Belize Literature Review Outline Done
I finished the outline for the Belize Literature Review last week. It is posted below. I started the first draft yesterday. I will post the first draft when its completed.
Introduction
Hook sentence:
Statement of Purpose:
The purpose of this literature review is to provide a concise overview of the culture, language, and community in Belize.
Geography and Physical Features
− Country
− Population – near 300,000 (Wikipedia, 2006)
− males outnumber females by 1%.(Government of Belize, 1999)
− Annual growth rate (2004 est.): 6.0% (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Most sparsely populated nation in Central America
Larger than El Salvador (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Comparable in size to the State of Massachusetts
More than half of population lives in rural areas
About one-fourth of population lives in Belize City (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Belize City - principal port, commercial center, and former capital city (U.S Department of State, 2005)
Capital (Government of Belize, 1999)
− Belmopan - capital of the country
− Built in 1970
− Seat of Government
− “Garden City” of the country
− Created following extensive damage to the former capital Belize City, caused by Hurricane Hattie in 1961
− Geographically located at the centre of the country (80 kilometers to the south-west of Belize City on higher ground)
− Hurricane refuge for Belizeans
− Largest number of hurricane shelters in the country
− Population - 11,100
− Belize City - remains the hub of commercial activity and one of the most urbanized centers of Belize
− Population - 58,000
− Population Estimates (2003)
− The following tables list the towns and District population estimates by mid 2003:
− Cayo
− San Ignacio/Santa Elena 15,400
− Benque Viejo 6,300
− Belmopan 11,100
− Cayo Rural 28,200
− Total 61,000
− Belize
− Belize City 64,100
− San Pedro Town 6,800
− Belize Rural 16,600
− Total 87,500
− Orange Walk
− Orange Walk Town 14,700
− Orange Walk Rural 28,100
− Total 42,800
− Stann Creek
− Dangriga Town 10,000
− Stann Creek Rural 17,900
− Total 27,900
− Corozal
− Corozal Town 8,500
− Corozal Rural 26,100
− Total 34,600
− Toledo
− Punta Gorda Town 4,800
− Toledo Rural 21,200
− Total 26,000
Geography and Physical Features (Government of Belize, 1999)
Lies on the eastern or Caribbean coast of Central America
Bounded on the north and part of the west by Mexico
Bounded on the south and the remainder of the west by Guatemala
Inner coastal waters are shallow and sheltered by a line of coral reefs, dotted with islets called 'cayes', extending almost the entire length of the country
Low coastal plain, most of it covered with mangrove swamp
Land rises gradually towards the interior
Maya Mountains and Cockscomb Range make up southern half of Belize
Highest point - Doyle's Delight (1124 meters above sea level) in the Cockscomb Range
Cayo District in the West includes the Mountain Pine Ridge, ranging from 305 to around 914 metres above sea level
Northern districts have considerable areas of tableland
Many rivers, some of them navigable for short distances by shallow-draught vessels
Large part of the mainland is forest.
Area of the mainland and cayes is 8,867 square miles
Greatest length - north to south - 280 kilometres
Greatest width - 109 kilometres
Subtropical climate, tempered by trade winds
Temperatures in coastal districts range from about 10 °C (50°F) to about 35.6°C (96°F)
Rainfall varies from an average of 1,295 millimetres in the north to 4,445 millimetres in the extreme south
Dry season usually extends from February to May and there is sometimes a dry spell in August
− Eastern coast of Central America on the Caribbean Sea (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Bordered by Mexico to northwest and Guatemala to west and south (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy - recognizes Queen Elizabeth II as Sovereign (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Belize River - Belize's longest river (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Belize City - former capital and largest city (Wikipedia, 2006).
− only English-speaking country in Central America (Wikipedia, 2006).
− British colony for longer than a century (then called British Honduras until 1973) (Wikipedia, 2006).
− became an independent nation in 1981 (Wikipedia, 2006).
− member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Sistema de Integración Centroamericana (SICA) (Wikipedia, 2006).
− considered culturally both Caribbean and Central American
− smallest populated non-island sovereign state in Americas (Wikipedia, 2006).
The National Flag (Government of Belize, 1999)
− The red, white and blue flag of Belize is a symbol of the unity of our nation.
royal blue flag with one horizontal red stripe at the top, one at the bottom, and a white circle with the Coat of Arms in the centre.
Community
− Multiple ethnic groups, language, and cultures (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Multi-racial and multi-ethnic (Winsor & Hansen, 1999; Wikipedia, 2006)
− Most Belizeans - multiracial descent (US Department of State, 2005)
− Many Belizeans do not identify themselves by their primary ethnic background – they just call themselves “Belizeans” (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Ethnic diversity:
− Caused by colonization, slavery, and immigration
− 3 largest groups: Mestizo, and Creole, and Mayan (Wikipedia, 2006).
Ethnic groups (Wikipedia, 2006).
