What is the fate of Adam's (PBUH) progeny?

            If they say that the generations of people after Christ were like those who came before him; how can it be that Satan was allowed to take hold of the previous generations but not the latter ones when they are equally related to Adam (PBUH)? They have also committed greater sins than those of the prophets of God before them. How come Satan was given the chance to punish the preceding prophets to Jesus and relieving tyrants and unbelievers proceeding Jesus (PBUH) from punishment?