The Little Ice Age was a period during which parts of Europe and North America were exposed to colder winters than previous generations and following. This phase lasted a surprisingly long time, from around the 1300s to 1870. Although not considered a complete "ice age", it is said to have had many effects on history, including an important role in defining the way we live today. Although the Little Ice Age lasted over five hundred years, it was one part of it that seemed to have the most impact on history. This was between the 1600s and 1800s, when people of that era faced colder winters than ever before. During this period, European trade was growing and maritime empires were colonizing. This is the result of new advances in naturally powered transportation, such as fossil fuels, towards the end of this important period. Thanks to these new modes of transportation, this has made specialization possible, which is when one group of people makes or grows a specific product while another group does the same to develop it....