By 1500 B.C.E., which empire bridged Africa and Southwest Asia?

The Egyptian Empire is correct because it was the dominant civilization in northeastern Africa by 1500 B.C.E., encompassing much of the Nile River Valley. This empire served as a significant cultural and economic bridge between Africa and Southwest Asia, facilitating trade, cultural exchanges, and interaction with neighboring regions, including those in the Levant and into Mesopotamia.

During this period, Egypt was not only derived from a rich agricultural landscape but also engaged in extensive trade networks that connected it to various people and resources in Southwest Asia. The influence of Egyptian civilization reached beyond its borders, impacting areas through commerce, ideas, and technological advancements.

The other empires mentioned either emerged later or were not as influential in connecting these regions during that specific timeframe. The Assyrian and Akkadian Empires primarily located in Mesopotamia did not extend into Africa in the same way. The Persian Empire rose significantly later, establishing itself as a powerful state in the region long after 1500 B.C.E. Thus, the Egyptian Empire stands out as the bridge between Africa and Southwest Asia during that era.