Major Earthquakes That Changed Geography and History

The largest recorded earthquake in history, causing widespread destruction and a tsunami affecting several countries.

Triggered a destructive tsunami affecting Hawaii and causing significant loss of life.

Resulted in significant displacement and economic loss, with a tsunami affecting several countries.

Caused a tsunami affecting several countries and resulted in significant loss of life.

Generated a significant tsunami but caused minimal damage due to its remote location.

Generated a tsunami affecting Hawaii and causing significant property damage.

Caused massive landslides and changes in landforms, affecting several countries.

Caused a devastating tsunami and nuclear disaster in Japan, significantly impacting global nuclear policies.

• NCEI

Triggered a massive tsunami affecting multiple countries, resulting in one of the deadliest natural disasters in history.

Second-largest recorded earthquake, causing significant land changes and tsunamis.

• USGS