This picture shows an ancient Roman aqueduct. Aqueducts brought water from the mountains to lower elevations.

Question

How did the use of aqueducts affect settlement in early Roman civilizations?

a. People who lived in dry areas had access to fresh water.
b. Every family was able to have a private bath in its home
c. Fresh water attracted settlers from other civilizations
d. Farmers were able to keep their crops watered

Answer 1

The use of aqueducts in early Roman civilizations had several significant effects on settlement patterns. Of the options provided, the most directly related to the impact of aqueducts on settlement is:

c. Fresh water attracted settlers from other civilizations.

Aqueducts allowed for the transportation of fresh water over long distances, making previously unsuitable areas for settlement more viable. This accessibility to water naturally attracted people, including those from other regions or civilizations, contributing to urban development and population growth in those areas. While options a, b, and d are also relevant outcomes of having access to fresh water, option c best captures the overall impact on settlement by highlighting the attraction of fresh water as a driving force for population movement.