Europeans cleared vast forests for agriculture, timber, and fuel, causing erosion, habitat loss, and climate shifts.
Introduction of cotton and tobacco expanded farming, converting wetlands and clearing more forests.
Gold and mineral mining left toxic chemicals and heavy metals contaminating soil and water.
City growth increased air/water pollution and traffic congestion.
Rising temperatures fuel more extreme weather—hurricanes, floods—causing widespread damage.
Understanding these changes is crucial for future environmental protection and management.