What are some major events that happened during the neogene period?

During the Neogene period, which lasted from about 23 to 2.6 million years ago, significant events included the formation of the Isthmus of Panama, which altered ocean currents and contributed to climate changes. This period also saw the evolution and diversification of mammals and birds, including the rise of large herbivores like horses and the emergence of early hominins. Additionally, there were notable climatic shifts, leading to the cooling of global temperatures and the expansion of grasslands. The Neogene ultimately set the stage for the Pleistocene epoch and the development of modern ecosystems.