Trespassers Forgiven

Within three decades of the end of the Second World War, the British Empire had been dismantled leaving only a few residual spots of red on the world map. This was the age of decolonisation and Independence. "Trespassers Forgiven" offers a personal glimpse into the history of British Honduras (Belize) at this crucial period in British history. C.H. Godden examines the long road Belize travelled to eventual independence in 1981 after more than a century as a British colony. He demonstrates the very real difficulties the new government faced and how the country's progression to independence was considerably delayed by Guatemala's territorial claim and the many international complications and obstacles that followed in its wake. Drawing on the author's personal experiences at the Colonial Office in the region at this decisive time, "Trespassers Forgiven" illuminates the colony's unique history and draws attention to the neglected and almost forgotten story of Britain's involvement in Central America.

Charles H. Godden led a long and interesting career in the Colonial Office and HM Diplomatic Service, beginning in 1950 following his military service in the Second World War. During that time he served abroad in Belize (formerly British Honduras) twice. He was also Secretary to a United Nations Mission to the High Commission Territories of Southern Africa, Private Secretary to FCO Ministers of State and held positions in Finland, Jamaica, Haiti and Anguilla, from which territory he retired as Governor in 1984. He was made CBE in 1981.