The name of the world's longest river is the Nile River, which stretches approximately 6,650 kilometers (4,130 miles). Flowing through northeastern Africa, the Nile runs through several countries, including Uganda, Sudan, and Egypt, before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. Historically, the Nile has been vital for agriculture, trade, and transportation, making it a lifeline for ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians. The river has two major tributaries: the White Nile and the Blue Nile, both contributing to its length and flow. Recently, the Amazon River has been proposed as a challenger for the title, depending on measurement criteria.