Dan Snow's History Hit A history of (American) occupation in Greenland
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Jan 8, 2026 Historian Robert Rix from the University of Copenhagen, an expert in Greenlandic history, discusses the complex narrative of Greenland's occupation. He delves into the history from Norse settlements under Erik the Red to the modern American military presence. Rix highlights multiple U.S. attempts to acquire Greenland, the impact of WWII, and the strategic significance of the territory for NATO. Their conversation raises questions about Denmark's authority and the evolving quest for Greenlandic self-rule and independence.
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Greenland's Strategic Importance Is Longstanding
- Greenland has long been geopolitically valuable because of its size, Arctic location, and emerging resource access as ice melts.
- Historical interest from multiple powers shows current disputes echo centuries of strategic competition.
Erik The Red's Exile Founded Greenland's Norse Colony
- Erik the Red was banished from Iceland and used promotional spin to attract settlers to Greenland in 986.
- His exile-driven settlement launched the Norse presence that later tied Greenland to Norway and Denmark.
Medieval Union Explains Denmark's Claim
- The Kalmar Union transferred Norwegian overseas colonies to Denmark, creating Denmark's long legal claim over Greenland.
- That medieval political shift explains why Denmark still governs Greenland today.
