Beringia was a land bridge that connected Asia and North America during the last Ice Age, approximately 20,000 to 15,000 years ago. This region, now submerged under the Bering Strait, allowed humans and various animal species to migrate between the continents. It played a crucial role in the peopling of the Americas, as early humans crossed it in search of food and new habitats. Beringia's unique ecosystem also supported diverse flora and fauna adapted to the cold climate of the time.