Question 5 5. (1.2; DOK 2) Why did ancient civilizations wage war in order to gain control of rich land or natural resources. Oin order to spread their ideas, beliefs, customs, and technology. in order to protect the herds of pastoralists, On order to impose their religion on other cultures.

Ancient civilizations often waged war to gain control of fertile land and natural resources, which were crucial for agriculture, trade, and sustaining their populations. For instance, the Mesopotamians fought over the resource-rich regions between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, while the Egyptians sought control of the Nile Delta to ensure their agricultural prosperity. Wealth in land could translate to power and stability, giving them an edge over rival states. Additionally, warfare served as a means for civilizations to spread their cultural influence further afield. As tribes and nations clashed, they didn't just claim territory; they also disseminated their customs, technologies, and beliefs. The Romans, for example, expanded their empire across Europe not only for land but to extend Roman law, engineering, and cultural practices—unifying their vast territories and ensuring a lasting legacy that shaped future civilizations.