s or settlements. "To the north is a series of depressions; the Qattara Depression, covering about 7,000 sq. mi., is 43!
             Most of the farmland of Egypt is limited to the Nile Valley and Delta, where irrigation can make the rich alluvial soils productive. The vast majority of remaining land is too dry for farming and covered with infertile rocky or sandy soils. Egypt's desert climate restricts most vegetation to the Nile Valley and Delta and the oases. "The most widespread indigenous tree is the date palm; other trees include the carob, tamarisk, and sycamore. Rushes grow along streams." In the arid regions halfa grass and thorn trees are common. The lack of forest and grazing areas limits wild-animal life. The few species found include the fox, jackal, boar, and hyena. Crocodiles are found in the Upper Nile. Egypt has more than 300 species of birds and 100 species of fish.
             Egypt's climate is generally dry, with two seasons: a hot season from May to October and a cool season from November to April. During the summer, temperatures may reach 107 degrees F. Winters are generally warm, with average temperatures between 55 degrees and 70 degrees F. "Wide temperature variations occur in the deserts, ranging from a mean annual maximum of 114 degrees F during the day to a mean annual minimum of 42 degrees F after sunset." The Mediterranean coast receives the most rain in Egypt, about 8 inches. In drier areas of southern Egypt several years may elapse without any rain at all. "In April and May hot, dry winds and sandstorms called khamsin blow frequently, causing much damage to crops."
             One of the most fascinating women of all time was Cleopatra VII, queen of Egypt. She had great intelligence and beauty, and she used both to further Egypt's political aims. "Cleopatra was of Greek heritage and culture; one of the Ptolemy line set on the throne of Egypt after the conquest of Alexander th...