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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