Why did the Greek historian Herodotus call Egypt "the gift of the Nile"?

Question

Select all correct answers.

Responses

The Nile was an abundant source of precious stones.

The Nile was an abundant source of precious stones.

The Nile gave the Egyptians more access to trade.

The Nile gave the Egyptians more access to trade.

The Nile provided water.

The Nile provided water.

The Nile deposited fertile soil.

Answer 1

Herodotus called Egypt "the gift of the Nile" primarily because:

• The Nile provided water.
• The Nile deposited fertile soil.

These two aspects were crucial for agriculture and sustaining life in ancient Egypt, making the Nile essential for the civilization's development and prosperity. The other options regarding precious stones and access to trade are not correct in the context of this phrase.