The Last Days of the Dinosaurs: An Asteroid, Extinction and the Beginning of Our World

The asteroid impact 66 million years ago caused a mass extinction, but it also allowed for evolutionary opportunities that were closed for the previous 100 million years. In The Last Days of the Dinosaurs, Riley Black walks readers through what happened in the days, years, centuries, and million years after the impact.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 26 April 2022
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

Some 66 million years ago, an asteroid measuring seven miles in diameter crashed into Earth, leaving a geologic wound over 50 miles in diameter. The ensuing mass extinction claimed the lives of over half of all known species, seemingly overnight. However, this catastrophic event holds significance not only for the dinosaurs but also for humanity. It marked a pivotal moment in Earth's history, opening up evolutionary possibilities that had been closed off for the past 100 million years. In his book, The Last Days of the Dinosaurs, Riley Black takes readers on a journey through the days, years, centuries, and millions of years that followed the impact. The losses incurred were profound and devastating, but the resilience and determination of the surviving beings laid the foundation for the world we inhabit today.

The impact of the asteroid not only wiped out a vast array of species but also altered the Earth's landscape and atmosphere. The resulting debris field created a massive dust cloud that blocked out sunlight, leading to a global cooling period and widespread famine. However, this period of darkness and adversity also gave rise to new species and adaptations. Animals that were previously unable to compete for resources now had the opportunity to thrive, and the survivors of the extinction were forced to adapt and evolve in order to survive.

One of the most significant impacts of the asteroid was the reshuffling of the Earth's ecosystems. Many species that were previously dominant were wiped out, allowing for new species to emerge and dominate the landscape. This led to the emergence of mammals, birds, and reptiles, which eventually became the dominant life forms on Earth. The asteroid also had a profound effect on human evolution. The sudden extinction of many species forced humans to adapt and evolve in order to survive. This led to the development of new technologies, such as agriculture and tool-making, as well as the evolution of social structures and cultural practices.

The Last Days of the Dinosaurs is a captivating and informative book that provides a detailed account of the events leading up to and following the asteroid impact. Black takes readers on a journey through time, exploring the scientific evidence, historical accounts, and personal stories that shed light on the impact of this catastrophic event on the world we know today. The book is filled with fascinating anecdotes and insights, and it offers a valuable perspective on the resilience and adaptability of life on Earth.

In conclusion, the asteroid impact that occurred 66 million years ago was a defining moment in Earth's history. It led to the mass extinction of over half of all known species, but it also opened up new evolutionary possibilities and laid the foundation for the world as we know it today. Through the lens of The Last Days of the Dinosaurs, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the events that shaped our planet and the incredible resilience of life on Earth.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780750999526