Title: Why did people settle in Mesopotamia? - eNotes.com
Headings: Why did people settle in Mesopotamia?
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Why did people settle in Mesopotamia?
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Included in area of The Fertile Crescent and named "The Cradle of Civilization," Mesopotamia was a desired designation for people to settle due to its fertile, rich soils and nearby water sources, as well as its advancements in society. Mesopotamia was positioned between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers in present-day Iraq, with the Mediterranean Sea and the Persian Gulf nearby. While the geographic features of the area also include vast dry, desert sections surrounded by mountain ranges, abundant oases exist in the area. Irrigation systems were easy to establish in Mesopotamia because of the rivers running through the region. With the establishment of irrigation systems, organized labor systems, and abundant farming, Mesopotamia attracted people to settle in its borders. It became known as the cradle of civilization due to its successful urban sectors. Mesopotamia claims the distinction of forming the concept of the first city (or urban center) of the world. The area hosted diverse people from many different cultures, allowing for cultural diffusion to occur. Mesopotamia also attracted many people due to its abundance of centers for learning.