The river known for its historic trade routes in ancient Africa is the Nile River. Spanning over 6,600 kilometers, the Nile was crucial to the development of ancient Egyptian civilization, providing fertile land for agriculture and serving as a vital transportation route. The river's annual flooding deposited nutrient-rich silt on its banks, making it possible to sustain large populations and trade networks. The Nile remains a significant cultural symbol and continues to be essential for the livelihoods of millions today.