Timeline graphic by Leigh Coriale Design and Illustration, adapted from The Book of Life, W.W. Norton, New York, New York.

A timeline of evolution demonstrates the tremendous expanse of geologic time compared to the period since humans evolved. Each higher scale details part of the scale beneath it. While the estimated times of various evolutionary events continue to change as new fossils are discovered and dating methods are refined, the overall sequence demonstrates both the scope and grandeur of evolutionary change.