How do scientists know that extinction has been a common event throughout earth's history?

There is proof of it. Such as fossils, records, videos, etc. Dinosaurs and Thylacines for example. Both of these have been extinct for quite some time. Although there is footage of some Thylacines there isn't any of any Dinosaurs. However, there is fossils and bones found from Dinosaurs. There has been fossils from many extinct animals dating back millions of years, therefore proving its a common event through history. 

In my opinion its the second one.. hope it