Which country of the ancient world is famously described as the "Gift of the Nile"?

Introduction / Context:
This question is from ancient world geography and history. The phrase "Gift of the Nile" was used by historians to highlight how a particular civilisation depended heavily on the annual flooding of the Nile River for its agriculture, economy and overall survival.

Given Data / Assumptions:
• We are looking for a country whose civilisation developed along the Nile River. • The expression "Gift of the Nile" is a classic description from history books. • The focus is on the central river valley civilisation, not on all Nile-basin countries.

Concept / Approach:
The Greek historian Herodotus famously called Egypt the "Gift of the Nile" because the river's annual floods deposited fertile silt on its banks, making agriculture possible in an otherwise desert region. Without the Nile, Egypt would largely have been barren desert. Therefore, ancient Egyptian civilisation is seen as a direct gift of the river's life-giving waters.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall which ancient civilisation is most strongly associated with the Nile River. Step 2: Identify that the pyramids, pharaohs and temples are located in Egypt along the Nile valley. Step 3: Remember the famous quotation that "Egypt is the gift of the Nile". Step 4: Compare the options and choose the country that matches this description. Step 5: Select "Egypt" as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Standard history and geography textbooks across the world repeat Herodotus's statement describing Egypt as the "Gift of the Nile". Although the river also flows through Sudan and other modern states, the phrase in classical literature refers specifically to ancient Egypt. This confirms that Egypt is the correct answer for exams.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option China: Associated with rivers like the Huang He (Yellow River) and Yangtze, not the Nile. Option India: Its major rivers include the Ganga and Indus, not the Nile. Option Iraq: Linked with the Tigris and Euphrates rivers (Mesopotamia). Option Sudan: The Nile does flow through Sudan, but the traditional phrase "Gift of the Nile" is used for Egypt in historical writing.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners may think of other river civilisations like Mesopotamia or the Indus Valley when they see a phrase about a river. To avoid confusion, always connect the Nile with Egypt and remember Herodotus's famous line. This fixed association helps answer multiple questions related to the Nile and Egyptian civilisation.

Final Answer:
Therefore, the country famously described as the "Gift of the Nile" is Egypt.