Belize
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Belize
Belize: A Jewel of Central America
Belize, a small nation nestled on the northeastern coast of Central America, is a land of captivating contrasts and rich cultural tapestry. Bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east, Belize offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and a vibrant, multicultural society. Its relatively small size belies its immense appeal, drawing visitors and residents alike with its pristine coral reefs, lush rainforests, ancient Maya ruins, and a laid-back Caribbean charm. Understanding Belize requires delving into its diverse demographics, dynamic economy, fascinating geography, and a complex history that has shaped its present identity.
The demographic landscape of Belize is a mosaic of ethnicities and cultures, a direct reflection of its historical interactions and migrations. The largest ethnic group is the Mestizo, a blend of Spanish and Maya heritage, primarily concentrated in the northern and western districts. Following closely are the Kriol, descendants of African slaves and European settlers, who are prominent in the coastal areas and the Belize City region, and their language, Kriol, serves as a common lingua franca. A significant and culturally distinct population is the Garifuna, who arrived in the late 18th century from the island of St. Vincent, bringing with them a unique language, music, and traditions that are a vital part of Belize’s cultural heritage, particularly in the southern coastal towns. Maya communities, representing various subgroups like the Yucatec, Mopan, and Kekchi Maya, maintain their ancestral presence, especially in the southern and western interior, preserving ancient languages and customs. More recent migrations have introduced significant East Indian, Chinese, and Mennonite populations, each contributing their distinct cultural influences and economic activities. This rich ethnic diversity fosters a unique societal dynamic, characterized by a remarkable degree of intermingling and mutual respect, creating a truly multicultural nation where different traditions coexist harmoniously. The official language is English, a legacy of its British colonial past, but Spanish is widely spoken, especially in areas bordering Guatemala and Mexico, and Kriol is ubiquitous. This linguistic diversity further enriches the Belizean experience, offering a glimpse into the varied origins of its people.
Belizes economy, while still developing, has shown resilience and a growing reliance on its natural assets and tourism. Historically, agriculture, particularly sugar cane and citrus, formed the backbone of the economy. While these sectors remain important, tourism has emerged as the primary driver of economic growth. The countrys unparalleled natural beauty, including the Belize Barrier Reef – the second-largest barrier reef in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – attracts divers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts from across the globe. The Maya Mountains and dense rainforests offer opportunities for eco-tourism, adventure activities like zip-lining and cave tubing, and exploration of ancient archaeological sites. The agricultural sector continues to be a significant employer and contributor, with key exports including sugar, citrus products, bananas, and seafood. Offshore banking and financial services also play a role in the economy, though efforts are underway to enhance transparency and compliance with international regulations. The government actively promotes foreign investment, particularly in sectors related to tourism infrastructure, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy. Challenges remain, including a reliance on external markets, vulnerability to natural disasters like hurricanes, and the need for continued investment in education and infrastructure to foster broader economic development and reduce poverty. However, Belize’s strategic location, unique natural resources, and growing international appeal position it for continued economic expansion in the coming years.
Geographically, Belize is a land of remarkable diversity, offering a striking array of landscapes within its relatively compact territory. The eastern coastline is dominated by the Caribbean Sea, characterized by a stunning chain of coral reefs, atolls, and cayes, which are small, low-lying islands. This marine ecosystem is a global biodiversity hotspot, teeming with marine life and providing unparalleled opportunities for water-based recreation. Inland, the terrain transitions dramatically. The northern districts are generally low-lying coastal plains, featuring fertile agricultural land and mangrove swamps. As one moves westward and southward, the land rises into the Maya Mountains, a rugged and densely forested range that covers a significant portion of the country. These mountains are home to ancient Maya ruins, hidden waterfalls, and a rich variety of flora and fauna, including jaguars, howler monkeys, and a plethora of bird species. Numerous rivers crisscross the country, many originating in the Maya Mountains and flowing towards the Caribbean Sea, providing vital freshwater resources and serving as transportation routes in some areas. The climate is tropical, with distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season, from June to November, brings higher humidity and rainfall, while the dry season, from December to May, offers sunshine and pleasant temperatures, making it the peak tourist season. This diverse geography not only shapes Belizes natural environment but also influences its human settlement patterns, economic activities, and cultural development.
