China has suffered more fatalities and property loss from landslides than any other nation. The recorded history of landslide hazards goes back nearly 4,000 years to 1789 B.C. Minimum data of historical famous landslide events are briefly mentioned. The total deaths due to landslides exceeds 250,000 during the period from 186 B.C. to A.D. 1987. Landslides have caused at least U.S. $0.5 billion in economic losses and 140-150 deaths each year for the period from 1951 to 1987. Great efforts have been made in China to reduce landslide hazards and recent progress is discussed.