History

Aruba’s rich, multicultural past is reflected in our cuisine, architecture and warm, friendly people. What began as a fishing outpost for Amerindians has changed hands between the Spanish and Dutch throughout the centuries, and is now a diverse constituent country of the Netherlands.

Historical Aruba

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Our Flag

Aruba’s flag was officially adopted on March 18, 1976, along with the official anthem "Aruba Dushi Tera." The blue represents the sea that surrounds Aruba; yellow is the color of abundance; red is for love; and white is for our pristine beaches. 

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The Amerindians

The Caquetio Indians of the Arawak tribe from the South American mainland were Aruba's first inhabitants. They were fisherman and hunters and gatherers who depended on the sea for survival.

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Spanish Rule

When explorer Alonso de Ojeda discovered Aruba in 1499, he claimed it for Spain, naming it “la isla de los gigantes,” or “the island of giants” after our tall inhabitants.

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Dutch Rule

Aruba’s strategic location caught the eye of the Dutch who occupied our island in 1636 to protect their salt supply from the mainland and establish a naval base during their 80-year war with Spain.

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