Aruba Past and Present

A rich past has led to a prosperous present on the peaceful island of Aruba

A'Peace' of History
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Visitors to Aruba will be struck by the island's peace and tranquility. The laid-back atmosphere that contributes to vacationers' relaxation and accounts for the island's wide popularity has prevailed throughout Aruba's history.

In fact, European colonizers barely touched the island, deterred by its desert and unaware of the riches it possessed. Thus, when the Dutch gained control of the island from the Spanish, it was a peaceful takeover. The British also occupied the island for about a decade. However, in the end, the island's inhabitants created a distinctly Aruban culture. They struggled through economic hardships after the gold rush and oil boom, and now tourism is the main source of Aruba's income. Through it all, the Aruban spirit has remained calm, and now offers travelers a warm welcome.

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