Laurasia was a supercontinent that existed during the late Paleozoic and early Mesozoic eras, approximately 200 million years ago. It formed when the larger supercontinent Pangaea began to break apart. Laurasia primarily included what are now North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. As Laurasia split, it eventually separated into the continents we recognize today. This division played a significant role in shaping the Earth's geological and biological history, influencing the distribution of species and ecosystems. The breakup of Laurasia contributed to the formation of the modern continents and their unique characteristics.