Aruba
Introduction
)
Aruba Flag
Introduction
Geography
People
Government
Economy
Communications
Transportation
Military
Transnational Issues
|
| Introduction | Aruba |
|
Background:
|
Discovered and claimed for Spain in 1499, Aruba was acquired by the Dutch in 1636. The island's economy has been dominated by three main industries. A 19th century gold rush was followed by prosperity brought on by the opening in 1924 of an oil refinery. The last decades of the 20th century saw a boom in the tourism industry. Aruba seceded from the Netherlands Antilles in 1986 and became a separate, autonomous member of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Movement toward full independence was halted at Aruba's request in 1990. |
| Home | | Country List | | Privacy Policy |