The Battle of St. George's Caye was a pivotal military engagement that saw British Honduras, known today as Belize, fend off an attempted Spanish invasion in 1798. During this period, tensions between Britain and Spain had escalated, particularly in regions such as Central America, where both empires had interests. The strategic location of St. George's Caye, an island off the coast of Belize, made it an ideal target for Spanish forces seeking to reclaim control over the area. In early September, a sizable Spanish fleet set sail with the intention of capturing the British-held territory.

British settlers, numbering about 1,200 and primarily made up of logwood cutters and loyalists, prepared for the impending assault. Under the command of Colonel Edward Despard, they organized a defense that combined both naval and ground strategies. The British forces, although outnumbered, utilized smaller but more maneuverable vessels, which engaged the larger Spanish ships in the shallow waters surrounding the caye. The skirmish began on September 10, lasting throughout the day, as British forces demonstrated remarkable naval skill and determination.

The battle unfolded with intense fighting, characterized by cannon fire and small boat engagements. The decisive moment came when the British fleet outmaneuvered the Spanish ships, effectively disrupting their plans and forcing a retreat. The victory solidified British control over the region and marked a crucial moment in the rivalry between the two colonial powers, highlighting the resilience of the British settlers in defending their home.