14. What divided the ancient Egyptian city-states into two regions?

The ancient Egyptian city-states were divided into two regions primarily by the Nile River, which served as a natural barrier and a crucial lifeline for the civilization. The regions were known as Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt.

- **Upper Egypt** is located to the south, extending from the Nile's first cataract (near modern Aswan) to the area just north of Cairo.
- **Lower Egypt** is the northern region, encompassing the Nile Delta where the river spreads out and drains into the Mediterranean Sea.

The distinction between Upper and Lower Egypt was also marked by cultural differences, with each region having its own customs, deities, and local governance. The unification of these two regions under a single ruler, traditionally attributed to Narmer (also known as Menes), marked the beginning of the Dynastic period in ancient Egypt.