Read the passage and answer the question. The Rhine has served as a link between southern and northern Europe since prehistoric times, enabling trade and cultural exchange, which in turn led to the establishment of settlements within a small geographical area. Which statement best analyzes the effects of conditions described in this passage? a b The cultures of these areas developed independently Early settlements combined to form a chain of villages and small towns This encouraged agricultural development among early settlers Close communities caused groups to go to war with one another for resources d​