This chapter explores the critical nexus between the historical context of climate change in Arctic waters and contemporary trends. It scrutinizes the multifaceted impacts of rising temperatures on Arctic marine ecosystems, concluding with an in-depth examination of the consequences of melting sea ice and glacier retreat. The historical context of climate change in the Arctic is essential for comprehending the profound transformations currently observed. Paleoclimatic data, derived from ice cores, marine sediments, and dendrochronology, reveal that the Arctic has undergone significant climatic fluctuations over geological timescales. The Holocene epoch, in particular, witnessed substantial variations in temperature and ice cover, shaping the evolution and distribution of Arctic marine ecosystems. During the late Holocene, a period of relative climatic stability allowed for the establishment of complex marine food webs. However, the onset of the Industrial Revolution marked the beginning of an unprecedented anthropogenic impact on the global climate system. The rapid increase in greenhouse gas emissions has accelerated warming trends, with the Arctic experiencing the most pronounced temperature increases—a phenomenon known as Arctic amplification. Recent trends indicate a continued and accelerated warming of Arctic waters, driven primarily by increased atmospheric CO2 levels. Satellite observations and in situ measurements document a consistent rise in sea surface temperatures, particularly over the past few decades. This warming trend is coupled with a decline in sea ice extent, reduced snow cover, and alterations in the timing and intensity of seasonal cycles. The retreat of sea ice and glaciers has exposed large areas of the Arctic Ocean to direct solar radiation, further exacerbating warming through positive feedback mechanisms. Additionally, the influx of freshwater from melting ice contributes to changes in ocean salinity and stratification, which in turn affect oceanic circulation patterns and nutrient distribution. The impacts of rising temperatures on Arctic marine ecosystems are profound and multifaceted. Increased thermal stress affects the physiology and distribution of marine species, altering community structure and ecosystem dynamics. For instance, the phenology of primary producers, such as phytoplankton, is shifting, leading to changes in the timing and magnitude of primary production. This has cascading effects on higher trophic levels, including zooplankton, fish, seabirds, and marine mammals. Species that are adapted to cold, ice-covered environments face heightened risks, as their habitats diminish and competition with temperate species increases. The northward migration of sub-Arctic species into Arctic waters introduces new ecological interactions and potential displacement of native species. Moreover, the loss of sea ice habitat has dire consequences for ice-dependent species, such as polar bears and seals, which rely on ice for hunting, breeding, and resting. This chapter concludes with a focused examination of the consequences of melting sea ice and glacier retreat. The reduction in sea ice cover, both in extent and thickness, is one of the most visible indicators of climate change in the Arctic. The loss of multiyear ice, which is more resilient to melting, underscores the severity of the current warming trend. Glacier retreat contributes significantly to global sea level rise and alters freshwater inputs into the Arctic Ocean. The resulting changes in freshwater fluxes impact oceanic circulation and stratification, influencing the distribution and availability of nutrients critical for marine productivity. The loss of sea ice and glaciers also has socioeconomic implications, particularly for Indigenous communities that rely on the stability of ice-covered waters for traditional subsistence activities. Additionally, the opening of previously inaccessible Arctic waters has geopolitical and economic ramifications, as new shipping routes and resource exploitation opportunities emerge. This chapter elucidates the vital link between the historical context of Arctic climate change and recent trends, highlighting the profound impacts of rising temperatures on marine ecosystems. The melting of sea ice and glacier retreat emerge as pivotal factors driving ecological, socioeconomic, and geopolitical changes in the Arctic region. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing adaptive strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and safeguard the ecological integrity and cultural heritage of the Arctic.