often attributed to Dutch horticulturists. They supposedly cultivated this variant as  

a tribute to William of Orange,a key leader  in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule,  

and seen as the founding father of the nation.  although the validity of this tale is debated. 

John Stolarczyk, curator of the  World Carrot Museum, asserts that  

while the orange carrot's development  coincides with this historical period,  

there's no proof linking its  cultivation to the royal tribute. 

Instead, its prevalence can be attributed  to agricultural reasons. Orange carrots  

thrived exceptionally well in the Dutch  climate, outperforming their purple  

and yellow counterparts. They offered more yield,  

and were more stable, uniform, and reliable,  making them a preferred choice for farmers. 

The Dutch, being major agricultural influencers  in 16th-century Europe, propagated these carrots  

in large quantities. Their efficiency in  cultivating this variant led to its spread  

and eventual popularity across Europe. While the association between orange  

carrots and the Dutch royal family makes for  a compelling narrative, it's the practical  

agricultural benefits of the orange variety  that truly drove its widespread acceptance.