Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, the city ushered a new era as a central hub for culture, knowledge, and commerce due to its strategic location. Located at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and the Nile, it allowed seamless maritime and land trade, transforming it into a vibrant economic center.
The city’s prosperity arose from its bustling port, one of the best natural harbors in the Mediterranean region. It welcomed ships laden with goods from three continents: Europe, Asia, and Africa. Moreover, the nearby fertile Nile delta significantly contributed to its wealth, with its flood plains providing vast agricultural productivity.
The prosperity and strategic location of the city also fostered intellectual growth. The famous Library of Alexandria was the largest and most significant library of the ancient world, a symbol of knowledge and scholars’ hub.
However, Alexandria’s strategic location wasn’t solely beneficial. It also made it a target for foreign conquests, from the Persians to the Ottomans, shaping its multicultural and diverse identity along the centuries. Despite these hardships, Alexandria remained resilient, continually reinventing itself, proving its importance in the Mediterranean region’s history and economy.
#1. Who established the city of Alexandria?
B is the answer. The text states that Alexandria was “Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC.”
#2. What geographical features contributed to the prosperity of Alexandria?
C is the answer. The text mentions that Alexandria’s strategic location between the Mediterranean and the Nile contributed to its flourishing economy and cultural growth.
#3. Which facility in Alexandria symbolized knowledge and was a hub for scholars?
C is the answer. The text identifies “The famous Library of Alexandria” as being the most significant library of the ancient world and a hub for scholars.
#4. Which of the following continents had trade connections with Alexandria due to its bustling port?
C is the answer. The text states that through its bustling port, Alexandria welcomed ships laden with goods from Europe, Asia, and Africa.
#5. Despite being the target of foreign conquests, what characteristic of Alexandria is emphasized in the text?
B is the answer. The text highlights Alexandria’s resilience in the face of foreign conquests, stating “Despite these hardships, Alexandria remained resilient…”
#6. What predominantly contributed to Alexandria's wealth?
C is the answer. According to text, Alexandria’s wealth mainly came from its busy port, welcoming ships from three continents, and the nearby fertile Nile delta which provided vast agricultural productivity.