The older of the two epochs of the Quaternary Period, spanning about 1.8 million to 10,000 years ago. It represents the interval of geological time (and rocks accumulated during that time) extending from the end of the Pliocene Epoch (and the end of Tertiary Period) to the start of the Holocene Epoch. It is commonly characterized as an epoch when the earth entered its most recent phase of widespread glaciation. It marked the evolution of tool-making man. Also known as Ice Age; Oiluvium.
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