The Nile was flooded for a few months of the year and when the waters went back to normal the soil left behind was very fertile. Egypt was also very dry, so living near water was very useful. They didn't have to wander around looking for water anymore. They were able to build canals off the river to bring water throughout their civilization.
People settled along the river for access to water
Fertile soil was deposited and made the area unnaturally fertile compared to other areas
One answer that could possibly be included is: Flooding delayed development until dams made it safe for people to live along the river
^^^Let me check on that and I'll let you know (I don't remember if this is true or not)
Hope this helped!
