Final answer:
The Pleistocene began 2.6 million years ago with major glacial advances and lasted until around 10,000 years ago.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Pleistocene began with major glacial advances as early as 2.6 million years ago. During the Pleistocene epoch, the Earth experienced several periods of glaciation, known as ice ages, where large ice sheets covered significant parts of the planet. These glacial advances shaped the landscape and had a significant impact on the climate and ecosystems during that time. The Pleistocene epoch lasted until approximately 10,000 years ago, when the current Holocene epoch began.
Learn more about Pleistocene epoch