April 7, 2012 Major Global Earthquakes Over the last 2,000 Years: The world map above was produced from the NOAA website. It reflects all global earthquakes greater than or equal to 7.0 magnitude.
To interpret the map, use the following legend:
The legend shows earthquake magnitudes across the top and the effects of those earthquakes, in terms of deaths, down the left side.
Generally, major earthquakes occur along the earths tectonic plates (the red lines on the map). However, this is not always the case. The Hawaiian Hot Spot and the New Madrid three major quakes in 1811 and 1812 are but two examples.
Also significant are the number of destructive earthquakes in Europe. This does not bode well for the European Union.
The Master of Disaster