Belize Orange Walk History: A Tale of Struggle and Triumph
The history of Orange Walk in Belize is a long and complex one, filled with stories of struggle and triumph. Located in the north of the country, Orange Walk is the second largest district in Belize, covering an area of 6,813 square kilometers. It is bordered to the north by Mexico, to the east by Corozal, to the south by Belize City, and to the west by the Caribbean Sea.
The earliest inhabitants of the area were the Maya, who had settled in the region as early as 1000 BC. They were followed by the Mestizos in the 1700s, who were of mixed Spanish and Maya descent. The Mestizos were the first to name the area “Orange Walk” after the abundance of orange trees that grew in the area.
In 1847, the British colonized the area and began to settle it. They brought with them the sugar industry, which quickly became the main source of income for the people of Orange Walk. This industry flourished until the 1950s when the government of Belize began to focus on diversifying its economy.
Despite the difficulties of the sugar industry, the people of Orange Walk continued to thrive and develop the area. They began to build roads, schools, and churches. They also developed a strong sense of community and established a vibrant culture.
In the late 1800s, Orange Walk became a major center for the production of chicle, a natural gum used in the production of chewing gum. Chicle was harvested from the sapodilla tree, which was abundant in the area. This industry also helped to bring more economic development to the region.
In the late 20th century, Orange Walk became a major center for the production of citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits. This industry has helped to further develop the economy of the region and has made it one of the most productive areas in Belize.
Today, Orange Walk is a vibrant and diverse region with a strong sense of community. It is home to a variety of cultures and has a rich history. The people of Orange Walk are proud of their heritage and continue to work to ensure that their culture and traditions remain alive.