Robinson says "History is Lamarckian"
He must have a giant database and coordinated spreadsheet to keep all the hundred-plus characters straight.
His ability to deal with centuries of detailed causal-linked events is really close to Asimov's.
I'm frankly stumped as to how he did it. The man has far more patience and organizational ability than I can possibly fathom. I stand in awe of his talent...
(I must have missed your post the first time around. Thanks for the ping.)