Question

“not without reason did gods and men choose this spot for the site of our city—the hills, the river to bring us produce from the inland regions and seaborne commerce from abroad, the sea itself, near enough for convenience yet not so near as to bring danger from foreign fleets, our situation in the very heart of italy—all these advantages make it of all places in the world the best for a city destined to grow great.” - excerpt from livy’s history of rome document - based questions: please answer each question using complete sentences, based on the reading selection and your knowledge of social studies. 1. what did livy mean when he wrote that rome’s location was chosen by “gods and men”? 2. why did livy believe that the tiber river and mediterranean sea were beneficial to rome? 3. name three major modern cities that are located at the mouths of rivers.

Explanation:

1. In ancient - Roman culture, people believed in divine influence, and the practical advantages of Rome's location, like hills for defense, a river for trade, and a strategic sea - proximity, were seen as both a divine blessing and a result of human choice.
2. The Tiber River brought produce from inland and facilitated seaborne commerce with the Mediterranean Sea. It was a trade - enabling waterway, and the sea's proximity allowed for trade but was far enough to avoid easy foreign naval attacks.
3. Examples of major modern cities at river mouths include Shanghai (Yangtze River), New Orleans (Mississippi River), and Buenos Aires (Río de la Plata).

Answer:

1. Livy meant that Rome's location had both divine approval and was a result of human - made decisions, considering its advantageous geographical features for defense, trade, and growth.
2. Livy believed the Tiber River and Mediterranean Sea were beneficial as the river brought inland produce and enabled seaborne trade, and the sea's proximity was convenient for trade while being far enough to offer protection from foreign fleets.
3. Shanghai, New Orleans, Buenos Aires.