The Cumaná earthquake of 1853

Abstract

The earthquake of 15 July 1853 devastated Cumaná, severely affecting the parish of Santa Inés, which was the nodal centre of the region. The catastrophe resulted in high mortality, destruction of infrastructure and a negative impact on social, political and economic life, contributing to the collective despondency and demographic decline of the city. Moreover, the central government took advantage of the situation to consolidate its political control.