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Belize is a small Country located in Central America, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the south and west, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. It has a rich and varied history, beginning with the indigenous Maya civilization. The first recorded settlement of Europeans in Belize was in 1638, when British settlers arrived from the nearby island of St. Kitts. The settlement was eventually abandoned, but the British returned in the late 1700s and established a permanent settlement. In 1862, Belize became a British Colony known as British Honduras. During the late 19th century, the colony was the center of the British timber industry in Central America. In 1973, Belize became an internally self-governing country and in 1981, it achieved full independence. Today, Belize is a vibrant democracy with a diverse population, culture, and economy. Its history is an important part of its identity, and its citizens take pride in their country’s unique heritage.