Americas/Central America
Belize
Belmopan
417.6K
22 966 km²
Belize dollar
Coastal
Belizean Creole, English, Spanish
Historical Events
1500 - Maya Civilization Flourishing
The Maya civilization spread into Belize and flourished until about 1200.
1502 - European Contact
Christopher Columbus sailed along the Gulf of Honduras, marking European contact.
1638 - English Settlement
English settlers began exploration of Belize, establishing a presence in the region.
1798 - Battle of St. George's Caye
Britain defeated Spain in the Battle of St. George's Caye, securing control over Belize.
1840 - British Colony Establishment
Belize was officially established as a British colony.
1862 - Crown Colony Status
Belize became a Crown colony under British rule, increasing governance direct from Britain.
1981 - Independence from the UK
Belize achieved its independence from the United Kingdom on 21 September.