Notes

You just said it yourself: "from the beginning of humanity." Hmm, I wonder why women had to rely on older males when they could not get an education, own property, have a bank account, vote...definitely because they DESIRED them, right?

A sane woman who is from a two parent household and has minimal trauma would NEVER willingly opt to be romantically involved with an older man. For example, a 24 year old female resident physician would never consider a romantic relationship with 46 year old male attending physician. Unless it involves career advice, mentorship, or additional money.
She can literally be that man in less than 5 years, in regards to social status, wealth, etc. And she can quite literally visit another floor of the hospital and find a handsome, young 28 year old doctor. There is no need for the older male, and certainly no desire as studies have proven time and time again that women prefer dating men their own age.

Most males look terrible after 30 years old. Media has shifted the focus on women's looks so it hasn't been scrutinized enough. Most males have ED and receding hairlines, internal and external signs of poor fertility and aging. Majority of sperm banks cap donations at 32 years old. Are you surprised males have an optimal use before expiry date? I can go on, but there is no need to. As when the majority of males consider their property -- their sisters, daughters, nieces -- they would advise against a significant age-gap relationship, and that's all the proof you need. You'd love to bed a 22 year old daughter, just as long as your homeboy doesn't have access to your 22 year old daughter.