Belize Creole
Garifuna
Mestizo
Maya
Mennonite (Dutch/German farmers)
East Indian/Syrian/Lebanese
East Asian: Chinese, Taiwanese, Korean
Mainland African: Nigeria and elsewhere
Caribbean: Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba etc.
American
− Present ethnic proportions (Wikipedia, 2006):
− Mertizos – 50% total population
− Creoles - 25%
Maya, Garifuna, Mennonite Dutch/German farmers, Central Americans, whites from America, Africans, and Cubans – remaining 25%
1. Creole
− 2nd largest ethnic group
− blend of English settlers and African slaves (although “Creole” is commonly thought of as French origin
− tend to live in larger, urban areas (Belize City)
distinctive culture (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Creoles (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− one of the most prominent ethnic groups (30% of total population, 2001
− descendants of early British settlers with African slaves
− recognized prominently by their values and way of life
− 2/3 of Creole population reside in Belize City
− Creole men have commonly worked in logging
Now commonly work in civil service
first African slaves (Wikipedia, 2006) began arriving from other countries in Caribbean and Africa and procreated with whites and each other = creating Creole ethnic group
2. Mestizo
− mixed ancestry
− combines Spanish and Indian heritage
− majority of Belizeans
− About 48.7% of population is of mixed Mayan and European descent (Mestizo) (US Department of State, 2005)
− Spanish never established colonies in Belize
− Mestizos living here now are mostly refugees from mid-1800's (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Mestizo (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− about 48% of total population
− descendants of mixed blood Mexicans and Yucatec Mayans
− fled from the Yucatan in the mid 1800's
− 1840 - settled in Belize in to escape La Guerra de Castas in Yucatan
− most occupy northern regions of Corozal and Orange walk and western district of Cayo
− integral part of Belizean community
instrumental in growth and progress of the county
− Mestizo (from Mexico and Guatemala) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− After 1800 - settled in North Belize
3. Garifuna
− Garifuna (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− 6.6% of total population
− About 6.1% are Afro-Amerindian (Garifuna) (US Department of State, 2005)
− have own language and culture
− came to Belize from the Bay Islands of Honduras in 1803
− Origin: African slaves, Carib and Arawak Indians
− Dominate southern towns of Punta Gorda and Dangriga as well as the villages of Seine Bight, Hopkins, Georgetown, and Barranco
− Some also reside in Belize City and Belmopan
− Fishing and agriculture traditional occupation
Rituals and traditions - still retained
− Garifuna (Wikipedia, 2006)
− Blend of African and Caribbean
After 1800 - settled in South Belize
4. Mayan
− About 10.6% are Mayan (US Department of State, 2005)
− descended from ancient Mayan civilization(Wikipedia, 2006).
− estimated that about 2 million Maya lived in Belize
(Wikipedia, 2006).
− Mayan history- over 2,000 years old (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− Yucatec, Mopan, and Kekchi (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− 3 Maya groups
− Yucatec Maya
− originated from Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico
− came to Belize in mid-1800’s running from Guerra de Castes (Caste War)
− now reside in Corozal, Orange Walk, and Cayo Districts
− Now speak English and Spanish rather than native language
− Mopan Maya (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Came to Belize in 1886 as flee from taxation and forced labor from the Peten region of Guatemala
− Reside in San Antonio Village in Toledo District and other villages in the Cayo District
− Kekchi Maya (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− came to Belize in 1870's as flee from enslavement by the German coffee growers in Verapaz, Guatemala
− Settled in lowland areas along rivers and streams, forming small isolated villages throughout Toledo
− Due to isolation, became most self reliant ethnic group in Belize
− peaceful people known for cooperative practices in farming and cultural development
− Maya (Wikipedia, 2006)
− most established of all ethnic groups
− resignated in Belize and Yucatan region since 500's AD
5. Mennonites (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− 1958 – came from Manitoba, Canada, Chihuahua, and Mexico
− reside in Orange Walk and Cayo Districts in six main communities: Blue Creek, Shipyard, Little Belize, Progresso, Spanish Lookout and Barton Creek
− easily identified by their apparels
− women wear bonnets and long dresses
− men wear denim overalls and hats
− The Mennonites have initiated own school, church, and financial institution
− well grounded in agriculture
− poultry products and Mennonite-crafted furniture are popular products sold in markets all over Belize.
