Earthquakes have caused significant devastation and loss of life over the past 300 years. This article highlights some of the most dangerous earthquakes, detailing the date, location, magnitude, casualties, reason, and major cause of deaths. Notable events include the 1700 Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake in the United States, the 1755 Lisbon earthquake in Portugal, and the 1868 Arica earthquake in Chile. The infamous 1906 San Francisco earthquake resulted in extensive fire damage, while the 1923 Great Kanto earthquake in Japan caused massive fires and building collapses.

More recent disasters include the 1960 Valdivia earthquake in Chile, the most powerful ever recorded at a magnitude of 9.5, and the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake, which triggered a devastating tsunami, claiming approximately 230,000 lives. The 2010 Haiti earthquake and the 2011 Tohoku earthquake in Japan are also highlighted for their significant death tolls and destruction. Please note that some numbers of casualties are approximate values.

For more comprehensive information on these and other earthquakes, various online resources such as the US Geological Survey (USGS), the Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS), and the Global Seismographic Network (GSN) provide detailed data and analyses. These sources offer invaluable insights into the history, causes, and impacts of earthquakes, aiding in our understanding and preparedness for these powerful natural events.