Mesopotamia's soil was uniquely fertile, which gave humans reason to settle in the region and begin farming. As early as 5,800 B.C.E, people were living in the area known as the "Fertile Crescent" to take advantage of the rich soil. Mesopotamia's unique fertility allowed humans to settle in one place to farm.
The first civilizations appeared in locations where the geography was favorable to intensive agriculture. Governments and states emerged as rulers gained control over larger areas and more resources, often using writing and religion to maintain social hierarchies and consolidate power over larger areas and populations.
Trade Routes. Mesopotamia's rivers and location in central Asia supported extensive trade routes. ... This allowed Mesopotamia to access resources not native to its region, like timber and precious metals. In turn, Mesopotamia developed key aspects of civilization, like a token system to keep trading records
