Abstract: On the basis of comprehensive analysis of geology, paleomagnetics, GPS data and seismicity, the relationship between the movement of Ordos and Tarim blocks and strong earthquakes in China continent was discussed. Both Ordos and Tarim blocks are old intact solid blocks with simple inner structure. Fault depression zones or orogens around the two blocks are fractural and the inner structures are complex. The results show that the whole movement to the east and anticlockwise rotation of the Ordos block control the strike-slip fault and earthquake occurrences and that the movement to the north, clockwise rotation and underthrusting under orogens of Tarim block result in faults and earthquake occurrences around the block. The M_S≧6.0 earthquakes are mainly affected by the movement of the Tarim block, although Tianshan tectonic zone is a well-known seismic zone. The traditional stable blocks like Ordos and Tarim are truly intact solid active block, which is the main contributer to strong earthquakes on the border. The whole motion of the intact solid block plays a crucial role in strong earthquake occurrence around its border.

Key words: Ordos and Tarim blocks, Movement feature, Continental strong earthquake