Greenland

Greenland, the world's largest island, is about 81% ice-capped. Vikings reached the island in the 10th century from Iceland; Danish colonization began in the 18th century, and Greenland was made an integral part of Denmark in 1953. It joined the European Community (now the EU) with Denmark in 1973, but withdrew in 1985 over a dispute centered on stringent fishing quotas. Greenland was granted self-government in 1979 by the Danish parliament; the law went into effect the following year. Denmark continues to exercise control of Greenland's foreign affairs in consultation with Greenland's Home Rule Government.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 56,344 (July 2007 est.)

Nationality (Noun): Greenlander(s)

Nationality (Adjective): Greenlandic

Official Language(s): Greenlandic

Major Languages Spoken: Danish, English, Greenlandic

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): None

Country Name (short form): Greenland

Country Name (local long form): None

Country Name (local short form): Kalaallit Nunaat

Name of Capital: Nuuk (Godthab)

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC-3 (2 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering Greenland: Canada, Iceland

Land Area: 2166086 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly more than three times the size of Texas

Coastline: 44,087 km

National Holiday: June 21 (longest day)

International Phone Code: 299

Currency Code: Danish krone (DKK)

Internet Country Code: .gl

US Embassy Location: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)

US Embassy Mailing Address: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)