Greenland and Denmark
Greenland and Denmark are two countries that are often associated with each other due to their historical and political connections. While they share a sovereign state, Greenland is considered an autonomous territory of Denmark. However, the question remains: why is Greenland considered the biggest island rather than Denmark despite being part of the same country?
Geographic Location of Greenland and Denmark
Greenland is located in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean, east of Canada and west of Iceland. It is the largest island in the world with an area of approximately 2,166,086 km². Denmark, on the other hand, is located in northern Europe, bordered by Germany to the south and Norway to the north. It has a land area of approximately 42,951 km². Despite sharing a sovereign state, the two countries are separated by a considerable geographical distance.
Size Comparison between Greenland and Denmark
The size comparison between Greenland and Denmark is significant. Greenland’s land area is approximately 50 times that of Denmark. In fact, Greenland is the world’s largest island, while Denmark is the 130th-largest country in the world. The sheer size of Greenland is reason enough to consider it an island rather than a mainland territory.
What is an Island?
An island is a landmass that is surrounded by water. It can be of any size and can either be located in an ocean, sea, lake, or river. Islands can be formed by volcanic activity, tectonic plates, or they can be created by the erosion of land over time.
Criteria for Defining an Island
The criteria for defining an island is often subject to debate. However, according to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, an island is a naturally formed area of land, surrounded by water, which is above water at high tide. The criteria also state that the land area must be big enough to support human habitation or economic activities.
Greenland’s landmass and coastline
Greenland’s landmass is dominated by ice and glaciers, covering approximately 80% of its surface. Its coastline is characterized by fjords, cliffs, and rocky terrain. Greenland’s interior is mostly uninhabitable due to its harsh climate and the presence of ice. The majority of the population is concentrated along the coast, where it is possible to engage in fishing and other economic activities.
Denmark’s landmass and coastline
Denmark’s landmass is mainly composed of flat and fertile land, with a few hilly areas. Its coastline is characterized by sandy beaches and cliffs. Denmark’s population is mostly concentrated in the eastern part of the country, where the land is more suitable for agriculture and urbanization.
Why Greenland is considered an island
Greenland is considered an island because it meets the criteria for defining an island. It is a naturally formed area of land surrounded by water, and its land area is big enough to support human habitation and economic activities. Additionally, Greenland’s isolation from other landmasses and its distance from Denmark also support its classification as an island.
The Greenlandic Inuit and their culture
The Greenlandic Inuit are the indigenous people of Greenland. They have a distinct culture that is characterized by their adaptation to the harsh Arctic environment. The Inuit rely heavily on hunting and fishing for their subsistence and have a deep connection to their land and environment.
The Danish colonization of Greenland
Denmark colonized Greenland in the eighteenth century and continued to do so until the mid-twentieth century. The colonization had a significant impact on the Inuit population and their culture. The Danes introduced Christianity, education, and modern technology to Greenland, but also disrupted the Inuit’s traditional way of life.
The current relationship between Greenland and Denmark
Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, with its own government and parliament. While it remains a part of the Danish realm, Greenland has a considerable degree of self-governance and has been granted greater autonomy over its resources and affairs.
Conclusion: Greenland’s significance as the largest island
Greenland’s significance as the world’s largest island cannot be overstated. Its unique geography, climate, and environment have shaped its history and culture. Today, Greenland remains an important source of natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals, while also serving as a model for sustainable development and climate action. Despite its remote location and harsh climate, Greenland’s significance as an island is undeniable.
