Empire 265. Danish Greenland: Eradicating Inuit Culture (Ep 3)
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Jun 18, 2025 Delve into the dark history of Danish colonialism in Greenland, where capitalism and religion intertwined to erase Inuit culture. Discover the struggles Greenlanders faced in their fight for self-determination amidst royal monopolies. Explore secret negotiations that caught the attention of the U.S. and the complexities of governance during World War II. Hear poignant tales of Inuit communities grappling with the legacy of forced assimilation and cultural disconnection, while addressing contemporary challenges like climate change.
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Hans Egede's Dual Motive
- Hans Egede mixed mission and capitalism by creating a private colonial trading company in Greenland.
- He aimed to convert settlers and make profits simultaneously, using Bible and share certificates.
Royal Monopoly's Economic Control
- The Danish royal monopoly controlled all Greenland trade until the 1950s, forcing Inuit to sell only to it.
- This monopoly depressed the value of Indigenous goods and limited Inuit economic freedom.
Colonial Control via Racial Laws
- Danish colonial laws enforced racial hierarchies, restricting Greenlanders' marriage and controlling their lives.
- Inuit were economically confined as resource gatherers for the trading corporation, with no autonomy.
