The first settlers in Nubia were farmers.

The first settlers in Nubia, an ancient region located in what is now southern Egypt and northern Sudan, were indeed primarily farmers. These early residents settled sometime before 3500 BC and took advantage of the fertile lands along the Nile River. There are several logical steps to consider when understanding why farming became the primary occupation of these settlers:

1. **Availability of Fertile Land**: Like in Egypt, Nubia was blessed with fertile land along the banks of the Nile River. The annual inundation deposited rich silt onto the land, creating an ideal environment for agriculture.

2. **Water Source**: The Nile River provided a constant source of water, which was essential for irrigation and for sustaining crops during dry periods.

3. **Sustainable Food Source**: By farming, settlers in Nubia could grow enough food to support their communities, which allowed for a stable food supply and the potential for surplus.

4. **Settlement Growth**: As agricultural techniques improved, populations grew, and communities could establish permanent settlements.

5. **Trade and Economy**: Surplus crops allowed Nubian communities to trade with neighboring regions, fostering a diverse and robust economy that could support artisans, leaders, and the growth of Nubian culture.

Extra: When talking about ancient settlements and farming, it is critical to understand that agriculture was a revolutionary development in human history. Before adopting farming, people were predominantly hunter-gatherers, which meant they lived a nomadic lifestyle, moving frequently in search of food. With the advent of agriculture, humans were able to settle in one place because they could cultivate the land and domesticate animals, leading to a more stable food supply.

In the case of ancient Nubia, farming culture evolved parallel to and was heavily influenced by ancient Egypt to the north. The fertile plains along the Nile were excellent for growing crops such as wheat and barley, which were staple foods. This agricultural foundation enabled the Nubians to establish a civilization that was rich in culture, trade, and power.

Nubia's history is marked by a series of powerful kingdoms, such as the Kingdom of Kush, which emerged around 2500 BC. The Kingdom of Kush became a major power in the region, especially during periods when Egypt's centralized authority was weak. Nubian pharaohs even ruled over Egypt for a time during the 25th Dynasty, exemplifying the extent of Nubian influence.

Understanding the importance of agriculture and the geographical advantages of regions like Nubia provides insight into how ancient civilizations developed and sustained themselves. It also helps explain the social, economic, and political structures that arose from these early farming societies.