Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark located in the Arctic region. It is the world's largest island, covering an area of approximately 2.16 million square kilometers (836,300 square miles). Despite its massive size, Greenland has a relatively small population of around 56,000 people, most of whom are Inuit.
Greenland's geography is characterized by vast ice sheets and glaciers, which make up about 80% of its land area. The island is known for its stunning landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and Arctic tundra. The ice sheet covering Greenland is the second-largest ice body in the world, after Antarctica.
Due to its location within the Arctic Circle, Greenland experiences long, cold winters and relatively cool summers. The economy of Greenland primarily relies on fishing, hunting, and mineral resources such as zinc, lead, and gold. It is also known for its unique wildlife, including polar bears, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, and various bird species.
In recent years, Greenland has gained attention due to its strategic location and its vast potential for natural resources, including oil and gas reserves. However, discussions surrounding climate change and the melting of the Greenland ice sheet have also raised concerns about the environmental impact and potential consequences for the island and the global climate.
Politically, Greenland has its own parliament and government, but it is still part of the Kingdom of Denmark. In 2009, Greenland gained self-rule and assumed responsibility for several areas, such as justice, policing, and natural resource management. However, defense and foreign affairs remain under the authority of the Danish government.
Greenland on Map
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| Greenland on large map |
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| Greenland is owned by Denmark |
Greenland is a large island located in the northeastern part of North America. It is situated between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean. Here are some key details about Greenland's position on the map:
1. Geographic Location: Greenland is located in the Arctic region, specifically within the Arctic Circle. Its coordinates span approximately between 59°46'N and 83°38'N latitude, and 11°21'W and 73°08'W longitude.
2. Surrounding Countries and Bodies of Water: To the northeast of Greenland lies the Arctic Ocean, while to the southeast is the North Atlantic Ocean. The island is bordered by the Greenland Sea to the east and the Labrador Sea to the west. The closest neighboring country is Canada, specifically the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.
3. Size and Shape: Greenland is the world's largest island, covering an area of approximately 2.16 million square kilometers (836,300 square miles). Its shape is elongated, stretching from the northwest to the southeast. The island has a coastline that spans over 44,000 kilometers (27,300 miles) due to its many fjords and bays.
4. Topography: Greenland's topography is characterized by its vast ice sheet, which covers about 80% of the island. The ice sheet forms a central plateau with an average thickness of around 2,400 meters (7,900 feet). Along the coasts, there are numerous fjords and glaciers. Mountain ranges, such as the Greenlandic Alps in the southeast, contribute to the island's diverse terrain.
5. Settlements: Despite its large size, Greenland has a relatively small population. The majority of the settlements are located along the coast, taking advantage of the ice-free areas. The capital city, Nuuk, is situated on the southwest coast. Other notable settlements include Sisimiut, Ilulissat, Qaqortoq, and Tasiilaq.
When viewing Greenland on a map, its immense ice-covered landmass is striking, and the coastal areas with their fjords and mountains are easily recognizable. The island's position in the Arctic region makes it an important area of study for climate change and a unique destination for adventure and exploration.
How Denmark Conquered Greenland
Denmark owns Greenland as an autonomous territory through a historical and legal relationship. The history of Danish ownership of Greenland dates back to the 18th century when Denmark established colonial settlements on the island. In 1953, Greenland officially became an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
The legal basis for Denmark's ownership of Greenland is outlined in the Danish Constitution. Greenland is recognized as a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, granting it a significant degree of autonomy in internal affairs. The Greenlandic government has its own parliament and is responsible for managing various aspects of governance, including justice, policing, and natural resource management.
However, Denmark retains control over certain key areas, such as defense, foreign affairs, and financial assistance to Greenland. Denmark represents Greenland in international affairs and provides financial support to the territory.
In recent years, there have been discussions and negotiations between Greenland and Denmark regarding the future status and relationship between the two entities. There have been calls for increased independence for Greenland, and the Greenlandic government has expressed its desire to gradually assume full sovereignty. However, any potential changes to the relationship would require careful consideration and agreement between the governments of Greenland and Denmark.
Greenland's Government
Greenland's governance is structured under an autonomous arrangement within the Kingdom of Denmark. Here are key aspects of Greenland's governance:
1. Self-Rule: Greenland achieved self-rule in 2009, granting the territory a high degree of autonomy in internal affairs. This means that Greenland has its own parliament, known as the Inatsisartut, and government, responsible for managing various aspects of governance.
2. Parliament: The Inatsisartut serves as the legislative body of Greenland. It consists of 31 members elected by the Greenlandic people through a proportional representation system. The parliament holds the power to pass laws and make decisions on domestic matters within Greenland's jurisdiction.
3. Government: The Greenlandic government, headed by the Premier, exercises executive authority in the territory. The Premier is elected by the members of the Inatsisartut. The government is responsible for implementing laws, managing public administration, and overseeing areas such as justice, policing, and natural resource management.
4. Areas of Responsibility: With self-rule, Greenland has assumed responsibility for various sectors, including education, healthcare, culture, and economic development. The Greenlandic government has the authority to shape policies and administer these areas according to the needs and aspirations of the Greenlandic people.
5. Danish Connection: While Greenland has self-rule, certain key areas remain under the authority of the Danish government. These include defense, foreign affairs, and financial assistance. Denmark represents Greenland in international affairs and provides support to the territory.
6. Future Status: There have been ongoing discussions and negotiations between Greenland and Denmark regarding the future status and relationship between the two entities. Some Greenlandic politicians and residents have expressed aspirations for increased independence, potentially leading to full sovereignty for Greenland. However, any potential changes to the relationship would require careful consideration and agreement between the governments of Greenland and Denmark.
It is important to note that the governance system in Greenland continues to evolve, with discussions and debates shaping the future direction of the territory's autonomy and relationship with Denmark.
Greenland's Natural Resources
Greenland is known for its abundant natural resources, which have the potential to contribute to its economic development. Some of the notable natural resources found in Greenland include:
1. Minerals: Greenland has significant deposits of various minerals, including rare earth elements, uranium, zinc, lead, iron ore, gold, diamonds, and gemstones. These mineral resources have attracted interest from mining companies and potential investors.
2. Oil and Gas: Greenland is believed to have substantial offshore oil and gas reserves in its waters. Exploration and drilling activities have taken place in certain areas, although commercial production has not yet commenced. The potential for oil and gas extraction has implications for Greenland's economy and energy sector.
3. Fisheries: The waters surrounding Greenland are rich in fish and other marine resources. Fishing is a vital industry for the territory, with species like cod, shrimp, halibut, and Arctic char being commercially important. Greenland's fishing industry plays a significant role in its economy and exports.
4. Hydroelectric Power: Greenland has numerous rivers and glacial meltwater that offer the potential for hydroelectric power generation. Utilizing this renewable energy source can help reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and contribute to Greenland's sustainable development.
5. Renewable Energy: Besides hydroelectric power, Greenland has considerable potential for other forms of renewable energy, such as wind and solar power. Expanding the use of renewable energy sources aligns with efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
It's important to note that the extraction and development of these resources in Greenland must be approached with careful consideration of environmental impacts, indigenous rights, and sustainable practices. The government of Greenland has been actively involved in determining the balance between resource exploitation and environmental protection.
