10. (1.3, 1.4; DOK 2) Why did the Phoenicians turn to trade and the sea for their livelihood? because Phoenicians needed concrete for buildings because constant flooding made agriculture impossible because they needed a purple die used to color traditional garments

The correct answer is: because constant flooding made agriculture impossible The Phoenicians, who lived in the coastal regions of the Mediterranean, faced several challenges that led them to rely on trade and the sea for their livelihood. One of the primary reasons was the constant flooding in their region, which made agriculture nearly impossible. The fertile land was often submerged, and the waterlogging made it difficult to grow crops. Here's a more detailed explanation: 1. **Geographical Challenges**: The Phoenician homeland was characterized by a lack of natural resources and fertile land. The region was rocky and mountainous, with limited flat areas suitable for agriculture. The soil was often poor, and the climate was not conducive to large-scale farming. 2. **Flooding**: The Phoenicians lived in an area prone to flooding, particularly during the rainy season. The rivers in the region would overflow their banks, destroying crops and making it difficult to cultivate the land. 3. **Trade and Sea**: To overcome these challenges, the Phoenicians turned to trade and the sea. They were skilled navigators and built advanced ships that allowed them to explore and trade with other regions. This trade network brought them wealth and resources that they couldn't obtain locally. 4. **Sustainable Livelihood**: By focusing on trade and the sea, the Phoenicians were able to create a sustainable livelihood. They traded goods such as textiles, glass, and purple dye, which was highly valued in the ancient world. Their seafaring skills also allowed them to establish colonies and expand their influence. In conclusion, the Phoenicians turned to trade and the sea for their livelihood primarily because the constant flooding made agriculture impossible in their region. This led them to develop a thriving maritime trade network that allowed them to overcome their geographical challenges and thrive as a civilization.