Well known as hard working people
6. East Indians (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− about 2% total population
− settled in Belize after Emancipation in 1838
− many worked in sugar plantations
− spread out over many villages and towns primarily in Corozal and Toledo districts
− well integrated into total population
7. Asian (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Total population: 6,000
− As refugees, fled the Japanese invasion of China just before World War II
− Recently - Belizean government initiated economic citizenship program – provided many Taiwanese homes and helped them start businesses and work
− Asian (from Mainland China, Taiwan, Syria, Lebanon, and Korea) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− After 1900 - settled
8. African
− About 24.9% are of African and Afro-European (Creole) ancestry(US Department of State, 2005)
9. Caribbean
10. American
− Central American immigrants and expatriate Americans and Africans (Wikipedia, 2006)
− After 1900 - settled
11. European
− White English and Scottish settlers (Wikipedia, 2006)
− 1630's
exported logwood
−
Culture
− racial harmony and religious tolerance = successful blend of ethnic, language, culture (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Unique culture
− effortlessly blends ethnic groups, languages, religions, and more (Wikipedia, 2006).
− widespread reputation for its friendly peoples (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Naturally tolerant, friendly, fun-loving, courteous
− greet each other on the street even if they have never meet (Wikipedia, 2006)
− At times, not willing to fight for what they want and allow foreigners walk all over them (Wikipedia, 2006).
1. Social Structure and Social Dynamics
− Big gap between rich and poor, but not as big as in other Caribbean countries (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Historical 3 social classes/sectors: upper, middle, lower
− Upper: either white, light-skinned Creole, or Mestizo (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Middle: peoples of different ethnic backgrounds
working-class groups (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− shared dispositions toward education, cultural respectability, and possibilities for upward social mobility (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Lower: majority of Belizean population
Called “grass roots” or “roots” class
unskilled or semiskilled urban workers, subsistence farmers, agricultural laborers, and the unemployed
− severely limited access to land, higher education, or any other opportunity to change their marginal status (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
Social Dynamics:
− Changes over the last thirty years: (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Growth of educational opportunities
− Government employment has facilitated the increase of middle-class and gap between rich and poor
Education now seen as essential
Industries (Government of Belize, 1999)
2 largest industries – agriculture and tourism
Agriculture – largest industries are sugar, citrus, fisheries and bananas
Tourism – many natural, archaeological and cultural attractions
Work force (April 2004, 108,491): Services--61.4%. Agriculture, hunting, forestry, and fishing--20.4%. Industry and commerce--18.2% (US Department of State, 2005)
2. School
− Education: Years compulsory--9. (2000 est.): Attendance--60%. Literacy--76.5% (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Schools: overcrowded classrooms, absenteeism, poorly maintained buildings, few teaching resources, few reading materials for young children, but highly motivated teachers (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
Education (Government of Belize, 1999)
• Compulsory for children aged between 6 and 14
• Primary and Secondary education is free
1997:
• 53,110 students in 280 primary schools
• 10,912 students in 30 secondary schools
• 2500 students in 11 post secondary institutions
Government runs some of the schools but the churches run most schools.
Government maintains one special school for mentally disabled children and another for children with physical disabilities.
Centre for Employment Training (CET) - Belize City and San Ignacio
• Assists people who have not completed secondary school
• Training is based on employment trends and changes in the labour market
Belize Technical College - craft and technical courses
Belize Teachers College - two-year diploma course leading to trained teacher status
Belize Vocational Training Centre - Belize City
• Courses for primary school-leavers
Belize Youth Development Centre and Belize College of Agriculture
• Training for people entering the field of agro-industry.
University College of Belize
• Belize's first university
• opened in 1986
• Advanced training in the professional and technical fields
University of the West Indies - Belize City
• School of Continuing Education (SCE)
• Adult education classes and lectures
• Courses in social anthropology, constitutional law and conversational Spanish and Garifuna
• Encourages creative arts and sponsors an annual festival of dance, music and drama
Baron Bliss Institute - Belize City 74
• Well-equipped library service
• Maintains satellite libraries across the country
• Maintained and operated by the Government in order to encourage cultural activities
3. Marriage and Courtship:
− Intermarriage between members of different ethnic groups and mixed ancestry – common historically and presently (US Library of Congress, No date provided).
4. Religion
Religions: Roman Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, other Protestant, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist (U.S Department of State, 2005)
About 50% - Roman Catholic (U.S Department of State, 2005)
Anglican Church and other Protestant Christian groups account for most of the remaining 50% (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Roman Catholicism
− traditionally most common religion
− Protestant
− 2nd most common religion (from English influence)
Recent increase of Chinese and East Indian groups has led to an expansion in the number of religions represented (Wikipedia, *date)
5. Music
− Punta - most popular genre of Garifuna music
− most popular music genre in Belize
− Distinctly Afro-Caribbean, and is sometimes said to be ready for international popularization like similarly descended styles (reggae, calypso, merengue, etc) (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Brukdown
− very popular modern style of Belizean music
− evolved out of the music and dance of loggers, especially a form called buru (Wikipedia, *date).
