the Cryogenian Period

The Cryogenian Period, occurring around 720 to 635 million years ago, was a time when Earth's climate drastically cooled, leading to widespread glaciation often called "Snowball Earth." During this time, ice sheets likely covered much of the planet, impacting oceans, life, and climate systems. These extreme cold periods are thought to have played a crucial role in shaping early life, setting the stage for the rise of more complex organisms. The Cryogenian is a key chapter in Earth's history, showcasing the planet's capacity for dramatic climate shifts and their influence on biological evolution.