Aruba

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.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 100,018 (July 2007 est.)

Nationality (Noun): Aruban(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Aruban; Dutch

Official Language(s): Dutch

Major Languages Spoken: Dutch, English, Papiamento, Spanish

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): none

Country Name (short form): Aruba

Country Name (local long form): none

Country Name (local short form): none

Name of Capital: Oranjestad

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC-4 (1 hour ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Aruba: Venezuela, Netherlands Antilles

Land Area: 193 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly larger than Washington, DC

Coastline: 68.5 km

National Holiday: Flag Day, 18 March (1976)

International Phone Code: 297

Currency Code: Aruban guilder/florin (AWG)

Internet Country Code: .aw

US Embassy Location: the US does not have an embassy in Aruba; the Consul General to Netherlands Antilles is accredited t

US Embassy Mailing Address: none

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