Which of the following is not a result of the geographic proximity of two or more groups of people?

Geographic proximity can bring groups into contact, leading to trade, cultural exchange, conquest, or the spread of religions. These effects help explain Europe’s strong trade and cultural relationships, the conquest of the Indian subcontinent, and the spread of Islam across southern Europe and the Middle East. Japan’s long life expectancy is not a direct result of nearby groups; it is more closely related to factors such as diet and healthcare.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.