What is the longest river in the world?

The Nile River is widely recognized as the longest river in the world, flowing approximately 4,135 miles (6,650 kilometers) from its sources in East Africa to its delta in Egypt, where it empties into the Mediterranean Sea. This river has been a crucial source of life, culture, and civilization for the peoples of northeastern Africa for thousands of years, notably in ancient Egypt.

While the Amazon River is often cited in discussions about river length, measurements can vary based on the criteria and methodology used. Some studies have suggested that the Amazon could be longer than the Nile when certain tributaries are considered, but traditionally, the Nile holds the title. The Yangtze River, while significant and the longest river in Asia, is shorter than both the Nile and the Amazon. The Mississippi River, while one of the longest rivers in North America, is considerably shorter than all of these rivers. Thus, the Nile is traditionally recognized as the longest river based on historical measurements.