1.What could Nile River bring to the land when it flooded its bank? ... and ...

2.When did some Native Amercian Indians begin their new year? When ... became ripe.

3.With what hope do people make noise at the New Year? To chase away ...

January 1st is the beginning of a new year. As far back in history as we can tell, people have celebrated the start of a new year. The people of ancient Egypt began their new year in summer. That is when the Nile River flooded its banks, bringing water and fertility to the land. And, some Native American Indians began their new year when the nuts of the oak tree became ripe. That was usually in late summer. Now, almost everyone celebrates New Year’s Day on January 1st. Today, as before, people celebrate the New Year’s holiday in many different ways. The idea of admitting wrongs and finishing the business of the old year is found in many societies at New Year’s Day. So is the idea of making resolutions. A resolution is a promise to change your ways, for example, to stop smoking or get more physical exercise. Noise-making is another ancient custom at the New Year. The noise is considered necessary to chase away evil spirits of the old year. People around the world do different things to make a lot of noise. Americans celebrate the New Year in many ways. Some visit family and friends, share a holiday meal, or watch New Year’s parades on television. For those who have been busy at work or school, New Year’s Day may be a day of rest. They spend the time thinking about, and preparing for the demands of the New Year.