The river known for its historical significance to the ancient Egyptians is the Nile. Flowing through several countries in northeastern Africa, it is often regarded as the longest river in the world. The Nile was essential for the development of ancient Egyptian civilization, providing fertile soil through annual floods that allowed agriculture to flourish along its banks. It served as a vital transportation route and a source of sustenance. The river was also intricately linked to Egyptian mythology, often associated with the gods and seen as a life-giving force in the arid landscape.