6. Specific cultural practices(Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Maya Eco-Cultural System
− Attraction in Cayo District
− Visitors participate in “full Maya experience”
− People search rainforest in search of healing herbs
− Elders tell stories about past
− Garifuna Village Project (Garifuna community of Punta Gorda) - largest town in the Toledo District
− living museum in traditional Garifuna village
− restaurant, arts and crafts shop, and artifact museum
− Mexican culture: (Ambergris Caye, 2006)
− Mexican settlers brought a distinct culture with Spanish, Mayan and Catholic traditions
− Many traditions are still followed today
− Ex: religious feast days and celebrations
− Ex: Lenten Season - important Catholic tradition
− Ex: Quinceanos
− one of Ambergris Cayes most loved and spectacular events
− a "coming out" party for a young girl who turns fifteen
− purpose - announce to the community that the young girl was of a marriageable age and informed prospective husbands that the girl was available
− Now - still celebrated but . . .
− 15-year old girls - no longer advertised as fit to wed
− Now – act symbolizes girls passage from childhood to adulthood
− dressed – elaborate white gown (similar to wedding gown)
− girl has escorts and several maids with their escorts, along with her friends and family
− held at town's Catholic Church
− special mass is held
− ring is blessed by priest and presented to girl
− courtship and marriages traditions
− changed over time
− past - young men wanting to marry had to ask for permission from girl's parents to visit her at home in presence of all family members
− visits lasted no more than a few hours
− Past – girls had to be escorted by parents when attending dances
− Now – young people have more freedom
Language
Multi-ethnicity = creates unique blend of languages and communication(Wikipedia, 2006)
− Total languages: (Wikipedia, 2006)
− 8 different languages
70% of all Belizeans are bilingual or even trilingual (as of 2000 census)
1. English (Ambergris Caye, 2006)
− English - official language (Government of Belize, 1999); (US Department of State, 2005) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− most Belizeans - speak and understand English
− English(Belize Tourism Board, 2006) most common language spoken
− English (Wikipedia, 2006)
− official language (due to British colonization)
− 80% total population - literate
− 90% total population - can speak some English
− Colonial British declared Standard English as the official language of the country and of school instruction (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− Upon declaring independence, the Belizean government decided to maintain English as the official language (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− English is used in all forms of media and business/educational communication (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− Belizean children growing up in an isolated village without electricity begin school with no English exposure (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
2. Creole
− 2nd most common language spoken(Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− English Creole - widely spoken and remains a distinctive part of everyday conversations for most Belizeans (Government of Belize, 1999)
− derived from English language
− Kriol (Belizean Creole) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− most Belizeans - more familiar with Kriol than English (Winsor & Hansen, 1999) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− Many Belizeans speak their ethnic language at home and Creole when talking with others outside of home (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− Raucous and playful English-based language that contains colorful terms not usually translatable in English
− spoken by nearly everyone in Belize as either first- or second-language
− 95% total population in Belize City speak Kriol and English
− 70% total popuation - Kriol is first language
− 20% total population - speak Creole solely and not English
3. Spanish main language - still
− Spanish (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
becoming more commonly spoken
− Spanish - also common and is taught in primary and secondary schools in order to further develop bi-lingualism (Government of Belize, 1999)
− Spanish is spoken as a mother tongue by the majority of the people in the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts, north of Belize and the Cayo District in the west, In the southern Districts: Stann Creek and Toledo, there are people whose first language is Garifuna or Maya (Government of Belize, 1999)
−
− Spanish (Wikipedia, 2006)
− “mother tongue” of Mestizo and Central American settlers
− second language for most Belizeans
− 35% total population - first or second language
− 60% total population (majority language) in Orange Walk and Corozal Districts
− "Kitchen Spanish"
− informal Spanish that incorporates English, Maya and Creole words
− Ex: "pullar"
− comes from English root "pull" and adds Spanish suffix "ar"
− English definition is "pull"
4. Garifuna (Wikipedia)
(mix of Spanish, Carib and other languages)
− About 80% of Belizeans are literate
5. Mennonites (Dutch-German)
6. Maya (Wikipedia, 2006)
– ancestors once spoke, now - no longer spoken
− Ancient Maya dialects
− Less well known
Summary
References
Wikipedia. (2006). Belize. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belize. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.
Belize Tourism Board. (2006). About Belize. Available: http://www.travelbelize.org/cult.html
Bigelow, B. (no date provided). Lifestyles in Belize, Central America. Avaiable: http://www.peacecorner.org/belize_lifestyles.htm
Ambergris Caye. (2006). Belize Culture. Available:
http://www.goambergriscaye.com/cult.html
Winsor, P. J. T., Hansen, J. (1999). Coming to know as teachers: Learning together in Belize. Reading Teacher, 52 (8), 810-819. Available:
http://0-web.ebscohost.com.darius.uleth.ca/ehost/detail?vid=7&hid=108&sid=ac449271-cd67-4d9a-96cb-f54606f6d96f%40sessionmgr103
Government of Belize. (1999). About Belize. Available: http://www.belize.gov.bz/belize/national.html
U.S Department of State. (2005). Background note: Belize. Available: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/1955.htm
Introduction
Hook sentence:
Statement of Purpose:
The purpose of this literature review is to provide a concise overview of the culture, language, and community in Belize.
