To commemorate International Museum Day, the San Pedro House of Culture (SPHC) hosted an exhibition at San Pedro High School’s Auditorium on Thursday, May 18th. Under the countrywide theme: ‘Saying the Unspeakable in Museums’, Director Mito Paz focused on the Caste War of Yucatán 1849-1901.
SPHS students were lectured on the significance of the war, and were guided through displayed historic photographs of Maya leaders, Yucatán armies, Spaniards, army generals, Cults of the Talking Cross, churches, music evolution, and living survivors.
Paz explained that the Caste War had a profound influence on the history of Ambergris Caye, Corozal, and Orange Walk. The War changed the dynamic of Belize, where an influx of Yucatec refugees brought their customs and traditions to Northern Belize. Today, many of these customs are still being practiced.
Paz shared why learning about the Caste War is important. “People really need to know their history. Like Marcus Garvey said, a person without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots. When the Spaniards conquered the Yucatan, the Maya always revolted against them. But this is rarely taught. You hear about the Battle of St. George’s Caye, but no one died. Over 250,000 perished during the Caste War. This was the longest, and bloodiest war of Belize,” said Paz.
The exhibition was a success, and the SPHC thanks all students and teachers who took time out to learn about their history. 
The San Pedro House of Culture is located on Angel Coral Street, and can be contacted at 226-5100.
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