Theory Of Continental Drift
Alfred Wegner, A German Scientist, one day called his girlfriend and told her that the East edge of Africa looks like the Southwest/West edge of South America. He then let everyone know about his discovery, starting the Theory of Continental Drift.
Pangaea
Alfred Wegner was determined to prove to the world that the world was once a super continent called Pangea. He estimated that Pangaea existed around 245 million years ago around the Triassic Period. He believed that all continents fit together like puzzle pieces but eventually drifted apart creating today's continent formation.
Evidence Of Continental Drift
As the years went by, some scientists said that Pangaea could not have happened. The thought that every continent was at one time together is insane! Alfred knew he was right, he just had to prove it.
Plant And Animal Fossils
Plant fossils and animal fossils were a big part of Alfred's evidence. He found plant fossils that could only be found on land, in the middle of the ocean. He also discovered that there were the same animal fossils in North America and in Russia that could not swim, in both parts of the world.
Rock Formations
Alfred found that the rock in the Appalachian Mountains in North America is the same kind of rock found in a mountain range in Britain and Norway.