Belize: History

1638

The first recorded European settlement is established by shipwrecked English seamen, although the area had been claimed by Spain. Over the next 150 years, more English settlements are built.

1862 Belize is officially declared a crown colony called British Honduras.

1930s

The Belizean economy is hit by the Great Depression. Additionally, Belize City is largely destroyed by a Hurricane.

1964

A new constitution gives Belize full internal self-government.

1973 The country changes its name from British Honduras to Belize.

1981 Belize declares complete independence from Britain.

2006

Belize begins commercial exploitation of its oil reserves.

2012

Belize's credit rating is reduced to “selective” default by ratings agency Standard and Poor's.

2015

Prime Minister Barrow leads the United Democratic Party to a third consecutive term in a snap election.

2022

Belize and Guatemala submit initial briefs on their ongoing border dispute to the International Court of Justice.