This History of Aruba

Aruba’s history stretches from ancient Indigenous settlements to a multicultural Caribbean country known today as One Happy Island. Shaped by centuries of exploration, colonial rule, economic change, and cultural exchange, Aruba is now an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Since gaining Status Aparte in 1986, the island governs its internal affairs while recognizing the Dutch monarch as head of state.

Early History: The Caquetio and Indigenous Roots

Long before European explorers arrived, Aruba was inhabited by the Caquetio Indians, part of the Arawak family who migrated from South America. These early settlers lived from fishing, hunting, and small-scale agriculture, cultivating crops such as corn and yucca.

Evidence of their presence can still be seen today at several archaeological and natural sites across the island, including:

• Fontein Cave
• Quadirikiri Cave
• Ayo Rock Formation
• Casibari Rock Formation

Ancient rock drawings, cave paintings, and artifacts found at these locations offer insight into Aruba’s earliest inhabitants and their way of life.

Spanish Arrival and Early Colonization (1499–1636)

In 1499, Spanish explorer Alonso de Ojeda arrived in Aruba and claimed the island for Spain. Because Aruba lacked large gold deposits and fertile land for plantation agriculture, the Spanish considered it of limited value. Many Indigenous Caquetio inhabitants were deported to Hispaniola to work as laborers, although some later returned.
During the Spanish period, Aruba was mainly used for cattle ranching and remained sparsely populated.

Dutch Rule and Colonial Influence (1636–1800s)

In 1636, Aruba came under Dutch control when the Dutch West India Company took over the island as part of its Caribbean strategy. Aruba remained under Dutch rule for centuries, with the exception of a brief British occupation between 1806 and 1816 during the Napoleonic Wars.
Unlike Curaçao, Aruba did not develop into a major trading port, but it remained strategically important within the Dutch Caribbean territories.

Economic Development: Gold, Aloe, and Oil

Aruba’s economy evolved through several distinct phases over time:

• Gold mining began in 1824, particularly around Bushiribana, bringing temporary economic growth
• Aloe vera cultivation, introduced in the 1840s, became one of Aruba’s most successful exports, making the island a leading global aloe producer
• Oil refining transformed Aruba in the 20th century with the construction of a major refinery in San Nicolas

Each phase left a lasting mark on the island’s development and identity.

20th Century: Oil Refinery and Immigration

The establishment of the oil refinery in the 1920s modernized Aruba and became the backbone of its economy for decades. The refinery attracted workers from across the Caribbean, Latin America, Europe, and beyond, leading to rapid population growth and cultural diversification.

This period shaped Aruba’s infrastructure, urban development, and multicultural society, laying the foundation for the island’s modern character.

Status Aparte and Modern Aruba

In 1986, Aruba achieved Status Aparte, officially separating from the Netherlands Antilles and becoming an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The movement was led by Betico Croes, a central figure in Aruba’s political history. Although full independence was initially planned, it was later postponed indefinitely.

Following the closure of the oil refinery in the 1980s, Aruba shifted its economic focus toward tourism. Today, tourism is one of the island’s main pillars, supported by Aruba’s political stability, safety, natural beauty, and welcoming hospitality.

A Multicultural Legacy

Today, Aruba is home to people from more than 100 nationalities, creating a diverse and vibrant cultural mosaic. This diversity is reflected in daily life through:

• Official languages: Papiamento and Dutch
• Widely spoken languages: English and Spanish
• A blend of Caribbean, European, Latin American, and African influences

Aruba’s rich history - Indigenous Caquetio roots, Dutch colonial influence, centuries of migration, and a blend of Caribbean, European, and Latin American cultures - shapes the warm, welcoming spirit visitors experience today.

To explore Aruba’s past in a quick and visual way, you can also watch our Aruba History Video.