Geography and Physical Features
− Country
− Population – near 300,000 (Wikipedia, 2006)
− males outnumber females by 1%.(Government of Belize, 1999)
− Annual growth rate (2004 est.): 6.0% (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Most sparsely populated nation in Central America
Larger than El Salvador (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Comparable in size to the State of Massachusetts
More than half of population lives in rural areas
About one-fourth of population lives in Belize City (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Belize City - principal port, commercial center, and former capital city (U.S Department of State, 2005)
Capital (Government of Belize, 1999)
− Belmopan - capital of the country
− Built in 1970
− Seat of Government
− “Garden City” of the country
− Created following extensive damage to the former capital Belize City, caused by Hurricane Hattie in 1961
− Geographically located at the centre of the country (80 kilometers to the south-west of Belize City on higher ground)
− Hurricane refuge for Belizeans
− Largest number of hurricane shelters in the country
− Population - 11,100
− Belize City - remains the hub of commercial activity and one of the most urbanized centers of Belize
− Population - 58,000
− Population Estimates (2003)
− The following tables list the towns and District population estimates by mid 2003:
− Cayo
− San Ignacio/Santa Elena 15,400
− Benque Viejo 6,300
− Belmopan 11,100
− Cayo Rural 28,200
− Total 61,000
− Belize
− Belize City 64,100
− San Pedro Town 6,800
− Belize Rural 16,600
− Total 87,500
− Orange Walk
− Orange Walk Town 14,700
− Orange Walk Rural 28,100
− Total 42,800
− Stann Creek
− Dangriga Town 10,000
− Stann Creek Rural 17,900
− Total 27,900
− Corozal
− Corozal Town 8,500
− Corozal Rural 26,100
− Total 34,600
− Toledo
− Punta Gorda Town 4,800
− Toledo Rural 21,200
− Total 26,000
Geography and Physical Features (Government of Belize, 1999)
Lies on the eastern or Caribbean coast of Central America
Bounded on the north and part of the west by Mexico
Bounded on the south and the remainder of the west by Guatemala
Inner coastal waters are shallow and sheltered by a line of coral reefs, dotted with islets called 'cayes', extending almost the entire length of the country
Low coastal plain, most of it covered with mangrove swamp
Land rises gradually towards the interior
Maya Mountains and Cockscomb Range make up southern half of Belize
Highest point - Doyle's Delight (1124 meters above sea level) in the Cockscomb Range
Cayo District in the West includes the Mountain Pine Ridge, ranging from 305 to around 914 metres above sea level
Northern districts have considerable areas of tableland
Many rivers, some of them navigable for short distances by shallow-draught vessels
Large part of the mainland is forest.
Area of the mainland and cayes is 8,867 square miles
Greatest length - north to south - 280 kilometres
Greatest width - 109 kilometres
Subtropical climate, tempered by trade winds
Temperatures in coastal districts range from about 10 °C (50°F) to about 35.6°C (96°F)
Rainfall varies from an average of 1,295 millimetres in the north to 4,445 millimetres in the extreme south
Dry season usually extends from February to May and there is sometimes a dry spell in August
− Eastern coast of Central America on the Caribbean Sea (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Bordered by Mexico to northwest and Guatemala to west and south (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy - recognizes Queen Elizabeth II as Sovereign (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Belize River - Belize's longest river (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Belize City - former capital and largest city (Wikipedia, 2006).
− only English-speaking country in Central America (Wikipedia, 2006).
− British colony for longer than a century (then called British Honduras until 1973) (Wikipedia, 2006).
− became an independent nation in 1981 (Wikipedia, 2006).
− member of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Sistema de Integración Centroamericana (SICA) (Wikipedia, 2006).
− considered culturally both Caribbean and Central American
− smallest populated non-island sovereign state in Americas (Wikipedia, 2006).
The National Flag (Government of Belize, 1999)
− The red, white and blue flag of Belize is a symbol of the unity of our nation.
royal blue flag with one horizontal red stripe at the top, one at the bottom, and a white circle with the Coat of Arms in the centre.
Community
− Multiple ethnic groups, language, and cultures (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Multi-racial and multi-ethnic (Winsor & Hansen, 1999; Wikipedia, 2006)
− Most Belizeans - multiracial descent (US Department of State, 2005)
− Many Belizeans do not identify themselves by their primary ethnic background – they just call themselves “Belizeans” (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Ethnic diversity:
− Caused by colonization, slavery, and immigration
− 3 largest groups: Mestizo, and Creole, and Mayan (Wikipedia, 2006).
Ethnic groups (Wikipedia, 2006).
Belize Creole
Garifuna
Mestizo
Maya
Mennonite (Dutch/German farmers)
East Indian/Syrian/Lebanese
East Asian: Chinese, Taiwanese, Korean
Mainland African: Nigeria and elsewhere
Caribbean: Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba etc.
