Hindu Kush Mountains
The Hindu Kush was a geographical form of protection for the Indian civilization, with the exception of the Khyber Pass. The Khyber Pass allowed the Aryans to invade the land held by the Indus River Valley civilization.
Himalayas
- Provided protection for the Indian civilization from the East
- Separates India from China
The Alps
Provided protection for the Italian peninsula, including the Etruscans and Romans who lived there.
The Pyrénées
The Pyrénées mountain range separates the Iberian Peninsula, which includes Spain, from the rest of Europe.
Burkhan Khaldun
The mountain Burkhan Khaldun was sacred to Genghis Khan. It is believed to be his birthplace, and was later a refuge for him toward the beginning of his conquest.
Sahara Desert
The Sahara Desert along northern Africa featured a natural protection for Ghana, Mali, and Songhai. Trade routes rose up across the Sahara Desert that featured the transportation and sale of salt and gold.
Arabian Desert
Despite the large size and hot temperature of the Arabian Desert, the religion of Islam and its associated empires arose out of the cities of Mecca and Medina
Gobi Desert
As part of both China and Mongolia, the Gobi Desert has held a role in the development of both civilizations. It also featured several sites along the Silk Road.