An Introduction To Belize

Belize is found in Central America, bordered by the Caribbean Sea northwest of Mexico and southwest of Guatemala.

History

Between 1500 BC and 900 AD, the Maya civilization occupied Belize. The first European settlers arrived only during the 16th century. British settlements started pouring in by 1638.

The name Belize is believed to be a derivation of the Spanish pronunciation of Wallace, who was the first pirate that established the first settlement in the land. Another possibility for the origin of the name may come from the Mayan word “belix” which means muddy water, pertaining to the Belize River.

In January of 1964, what was then still known as British Honduras became the first self-governing colony of the United Kingdom. It was in June of 1973 that the land was renamed to Belize. At this time, it was the only colony of the United Kingdom on American soil. In September of 1981, George Price led Belize to full independence, but this was delayed until 1992, because of a territorial dispute with Guatemala.

Up to this day, the territorial dispute between the two lands has not been resolved. Help for mediation has been sought from the United Kingdom. Record books have always stated that Guatemala tried to stake claims to the territory of Belize. Although the dispute has not been settled, both Guatemala and Belize have entered cooperative measures to help both countries progress.

Holidays for Vacation

National holidays for Belize include Baron Bliss Day celebrated on the ninth of March; Commonwealth Day set on every second Monday of March; Labor Day celebrated on the first of May; the commemoration of The Battle of St. George’s Caye on the 10th of September; Belize National Independence Day every 21st of September; Pan American Day on the 13th of October; Garifuna Settlement Day on the 19th of November; and Christmas Day, celebrated in Belize and throughout the world on December 25.