The Tangshan earthquake; also known as the Great Tangshan earthquake; was a natural disaster that occurred on July 28; 1976. It is believed to be the largest earthquake of the 20th century by death toll. The epicenter of the earthquake was near Tangshan in Hebei; People's Republic of China; an industrial city with approximately one million inhabitants.

The number of deaths initially reported by the Chinese government was 655;000; but this number has since been stated to be around 240;000 to 255;000. Another report indicates that the actual death toll was much higher; at approximately 650;000; and explains that the lower estimates are limited to Tangshan and exclude fatalities in the densely populated surrounding areas.

A further 164;000 people were recorded as being severely injured. The earthquake occurred between a series of political events involving the Communist Party of China; ultimately leading to the expulsion of the ruling Gang of Four by Mao Zedong's chosen successor; Hua Guofeng. In traditional Chinese thought; natural disasters are seen as a precursor of dynastic change.