Belize became independent in 1981. The country possesses deep forests, a beautiful coastline, and a lifestyle that appeals to vacationers. Read this book to find out: how Britain fought Spain's claim to Belize beginning in the 1700s; why Guatemala refused to recognize Belize as a new nation in 1981; why the head of state in Belize is the British queen; which ancient Amerindian civilization has been linked to ruins throughout Belize; and, which North American Christian religious group established a large colony in Belize not long ago. In addition, in this book you'll find project and report ideas - including enough recipes for an authentic Belizean buffet - a glossary, a list of festivals, organizations to contact for more information, and suggestions for further reading. There's a lot to discover about Belize today.