Karl Schimper is credited as the first individual to use the term "ice age," highlighting a significant development in the study of Earth's climatic history. His work has had a lasting impact on how we understand periods of glaciation and their effects on the planet. This terminology has since become essential in the fields of geology and climate science, facilitating discussions about past climate changes and their implications on contemporary issues like global warming.

Bill Bryson's "A Short History of Nearly Everything" delves into various scientific concepts and milestones, including the contributions of figures like Schimper. By tracing these historical threads, Bryson provides readers with a clearer context of how scientific knowledge has evolved, particularly regarding our comprehension of Earth's icy past and the factors influencing climate patterns.