World's oldest civilizations

This map highlights the locations of some of the world's oldest civilizations, which emerged in river valleys and laid the foundation for human societies. These ancient civilizations flourished due to the availability of fertile land and water sources, enabling agriculture, trade, and early urban settlements.

1. Egypt (Nile Valley) – The Egyptian civilization, one of the oldest and most enduring, developed along the Nile River. Known for its pyramids, hieroglyphic writing, and advanced administrative systems, it thrived for millennia.

2. Mesopotamia (Tigris-Euphrates Valley) – Often referred to as the "Cradle of Civilization," Mesopotamia saw the rise of the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians. It was the birthplace of writing (cuneiform), early laws (Hammurabi’s Code), and major advancements in science and governance.

3. Harappan Civilization (Indus-Saraswati Valley) – Also known as the Indus Valley Civilization, it was characterized by advanced urban planning, drainage systems, and trade networks. Major cities like Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro showcase their sophisticated infrastructure.

4. China (Huang Ho Valley) – The early Chinese civilization emerged along the Yellow River (Huang He). It saw the development of early dynastic rule, silk production, and early writing systems, forming the basis for one of the longest continuous cultures in history.

These civilizations played a crucial role in shaping modern cultures, governance, and technological advancements.