These things have affected settlement, trade, and government due to the fact that land features determines the way colonies can be built. Water features determine were the colonies and government can be built so they can have water. Climate determines whether they can live there without worrying about the weather, and natural resources determines were colonies can be built so they can have food.
Camels were often used, due for being pack animals, not needing much water, and being built for the desert.
Because The Maurya Empire in India used a combination of political sabotage, religious conversion, and military conquest to expand its rule. The Romans, although a militaristic society, did not generally set out to conquer territory. But, they did get involved in many wars.
I hope that helps.
