Belizean Studies: Understanding The Rich Cultural Heritage Of Belize

Belizean Studies is a four-year secondary-level program that focuses on the geographical space within and culturally connected to Belize. It explores the origins and development of Belize in an international context through the lens of anthropology, geography, history, philosophy, literature, and sociology. The program is divided into eight strands, each taught in units of two to three weeks.

Belizean history

Belize, formerly known as British Honduras, has a rich and complex history. The Maya civilisation, which flourished in the region between 1500 BC and 1000 AD, left behind several ruin sites, including Cahal Pech, Caracol, and Lamanai, which showcase the advanced nature of their society and dense population. The first recorded European incursions in the region were made by Spanish conquistadors and missionaries in the 16th century, attracted by the availability of logwood.

In the 17th century, British buccaneers and logwood cutters settled on the coast, leading to colonial rivalry between Spain and the United Kingdom. The Treaty of Paris in 1763 conceded to Britain the right to cut logwood but asserted Spanish sovereignty over the territory. This conflict continued until the 19th century, with the last Spanish attack on the British settlement occurring in 1796.

The early 19th century saw the arrival of the Garifuna, descendants of Caribs and Africans, who settled on the southern coast of Belize. The importation of enslaved Africans also began during this period to cut logwood and mahogany. Several revolts by enslaved people occurred, and many escaped to neighbouring countries. The act to abolish slavery throughout the British colonies was passed in 1833, but former slaves remained tied to logging operations and faced oppressive conditions.

In 1862, Belize officially became the British colony of British Honduras, ruled by a governor subordinate to the governor of Jamaica. This period saw increased resistance from the Maya people, who had inhabited the region for centuries. In 1871, British Honduras became a crown colony, with the Legislative Assembly abolished.

The early 20th century was marked by economic stagnation and the devastating impact of the Great Depression. A series of strikes and demonstrations by labourers and the unemployed led to the formation of trade unions and the People's United Party (PUP), which played a crucial role in the independence movement.

Belize achieved internal self-government in 1964 and full independence on 21 September 1981, despite ongoing Guatemalan claims to the territory. The border dispute with Guatemala remained unresolved, and tensions continued into the early 21st century.

Belizean culture

Belizean Studies is a four-year secondary-level program that explores the origins and development of Belize's culture, politics, economy, society, and environment. The program utilises concepts and techniques from anthropology, geography, history, philosophy, literature, and sociology to understand Belize in a global context.

The Belizean school system, influenced by both British and American academic traditions, plays a significant role in shaping the country's culture. The system includes primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, with religious denominations controlling a large portion of primary schools and the government managing a significant number of secondary institutions.

Belize's cultural diversity is further showcased in its variety of languages, including English, Spanish, Creole, Garifuna, Maya, and Kekchi. The country's unique geographical location as an Anglo-Creole enclave on the Central American mainland contributes to its cultural distinctiveness.

Belizean geography

Belize is a small Central American country located on the Yucatán Peninsula, with a total area of 22,966 km2 (8,867 sq mi). It is bordered by Mexico to the north and Guatemala to the west and south, with a coastline along the Caribbean Sea to the east. The country's geography is characterised by lowlands, coastal plains, and the Maya Mountains, offering a diverse landscape that ranges from flat, swampy areas to rugged mountain ranges.

The northern lowlands of Belize comprise flat, marshy landscapes that are home to the country's most productive agricultural lands. This region is known for its sugarcane and citrus fruit cultivation. The coastal plains stretch along the eastern side of the country, featuring swampy savanna and lagoon-laced mangrove ecosystems. Offshore, Belize boasts the Belize Barrier Reef, part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, which is the second-largest reef system in the world. This reef plays a crucial role in supporting marine life, protecting the coastline, and contributing to the country's tourism industry.

In contrast, the southern interior of Belize is dominated by the Maya Mountains, which stretch from Belize into Guatemala. This highland region presents rocky landscapes, steep slopes, and fast-flowing rivers. The highest point in Belize, Doyle's Delight, stands at 1,124 meters (3,688 feet) and is located in this region. The Maya Mountains also provide an important source of timber and other forest products.

Belize is home to several significant rivers, including the Belize River, which is the country's longest at 290 kilometers (180 miles) in length. Other notable rivers include the Hondo River, forming part of the northern border with Mexico, and the Sarstoon River, which delineates the southern boundary with Guatemala.

The country also features numerous islands or cayes, with Ambergris Caye being the largest. These islands contribute to Belize's biodiversity and offer unique habitats for many species. Overall, Belize's geography is diverse and varied, ranging from mountainous regions to coastal plains and lowlands, all contributing to the country's unique character and natural beauty.

Belizean politics

Belize is a democracy that has experienced regular rotations of power through competitive elections. The 31 members of the House of Representatives are directly elected to a maximum five-year term of office. The Senate consists of 13 senators plus the president of the Senate. The senators are appointed by the governor-general, with six on the advice of the prime minister, three on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and the rest on the advice of various civil associations.

The current prime minister of Belize is Johnny Briceño, who leads the PUP. The governor-general is Froyla Tzalam, who acts on the advice of the prime minister and the cabinet. The king of Belize, who serves as head of state, is King Charles III.

Belize has a system of local government, including city and town councils, village councils, and community councils. The two city councils and seven town councils cover the country's urban population, while the village and community councils cover the rural population.

The legal system in Belize is modelled on English common law. The Supreme Court and the Court of Appeal are independent of the national government. In 2009, Belize adopted the Caribbean Court of Justice as its final court of appeal, replacing the Privy Council.

Belizean economics

Belize's economy is a small, private enterprise economy based primarily on agriculture, tourism, and services. The country's economy is highly susceptible to external market changes and is vulnerable to world commodity price fluctuations.

Belize's primary exports are citrus fruits, sugar, and bananas. In 2018, Belize produced 1.7 million tons of sugarcane, 100,000 tons of oranges, 80,000 tons of bananas, and 77,000 tons of maize, in addition to smaller yields of other agricultural products such as papaya, rice, and soy. The country's agricultural sector also includes seafood exports, which have been increasing. In 2022, agriculture and seafood exports rose by 10.7%.

Belize's secondary exports include apparel, shrimp, and citrus products. The country has a small domestic industry, constrained by high labour and energy costs and a small domestic market. However, it attracts foreign investment in sectors such as energy, telecommunications, and agriculture. Belize is also considered a tax haven.

Tourism is a significant contributor to Belize's economy, comprising approximately 40% of the country's economic activity. The country's natural attractions, including its extensive coral reefs, diverse ecosystems, and ancient Mayan ruins, make it a popular destination for ecotourism. In 2012, tourist arrivals totalled 917,869, generating over $1.3 billion in revenue.

Belize faces challenges in economic stability, particularly regarding tax collection and spending. The country has a trade deficit, partly due to low export prices for sugar and bananas. Additionally, the manufacturing industry has been in decline since 2022 due to high utility costs.

Belize's economic performance is closely tied to its trading partners, with the United States as its primary partner. In 2022, the United States accounted for 42% of Belize's imports and was the second-largest export destination, receiving 20% of exports. Other major trading partners include the European Union, Mexico, Canada, and Caribbean Community (CARICOM) member states.

Belize has a history of stable democratic governance and a strong tradition of civilian control over its military forces. The country gained independence from the United Kingdom on 21 September 1981 and has maintained a parliamentary constitutional monarchy with a bicameral National Assembly. The country's political landscape is dominated by the centre-left People's United Party (PUP) and the centre-right United Democratic Party (UDP).

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