The Shaoxing Earthquake occurred on January 14, 1185, in the region of Shaoxing, which is located in the Zhejiang Province of China. This seismic event is one of the most significant historical earthquakes recorded in the area due to its impact on the local population and the region's infrastructure.
During the Song Dynasty, the region around Shaoxing was an important cultural and economic center. The city was known for its wine production, the famous Shaoxing Wine, and its scenic landscapes which attracted scholars and poets. The earthquake struck at a time when the Song Dynasty was dealing with various internal and external pressures, including military conflicts with the Jin Dynasty to the north.
The aftermath of the Shaoxing Earthquake saw a significant response from the local and central governments of the Song Dynasty. Efforts were made to:
The earthquake is documented in various historical sources, including local gazettes, poems, and official records from the Song government. These documents provide insights into the social, economic, and political conditions of the time, as well as the immediate response to the disaster. The Zhejiang Provincial Chronicles offer some of the most detailed accounts of the event.