The Little Ice Age was a period of time in which parts of Europe and North America were exposed to colder winters than previous and subsequent generations. This phase lasted a surprisingly long time, from about 1300 to about 1870. While not considered an actual ice age, it is said to have many effects on history, including important roles in shaping how we live today. Although the Little Ice Age lasted more than five hundred years, there is one part of it that seems to have the greatest impact on history. This occurred from the 1600s to the 1800s, when people of these times faced colder winters than they had ever experienced before. During this time period, European trade was expanding and maritime empires were colonizing. This was the result of new advances made in transportation powered by natural energy, such as fossil fuels, towards the end of this significant period. Through these new modes of transportation, it made specialization possible, which is when one group of people produces or grows a specific product while another group does the same for h...