What did Earth look like in the Neogene? (23–2.6 Ma)

Key events of this period

• First Hominins

  6 Ma

  First hominins diverged from the common ancestor with chimpanzees. Began walking upright in Africa, starting the journey of human evolution.

• Panama Isthmus

  3 Ma

  The Panama Isthmus formed, connecting North and South America. Atlantic and Pacific currents separated, triggering the Great American Interchange of animals.