The history of Belize is a fascinating narrative of ancient civilizations, colonial encounters, and the struggle for self-determination. The land was once a thriving center of the Maya civilization, with impressive cities like Caracol, Xunantunich, and Lamanai flourishing for centuries before their decline. Evidence of their sophisticated culture, architecture, and astronomical knowledge is still visible today in the numerous archaeological sites scattered across the country. European contact began in the 17th century with British, French, and Spanish logwood cutters, but it was the British who eventually established a lasting presence, primarily through the Baymen, who were primarily English and Scottish settlers engaged in logging mahogany. Despite Spanish claims to the territory, the British gradually consolidated their control, leading to conflicts such as the Battle of St. Georges Caye in 1798, a pivotal event in Belizean history. In 1862, British Honduras was officially declared a Crown Colony. The colonial era brought significant social and economic changes, including the importation of enslaved Africans to work in the logging industry. The abolition of slavery in 1838 led to new labor dynamics and the eventual emergence of the Kriol population as a dominant cultural force. Throughout the 20th century, Belizeans increasingly sought greater autonomy, culminating in full independence from the United Kingdom on September 21, 1981. However, the territorial dispute with neighboring Guatemala, which claims Belize as its own, has remained a lingering issue, though diplomatic efforts and international mediation have helped to manage tensions and foster cooperation. The history of Belize is thus a testament to its enduring spirit, shaped by the legacies of its indigenous past, colonial experiences, and the ongoing pursuit of national identity and sovereignty.
Information about country Belize
Automated text translation, excuse errors, please!
Informations are from the publication CIA The World Factbook.
Country Belize is situated in a location / continent Central America. Belize has an area of 22 966 km2 and 327 719 residents. The highest point has a height 1 160 above sea level.. The lowest point is located at the level of 0 above sea level and it is named Caribbean Sea. System of government is Republic, Commonwealth member country.The capital city is Belmopan. Belize has the international abbreviation BH.
Belize - economy
Total gross domestic product (GDP) is 2 836 000 000 $. Total gross domestic product per capita in purchasing power parity is 8 400 $. GDP grows by 2.50 % a year. Inflation (consumer price index) is equal to 1.80 % a year. Belize have 120 500 working-age population (from a total population 327 719 people). Unemployment is at 13.10 %. Belize issued 3.30 % GDP to healt care and 1,40 % GDP to army. The public debt of the country is 84.80 % GDP. The total amount of foreign debt is 1 079 000 000 USD.
Belize - transport and telecommunications
Belize has 3 007 km of roads and 43 airports. The total length of waterways (navigable rivers, canals, etc.) is 825 km. There is registered 247 ships.
Number of active mobile phones (sim card) in the country Belize is 203 000. Number of active fixed telephone lines is 28 800. Belize has 36 000 internet users, who have the available 7 464 Internet connections. Belize has been assigned a domain first Choose range .bz.
Belize - demography
As suggested above, Belize has 327 719 people. Population growth is in the amount 2.01 % per year. Number of children born per 1000 population per year is 26.02.Every mother has average 3.15 children. The infant mortality rate is 21.37 and maternal mortality 53.00 deaths per 100,000 births. Average estimated life expectancy makes 68.28 years. Mortality is 5.91 people per 1000 population per year.
Belize - energetics
Belize consumes a year 285 700 000 kWh of electricity. Annual electricity production is 307 200 000 kWh in power plants with a total installed electrical capacity 102 100 kW. Belize exports 0 kWh and imports 0 kWh of electricity per year Energy mix of power generation is as follows: fossil fuels: 33.3 %, nuclear energy: 0 %, renewable: 29.5 %, hydropower: 37.2 %. The country Belize is harvested annually 4 000 barrels of oil.
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