American
− Present ethnic proportions (Wikipedia, 2006):
− Mertizos – 50% total population
− Creoles - 25%
Maya, Garifuna, Mennonite Dutch/German farmers, Central Americans, whites from America, Africans, and Cubans – remaining 25%
1. Creole
− 2nd largest ethnic group
− blend of English settlers and African slaves (although “Creole” is commonly thought of as French origin
− tend to live in larger, urban areas (Belize City)
distinctive culture (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Creoles (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− one of the most prominent ethnic groups (30% of total population, 2001
− descendants of early British settlers with African slaves
− recognized prominently by their values and way of life
− 2/3 of Creole population reside in Belize City
− Creole men have commonly worked in logging
Now commonly work in civil service
first African slaves (Wikipedia, 2006) began arriving from other countries in Caribbean and Africa and procreated with whites and each other = creating Creole ethnic group
2. Mestizo
− mixed ancestry
− combines Spanish and Indian heritage
− majority of Belizeans
− About 48.7% of population is of mixed Mayan and European descent (Mestizo) (US Department of State, 2005)
− Spanish never established colonies in Belize
− Mestizos living here now are mostly refugees from mid-1800's (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Mestizo (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− about 48% of total population
− descendants of mixed blood Mexicans and Yucatec Mayans
− fled from the Yucatan in the mid 1800's
− 1840 - settled in Belize in to escape La Guerra de Castas in Yucatan
− most occupy northern regions of Corozal and Orange walk and western district of Cayo
− integral part of Belizean community
instrumental in growth and progress of the county
− Mestizo (from Mexico and Guatemala) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− After 1800 - settled in North Belize
3. Garifuna
− Garifuna (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− 6.6% of total population
− About 6.1% are Afro-Amerindian (Garifuna) (US Department of State, 2005)
− have own language and culture
− came to Belize from the Bay Islands of Honduras in 1803
− Origin: African slaves, Carib and Arawak Indians
− Dominate southern towns of Punta Gorda and Dangriga as well as the villages of Seine Bight, Hopkins, Georgetown, and Barranco
− Some also reside in Belize City and Belmopan
− Fishing and agriculture traditional occupation
Rituals and traditions - still retained
− Garifuna (Wikipedia, 2006)
− Blend of African and Caribbean
After 1800 - settled in South Belize
4. Mayan
− About 10.6% are Mayan (US Department of State, 2005)
− descended from ancient Mayan civilization(Wikipedia, 2006).
− estimated that about 2 million Maya lived in Belize
(Wikipedia, 2006).
− Mayan history- over 2,000 years old (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− Yucatec, Mopan, and Kekchi (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− 3 Maya groups
− Yucatec Maya
− originated from Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico
− came to Belize in mid-1800’s running from Guerra de Castes (Caste War)
− now reside in Corozal, Orange Walk, and Cayo Districts
− Now speak English and Spanish rather than native language
− Mopan Maya (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Came to Belize in 1886 as flee from taxation and forced labor from the Peten region of Guatemala
− Reside in San Antonio Village in Toledo District and other villages in the Cayo District
− Kekchi Maya (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− came to Belize in 1870's as flee from enslavement by the German coffee growers in Verapaz, Guatemala
− Settled in lowland areas along rivers and streams, forming small isolated villages throughout Toledo
− Due to isolation, became most self reliant ethnic group in Belize
− peaceful people known for cooperative practices in farming and cultural development
− Maya (Wikipedia, 2006)
− most established of all ethnic groups
− resignated in Belize and Yucatan region since 500's AD
5. Mennonites (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− 1958 – came from Manitoba, Canada, Chihuahua, and Mexico
− reside in Orange Walk and Cayo Districts in six main communities: Blue Creek, Shipyard, Little Belize, Progresso, Spanish Lookout and Barton Creek
− easily identified by their apparels
− women wear bonnets and long dresses
− men wear denim overalls and hats
− The Mennonites have initiated own school, church, and financial institution
− well grounded in agriculture
− poultry products and Mennonite-crafted furniture are popular products sold in markets all over Belize.
Well known as hard working people
6. East Indians (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− about 2% total population
− settled in Belize after Emancipation in 1838
− many worked in sugar plantations
− spread out over many villages and towns primarily in Corozal and Toledo districts
− well integrated into total population
7. Asian (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Total population: 6,000
− As refugees, fled the Japanese invasion of China just before World War II
− Recently - Belizean government initiated economic citizenship program – provided many Taiwanese homes and helped them start businesses and work
− Asian (from Mainland China, Taiwan, Syria, Lebanon, and Korea) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− After 1900 - settled
8. African
− About 24.9% are of African and Afro-European (Creole) ancestry(US Department of State, 2005)
9. Caribbean
10. American
− Central American immigrants and expatriate Americans and Africans (Wikipedia, 2006)
− After 1900 - settled
11. European
− White English and Scottish settlers (Wikipedia, 2006)
− 1630's
exported logwood
−
Culture
− racial harmony and religious tolerance = successful blend of ethnic, language, culture (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Unique culture
− effortlessly blends ethnic groups, languages, religions, and more (Wikipedia, 2006).
