Why are the world's major cities on the banks of rivers and water bodies?

Answer 1

The main reason may be the availability of fresh water.When mankind was first born, the immediate requirement must have been food and shelter.Food includes water and water was needed for cleaning purpose also(including his body).Then only he might have thought about dress and other things.
That is why most of the ancient civilizations flourished along the banks of important rivers.
Using the river for transportation must have been a late thought.Only after getting settled in life with the minimum requirments, he would have thought about trading. Then only he would have tried using the river for transportation as it would have been easier and cheaper.
Subsequently, the places on the river bank where they settled first, might have become towns and cities.River water is comparatively pure than the stagnant waters of ponds and lakes and they would have preferred river banks.

Answer 2

The cities used to be built on bodies of water because of trade mostly. Ships used to be the most viable way to transport large amounts of good, so any city that was a trade route would have it made. There are also other factors like health, food, and other things.

Answer 3

In the beginning of international commerce, waterways were the most economical means of transporting goods. So, the ports and inlets where these goods were imported and exported from was ... and still is, the best places to find jobs. More jobs... more people. Communities, grew into towns, then cities around where most trades were conducted.

Answer 4

Generally, in the old days it was easier to travel and move goods by water rather than over land. Thats why cities are generally build by waterways

Answer 5

because it is easier for trade and better life styles. Ships can get in and out of ports cheaper and water is easier to pump from those bodies instead of digging wells.