Balize

Balize, or Belize, the capital of British Honduras in Central America (lat. 17° 29' N., long. 38° 8' W.), stands on the S. bank of the river of that name, and close to its mouth. It was first colonised by the English towards the end of the 17th century. The colony was twice broken up by the Spaniards, but by the treaty of 1783 its possession was confirmed to England. The neighbourhood is low and swampy, and the climate unhealthy, but a large trade is carried on in mahogany, rosewood, cedar, logwood, and other valuable timber. Though somewhat dangerous, the harbour is a regular station for the West Indian mail steamers.