Before the 17th century, almost all cultivated carrots were purple or white. The orange carrot we see in supermarkets today was popularized by Dutch growers. A popular (though debated) legend suggests that Dutch farmers bred orange carrots as a tribute to William of Orange and the House of Orange during the Dutch struggle for independence. Regardless of the political motive, Dutch breeders were instrumental in selecting for the orange mutant varieties because they were sweeter and less woody than their purple ancestors. This variety, rich in beta-carotene (which the body converts to Vitamin A), eventually became the global standard. Today, 'heirloom' purple and yellow carrots are making a comeback in everyday cooking.