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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.
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Country
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Surface Area: 193 square km
Population: 71,218 (July 2004 est.)
Located in: Central America (Caribbean)
Capital City: Oranjestad
Head of State: Queen BEATRIX of the Netherlands, represented by Governor General Olindo KOOLMAN
Prime Minister: Nelson O. ODUBER
Independent since: none (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
Currency: Aruban guilder/florin (AWG)
Flag (image): 
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