1849 San Francisco earthquake

The 1849 San Francisco earthquake was a significant tremor caused by shifting faults along the San Andreas Fault system. It struck shortly after the California Gold Rush began, leading to widespread damage in the newly founded city. The earthquake likely measured around magnitude 7.8, causing buildings to collapse, fires, and loss of life. Its occurrence highlighted the region’s seismic activity and the need for future construction standards. Although less documented than later quakes, it marked one of California's earliest major seismic events, influencing awareness and preparedness for the area's earthquake hazards.