The 7.9 Mw earthquake that struck San Francisco began early in the morning, creating widespread chaos immediately. The quake was centered near the San Andreas Fault, which had been relatively quiet before this catastrophic event. In just about 30 seconds, the earthquake caused immense destruction as it ruptured structures and utility lines across the city, resulting in fires that quickly engulfed neighborhoods. The earthquake itself caused buildings to sway and collapse, but the subsequent fires were responsible for most of the devastation, burning for several days due to broken water mains and ineffective firefighting efforts. By the end of the disaster, over 500 city blocks, including the iconic business district, were laid to waste.Relief efforts began immediately but were hampered by the extent of the destruction. Makeshift refugee camps were established, while the federal government and various charitable organizations scrambled to provide assistance to those displaced. The challenges faced during recovery highlighted significant shortcomings in building standards and urban planning, leading to reforms. The 1906 earthquake would instigate major changes in construction practices and emergency management protocols in California. For many survivors, the experience of loss and resilience became a defining moment in the community's history, prompting eventual rebuilding and revitalization efforts that shaped modern San Francisco.The earthquake fundamentally altered the city's infrastructure and social composition. It acted as a catalyst for change, leading to a renewed focus on earthquake preparedness and zoning laws. Over time, the event spurred developments in seismic research, leading to enhanced understanding of earthquakes and methods for mitigating their impact. The legacy of 1906 remains an important chapter in both the history of San Francisco and the evolution of urban resilience against natural disasters.