heidernm wrote:
I've looked on this page and so far none of it really pertains to my situation. Is there maybe a way to recover files from the backups manually?
3-2-1 Backup Strategy: three copies of your data, two different methods, and one offsite.
How to create a boot clone https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-10081
Back up your Mac with Time Machine: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201250
From the Finder you can try use the keys Shift Command C to enter TM
This will bring upfront your main drive. You can now scroll back in time. Once you get where you want you can then open the drive and scroll down to your user library and then documents, downloads, etc. and find the item you want. Then copy to desktop and use or move from there.
Mac inherits your backup history - Apple Support
https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/if-your-new-mac-inherits-your-backup-history-mh35732/mac