Part 4/8:
The transient nature of human achievements raises doubts about what evidence from previous civilizations might have survived. Studies indicate that if human civilization ended today, within approximately 10,000 years, little to no trace would remain, aside from some stone constructions. After 100,000 years, artifacts would be virtually unrecognizable, limited to durable stone remnants.
Additionally, geological cataclysms—such as comet impacts or volcanic eruptions—have historically reshaped the planet, erasing any potential evidence of prior societies. Notable catastrophes, like the Toba supereruption, drastically reduced human populations, further complicating our understanding of how many civilizations may have risen and fallen throughout our extensive history.