− widespread reputation for its friendly peoples (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Naturally tolerant, friendly, fun-loving, courteous
− greet each other on the street even if they have never meet (Wikipedia, 2006)
− At times, not willing to fight for what they want and allow foreigners walk all over them (Wikipedia, 2006).
1. Social Structure and Social Dynamics
− Big gap between rich and poor, but not as big as in other Caribbean countries (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Historical 3 social classes/sectors: upper, middle, lower
− Upper: either white, light-skinned Creole, or Mestizo (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Middle: peoples of different ethnic backgrounds
working-class groups (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− shared dispositions toward education, cultural respectability, and possibilities for upward social mobility (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Lower: majority of Belizean population
Called “grass roots” or “roots” class
unskilled or semiskilled urban workers, subsistence farmers, agricultural laborers, and the unemployed
− severely limited access to land, higher education, or any other opportunity to change their marginal status (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
Social Dynamics:
− Changes over the last thirty years: (US Library of Congress, no date provided).
− Growth of educational opportunities
− Government employment has facilitated the increase of middle-class and gap between rich and poor
Education now seen as essential
Industries (Government of Belize, 1999)
2 largest industries – agriculture and tourism
Agriculture – largest industries are sugar, citrus, fisheries and bananas
Tourism – many natural, archaeological and cultural attractions
Work force (April 2004, 108,491): Services--61.4%. Agriculture, hunting, forestry, and fishing--20.4%. Industry and commerce--18.2% (US Department of State, 2005)
2. School
− Education: Years compulsory--9. (2000 est.): Attendance--60%. Literacy--76.5% (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Schools: overcrowded classrooms, absenteeism, poorly maintained buildings, few teaching resources, few reading materials for young children, but highly motivated teachers (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
Education (Government of Belize, 1999)
• Compulsory for children aged between 6 and 14
• Primary and Secondary education is free
1997:
• 53,110 students in 280 primary schools
• 10,912 students in 30 secondary schools
• 2500 students in 11 post secondary institutions
Government runs some of the schools but the churches run most schools.
Government maintains one special school for mentally disabled children and another for children with physical disabilities.
Centre for Employment Training (CET) - Belize City and San Ignacio
• Assists people who have not completed secondary school
• Training is based on employment trends and changes in the labour market
Belize Technical College - craft and technical courses
Belize Teachers College - two-year diploma course leading to trained teacher status
Belize Vocational Training Centre - Belize City
• Courses for primary school-leavers
Belize Youth Development Centre and Belize College of Agriculture
• Training for people entering the field of agro-industry.
University College of Belize
• Belize's first university
• opened in 1986
• Advanced training in the professional and technical fields
University of the West Indies - Belize City
• School of Continuing Education (SCE)
• Adult education classes and lectures
• Courses in social anthropology, constitutional law and conversational Spanish and Garifuna
• Encourages creative arts and sponsors an annual festival of dance, music and drama
Baron Bliss Institute - Belize City 74
• Well-equipped library service
• Maintains satellite libraries across the country
• Maintained and operated by the Government in order to encourage cultural activities
3. Marriage and Courtship:
− Intermarriage between members of different ethnic groups and mixed ancestry – common historically and presently (US Library of Congress, No date provided).
4. Religion
Religions: Roman Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, other Protestant, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist (U.S Department of State, 2005)
About 50% - Roman Catholic (U.S Department of State, 2005)
Anglican Church and other Protestant Christian groups account for most of the remaining 50% (U.S Department of State, 2005)
− Roman Catholicism
− traditionally most common religion
− Protestant
− 2nd most common religion (from English influence)
Recent increase of Chinese and East Indian groups has led to an expansion in the number of religions represented (Wikipedia, *date)
5. Music
− Punta - most popular genre of Garifuna music
− most popular music genre in Belize
− Distinctly Afro-Caribbean, and is sometimes said to be ready for international popularization like similarly descended styles (reggae, calypso, merengue, etc) (Wikipedia, 2006).
− Brukdown
− very popular modern style of Belizean music
− evolved out of the music and dance of loggers, especially a form called buru (Wikipedia, *date).
