Aruba

(CBS)
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.

Source: CIA World Fact Book




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