If the entire course of evolution were compressed into a single year, the earliest bacteria would appear at the end of March, but we wouldn't see the first human ancestors until 6 a.m. on December 31st. The golden age of Greece, about 500 BC, would occur just thirty seconds before midnight.

Summary

This quote is expressing the vast timescale of evolution by comparing it to a calendar year. It suggests that the earliest forms of life, represented by bacteria, would only emerge at the end of March. It emphasizes the gradual progression and complexity of evolution by stating that humans, as the most advanced species, would only come into existence at the very end of the year, specifically at 6 a.m. on December 31st. Furthermore, it underscores the significance of historical events by mentioning that the golden age of Greece would happen shortly before midnight, symbolizing the fleeting nature of human achievements compared to the much longer timespan of evolution.

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