Catalogue of Violent and Destructive Earthquakes in the Philippines With an Appendix: Earthquakes in the Marianas Islands 1599-1909   By: Miguel Saderra Masó (-1939)

Catalogue of Violent and Destructive Earthquakes in the Philippines With an Appendix: Earthquakes in the Marianas Islands 1599-1909 by Miguel Saderra Masó is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the history and science of earthquakes in the Philippines. This comprehensive catalogue provides an extensive and detailed account of seismic activity in the region from the late 16th century to the early 20th century.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in the meticulous collection and documentation of historical records and firsthand accounts of earthquakes. Masó's attention to detail is evident in his in-depth analysis of each earthquake, including its magnitude, epicenter, affected areas, and associated destruction. The author's extensive research, which involved deciphering old manuscripts, reports, and publications, shines through in the narrative, making this catalogue a valuable tool for historians, seismologists, and geologists alike.

Furthermore, Masó's expertise in seismology and his thorough examination of various sources enable him to establish a comprehensive framework for understanding the seismicity of the Philippines. The book contains numerous maps, charts, and tables that help visualize the earthquakes' locations and intensities, facilitating a deeper understanding of the patterns and trends in seismic activity across the archipelago.

Although the book primarily focuses on earthquakes in the Philippines, the included appendix on earthquakes in the Marianas Islands adds even more value to the overall work. This addition broadens the scope of the catalogue, presenting a comparative analysis of seismic events in the Marianas Islands during the same period. Masó's inclusion of this appendix not only expands the reader's knowledge of earthquake activity in the region but also highlights the interconnectedness of seismic events across adjacent areas.

While the content of the book is undoubtedly invaluable, it is worth noting that the writing style may be dense and technical for readers who are not well-versed in seismology. Some parts of the text require basic scientific background knowledge to fully grasp the concepts and terminology presented. However, the extensive footnotes and references provided by Masó allow interested readers to delve deeper into specific topics, making the catalogue accessible to both professional researchers and curious individuals seeking to expand their understanding of earthquakes.

In conclusion, Catalogue of Violent and Destructive Earthquakes in the Philippines With an Appendix: Earthquakes in the Marianas Islands 1599-1909 by Miguel Saderra Masó is an unparalleled scholarly work that offers a wealth of information on earthquakes in the Philippines and the Marianas Islands. Its meticulous research, comprehensive analysis, and valuable historical records make it an essential reference for anyone studying the seismicity of this region. Whether you are a scientist, historian, or simply interested in learning more about these natural phenomena, Masó's catalogue is an exceptional resource that deserves a place on your bookshelf.

First Page:

Introduction. The occasion for publishing this catalogue of Philippine earthquakes which were of violent and destructive character has been furnished by a request from Prof... Continue reading book >>