Greenland has recently made it clear that it will not entertain any notions of becoming an American territory. The island is a Danish territory, covering over 836,000 square miles, making it three times larger than Texas. About 80% of Greenland is enveloped by an extensive ice cap that affects its geography. Misleading maps have often distorted the true size of Greenland, leading some to mistakenly compare it to Africa.
Understanding Greenland’s True Size
Greenland is one of the largest islands globally, with a landmass approximately 20 times that of Denmark. In size comparison, it is also 14 times smaller than Africa. Notably, Greenland surpasses the combined area of France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom. However, it is still smaller than the contiguous United States and larger than Alaska.
Demographics of Greenland
- Population: Approximately 56,480 inhabitants.
- Average density: Among the least populated areas globally.
- Ethnicity: About 88% of the population are Inuit or of mixed Danish and Inuit descent, while 12% are of European origin, mainly Danish.
- Languages: The residents primarily speak Greenlandic and Danish.
The capital city, Nuuk, houses around a quarter of the population. This vibrant settlement features museums, cafes, and fashion boutiques, attracting visitors to experience its unique culture.
Transportation Challenges
Despite its vast area, Greenland lacks a comprehensive road or railway network connecting its towns. Each local area has its own limited roads, which end at the town’s edge. Consequently, the most common modes of transportation include:
- Boats
- Planes
- Helicopters
- Snowmobiles
- Dog sleds
This reliance on various forms of transport underlines the challenges and uniqueness of traveling across such a monumental landscape.
