Search
 

Explosion in the Ring of Fire

There is no way to sugarcoat the tragedy of Deepwater Horizon, but there are lessons to be learned about responsible response. Here is the true story of a 19th-century insurance professional who lived in the hottest spot of the Pacific Ring of Fire.

By Barrett A. Evans,CPCU,AIC | Updated on September 13, 2010

The April 20, 2010 explosion of the Deepwater Horizon is undoubtedly an immense tragedy. Even months afterwards, crude oil continues to spill into the sea; the full extent of the enormous economic and ecological damages will likely not be understood for many more months or even years to come. While we should in no way minimize the significance of this terrible event, history shows that nature has brought about catastrophes that are even more terrible and destructive — and on an exponentially greater scale. What follows is the true story of one 19th-century insurance professional that lived in the hottest spot of the volcanic region commonly called the Pacific Ring of Fire.

The respectable Mr. Schuit had the uncommon fortune of being a Lloyd’s of London agent in the Sunda Strait in 1883, situated among the 25,000 islands in the vast archipelago commonly known as the East Indies. He loved to watch the shipping lanes from his spacious wooden deck as steam-powered vessels and sailboats glided past. The warm tropical breezes and ample compensation made it seem like the complete package.

Want to continue reading?
Become a Free
PropertyCasualty360 Digital Reader.

INCLUDED IN A DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP:

  • All PropertyCasualty360.com news coverage, best practices, and in-depth analysis.
  • Educational webcasts, resources from industry leaders, and informative newsletters.
  • Other award-winning websites including BenefitsPRO.com and ThinkAdvisor.com.

Already have an account?

NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2024 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

Recommended Stories

PropertyCasualty360

Join PropertyCasualty360

Don’t miss crucial news and insights you need to make informed decisions for your P&C insurance business. Join PropertyCasualty360.com now!

  • Unlimited access to PropertyCasualty360.com - your roadmap to thriving in a disrupted environment
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including BenefitsPRO.com, ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com
  • Exclusive discounts on PropertyCasualty360, National Underwriter, Claims and ALM events

Already have an account? Sign In Now
Join PropertyCasualty360

Copyright © 2024 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.