6. Specific cultural practices(Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− Maya Eco-Cultural System
− Attraction in Cayo District
− Visitors participate in “full Maya experience”
− People search rainforest in search of healing herbs
− Elders tell stories about past
− Garifuna Village Project (Garifuna community of Punta Gorda) - largest town in the Toledo District
− living museum in traditional Garifuna village
− restaurant, arts and crafts shop, and artifact museum
− Mexican culture: (Ambergris Caye, 2006)
− Mexican settlers brought a distinct culture with Spanish, Mayan and Catholic traditions
− Many traditions are still followed today
− Ex: religious feast days and celebrations
− Ex: Lenten Season - important Catholic tradition
− Ex: Quinceanos
− one of Ambergris Cayes most loved and spectacular events
− a "coming out" party for a young girl who turns fifteen
− purpose - announce to the community that the young girl was of a marriageable age and informed prospective husbands that the girl was available
− Now - still celebrated but . . .
− 15-year old girls - no longer advertised as fit to wed
− Now – act symbolizes girls passage from childhood to adulthood
− dressed – elaborate white gown (similar to wedding gown)
− girl has escorts and several maids with their escorts, along with her friends and family
− held at town's Catholic Church
− special mass is held
− ring is blessed by priest and presented to girl
− courtship and marriages traditions
− changed over time
− past - young men wanting to marry had to ask for permission from girl's parents to visit her at home in presence of all family members
− visits lasted no more than a few hours
− Past – girls had to be escorted by parents when attending dances
− Now – young people have more freedom
Language
Multi-ethnicity = creates unique blend of languages and communication(Wikipedia, 2006)
− Total languages: (Wikipedia, 2006)
− 8 different languages
70% of all Belizeans are bilingual or even trilingual (as of 2000 census)
1. English (Ambergris Caye, 2006)
− English - official language (Government of Belize, 1999); (US Department of State, 2005) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− most Belizeans - speak and understand English
− English(Belize Tourism Board, 2006) most common language spoken
− English (Wikipedia, 2006)
− official language (due to British colonization)
− 80% total population - literate
− 90% total population - can speak some English
− Colonial British declared Standard English as the official language of the country and of school instruction (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− Upon declaring independence, the Belizean government decided to maintain English as the official language (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− English is used in all forms of media and business/educational communication (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− Belizean children growing up in an isolated village without electricity begin school with no English exposure (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
2. Creole
− 2nd most common language spoken(Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
− English Creole - widely spoken and remains a distinctive part of everyday conversations for most Belizeans (Government of Belize, 1999)
− derived from English language
− Kriol (Belizean Creole) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− most Belizeans - more familiar with Kriol than English (Winsor & Hansen, 1999) (Wikipedia, 2006)
− Many Belizeans speak their ethnic language at home and Creole when talking with others outside of home (Winsor & Hansen, 1999)
− Raucous and playful English-based language that contains colorful terms not usually translatable in English
− spoken by nearly everyone in Belize as either first- or second-language
− 95% total population in Belize City speak Kriol and English
− 70% total popuation - Kriol is first language
− 20% total population - speak Creole solely and not English
3. Spanish main language - still
− Spanish (Belize Tourism Board, 2006)
becoming more commonly spoken
− Spanish - also common and is taught in primary and secondary schools in order to further develop bi-lingualism (Government of Belize, 1999)
− Spanish is spoken as a mother tongue by the majority of the people in the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts, north of Belize and the Cayo District in the west, In the southern Districts: Stann Creek and Toledo, there are people whose first language is Garifuna or Maya (Government of Belize, 1999)
−
− Spanish (Wikipedia, 2006)
− “mother tongue” of Mestizo and Central American settlers
− second language for most Belizeans
− 35% total population - first or second language
− 60% total population (majority language) in Orange Walk and Corozal Districts
− "Kitchen Spanish"
− informal Spanish that incorporates English, Maya and Creole words
− Ex: "pullar"
− comes from English root "pull" and adds Spanish suffix "ar"
− English definition is "pull"
4. Garifuna (Wikipedia)
(mix of Spanish, Carib and other languages)
− About 80% of Belizeans are literate
5. Mennonites (Dutch-German)
6. Maya (Wikipedia, 2006)
– ancestors once spoke, now - no longer spoken
− Ancient Maya dialects
− Less well known
Summary
References
Wikipedia. (2006). Belize. Available: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belize. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.
Belize Tourism Board. (2006). About Belize. Available: http://www.travelbelize.org/cult.html
Bigelow, B. (no date provided). Lifestyles in Belize, Central America. Avaiable: http://www.peacecorner.org/belize_lifestyles.htm
Ambergris Caye. (2006). Belize Culture. Available:
http://www.goambergriscaye.com/cult.html
Winsor, P. J. T., Hansen, J. (1999). Coming to know as teachers: Learning together in Belize. Reading Teacher, 52 (8), 810-819. Available:
http://0-web.ebscohost.com.darius.uleth.ca/ehost/detail?vid=7&hid=108&sid=ac449271-cd67-4d9a-96cb-f54606f6d96f%40sessionmgr103
Government of Belize. (1999). About Belize. Available: http://www.belize.gov.bz/belize/national.html
U.S Department of State. (2005). Background note: Belize. Available: http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/1955.htm
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