Why were rivers important to the devlopment of such ancient civilizations?

Like the people above me said, water for irrigation. Also, soil near the rivers tend to get replenished every year by the river flooding (like the Nile floods), so there is usually good farm soil near rivers. And rivers were the first roads. Boats can transport goods up and down the river easier than dragging stuff across land.

River water from upstream used for drinking, downstream for washing and effluent. Irrigation in hot countries and also river valleys can be very fertile. Very important for the defence of the city also. Rivers were also used for trade and transport.

Transportation, food, water, you name it rivers provide it.

Transportation, Commerce, cleaning the city.

Trade and agriculture. As has been previously stated rivers provided fresh water for drinking, and farming as well as provided transportation for trade goods. It is why Nordic Civilization developed along the coast. It may take several wagons and oxen and men and thus a lot of water to move trade goods by land but that same amount of goods can be moved by water in a small boat rowed by a handful of men.

Mostly ancient civilizations settled their camps near rivers because its easier to build farms and gather more product from them when they are near water,and also in the production of pottery which was made from argile thats a form of mud found especially in humid terrain near rivers or lakes.Their houses also were made from argile .

Without water, there is no life. Water is necessary for the irrigation of crops. It provided a means of importing and exporting goods, thus stimulating the economy and travel. Also, in times of war, it provided the means of an expanded army. Rivers will always be important.

crops, drinking water, transportation.

As a water source, trade, transportation, agriculture, food source.