The Foundation of Successful Civilizations: Trade, Religion, or Geography?

During the past two weeks, we've looked at the emergence of the major River-Valley Civilizations (Ch. 2) and the spread of certain religious groups and trading peoples (Ch. 3, especially). Based on what you have studied in others' presentations, what you have read yourself, and what I have shared and what we have discussed in class, make a strong case for which is more important to a successful civilization: trade, religion, or geography. Historians are often divided on these factors and make strong cases for each. Now we must also confront this debate. Please support your argument with with AT LEAST FIVE key details or examples from the text or presentations involving AT LEAST THREE civilizations. Please also make sure to write your argument substantively and thoughtfully in no fewer than 10 sentences.