Territorial disputes between the UK and Guatemala delayed the independence of Belize (formerly British Honduras) until 1981. Guatemala refused to recognize the new nation until 1992. Tourism has become the mainstay of the economy. The country remains plagued by high unemployment, growing involvement in the South American drug trade, and increased urban crime.
COUNTRY FACTS
Area:
total: 22,966 sq km
land: 22,806 sq km
water: 160 sq km
Countries
