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belize

Introduction

Overview of Belize

Belize is a country located in Central America, bordered by Guatemala to the north, Mexico to the east, and the Caribbean Sea to the south. With its unique geography and rich cultural heritage, Belize has been an attractive destination for travelers and adventurers for centuries.

Key Facts

  • Capital city: Belmopan
  • Population (2020): approximately 397,000
  • Area (total): 22,966 km² (8,867 sq mi)
  • Length of coastline: approximately 200 km (124 miles)
  • Currency: Belize Dollar (BZD)

Historical Context

Pre-Columbian Era

The first inhabitants of Belize were the Maya civilization, who flourished in the region from 3000 BCE to 1500 CE. The Maya built elaborate cities and temples, including the famous Caracol complex.

Spanish Colonization (1501-1842)

Belize was colonized by Spain in the 16th century, but it remained a Spanish colony until 1838 when it gained independence from Spain.

British Rule (1862-1981)

In 1862, Belize became a British protectorate, and in 1981, it gained full independence from the United Kingdom.

Significant Contributions

  • The discovery of pre-Columbian Maya artifacts has greatly advanced our understanding of the region's history
  • The country is home to several national parks and protected areas, including the famous Lamanai archaeological site
  • Belizean cuisine combines indigenous flavors with European influences, resulting in unique dishes such as rice and beans, chicken fritters, and fish soup

Impact

Tourism

Belize has become a popular destination for eco-tourism, with its lush rainforests, coral reefs, and diverse wildlife attracting visitors from around the world.

  • In 2019, Belize received over 2 million tourists, generating an estimated $1.5 billion in revenue
  • The country's natural attractions have made it one of the most popular destinations for scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing

Environmental Conservation

Belize has made significant strides in environmental conservation, with efforts to protect its coral reefs, mangrove forests, and other ecosystems.

  • In 1996, Belize became a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), aimed at regulating the international trade of endangered species
  • The

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  • Generation time: 2024-11-01 16:33:58
  • Keywords: belize, wiki, history, facts
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