A term used by some experts to describe our current era, where human activity has become the most powerful influence on the planet’s climate and environment.

The process of people building permanent homes in a specific area. Historically, this was heavily dependent on natural features like access to rivers for water and trade.

Materials provided by nature (like coal and oil) that have a limited supply and cannot be replaced once they are all used up.

A group of countries or colonies controlled by one single powerful nation. Exploration for resources like spices and land often led to the growth of empires.

The natural world sets the "limits" or rules for historical events, meaning the environment is a crucial cause in how history turns out.