities. Similarly, the abundant natural resources of the Americas enabled th...
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