Historical climate change refers to the long-term shifts in temperature and weather patterns on Earth, occurring over thousands to millions of years. These changes have been influenced by natural factors such as volcanic eruptions, variations in solar radiation, and shifts in Earth's orbit. For example, the Little Ice Age from the 14th to the 19th century saw cooler temperatures in parts of Europe and North America. In addition to natural causes, human activities have increasingly impacted the climate, especially since the Industrial Revolution. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial processes have led to higher levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Understanding historical climate change helps scientists predict future trends and assess the potential impacts on ecosystems and human societies.