Neogene

The Neogene

The Neogene was a special time in Earth's history. It lasted for about 20 million years, from 23 million years ago to 2.58 million years ago. This time is part of a bigger group called the Cenozoic.

During the Neogene, many animals and plants changed and looked more like they do today. The first early humans, called hominins, appeared in Africa near the end of this time.

The Neogene has two main parts. The first part is called the Miocene, and the second part is the Pliocene. During this time, the continents moved closer to where they are now. For example, a land bridge called the Isthmus of Panama formed, connecting North America and South America.

The world's weather also changed during the Neogene. It became cooler and drier, which helped ice form in places like the poles. Scientists first used the name "Neogene" in 1853.