So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump

by Elizabeth Buchanan

An indispensable guide to Greenland—why it matters, who covets it and why this wilderness of 56,000 inhabitants could become the next global flashpoint.

Greenland is no ordinary island. From its discovery by Norsemen to its contemporary strategic significance, it has been a frontier for human exploration and empire, today emerging as a facilitator of geoeconomic competition. This book delves into the rich history and complex politics of Greenland, revealing how this icy expanse has shaped—and been shaped by—the world. 

This short history begins with the Vikings, whose mysterious disappearance from Greenland in the 1400s remains one of history’s great puzzles. It then explores the island’s gradual transformation from a Danish possession to an autonomous territory, charting its role during the World Wars and its strategic importance during the Cold War.

Greenland finds itself at the centre of a renewed ‘great game’, balancing transatlantic ties, rising Chinese influence, and mounting domestic pressures for independence. And that’s before President Trump’s agenda is factored in.

Starting from Trump’s plan to purchase Greenland, Elizabeth Buchanan dissects the island’s contemporary role and poses four provocative scenarios for its future—from full independence to an icy geopolitical standoff with Denmark. So You Want to Own Greenland? is an essential read for anyone curious about the future of this frozen frontier and its place on the global stage.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Politics, Geography, American History, Economics, Military Fiction

208 pages, Paperback

Published September 16, 2025

Reviews

[Ron Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

My wife’s school district contains about three times the population of Greenland. At the moment, only one of them is being openly threatened by Donald Trump.

How the fate of a remote community of 57,000 people could spark fears of NATO’s collapse is one of the strangest developments in this already awful year.

World leaders were still sputtering over the recent U.S. errand in Venezuela when Stephen Miller, the White House adviser in charge of 1930s nostalgia, told CNN’s Jake Tapper, “Nobody’s going to fight the United States militarily over the future of Greenland.”

“We live in a world, in the real world, Jake, that is governed by strength, that is governed by force, that is governed by power.”

Or, as Orwell puts it in “1984,” “If you want a picture of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face — forever.”

This week, a flock of op-eds has descended on Greenland like Arctic puffins reclaiming their cliffs. But Elizabeth Buchanan was there long before them. Last fall she published an engaging blend of history and modern-day political analysis with the cheeky title: “So You Want to Own Greenland?”

“The change under way in the Arctic is going to be century-defining,” she writes. “Beyond the redrawing of global trade corridors, or the carving up of resources for humanity’s next millennium, the Arctic is hosting an extinction-level event in respect of the post-war global order.”

The co-founder of a polar security program at West Point, Buchanan doesn’t sound like an academic. Determined to explain complex issues to lay readers — she notes that her parents didn’t go to college — she approaches the Greenland question with a hard line of Realpolitik and a surprising dash of humor.

Her book offers a survey of the giant island’s geography and its native peoples: No, it’s not empty, nor is it the grotesquely distorted mass our Mercator maps show. Her concise history runs through attempts to own Greenland, starting with the Vikings, whose mysterious disappearance may be a modern-day warning.

In a chapter slick with James Bond intrigue, she reminds us that during the Cold War, the U.S. built Camp Century, a nuclear-powered city beneath the ice with miles of tunnels, a hospital, a chapel and hot showers. Project Iceworm, meanwhile, involved an audacious scheme to hide hundreds of nuclear missiles without telling....

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[Manybooks · Rating 3 out of 5]

Australian polar geopolitics expert Elizabeth Buchanan with her September 2025 So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump provides a generally insightful and educational examination of what has made and continues to make Greenland (which of course is the world's largest island and is at least for now still around eighty percent permanent ice sheet) such a desirable but also such a difficult to keep and to maintain landmass, that situated right between Eurasia and North America and with massive still unexploited stores of natural resources (and in particular so-called rare earth minerals), this, as well as Greenland's mentioned above strategic location have often been and are even now a major source of global political strife and conflict.

And in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump, from the arrival of Erik the Red (and the Vikings) in Greenland in AD 985 through the often horrid and harrowingly exploitative colonial relationship with the Kingdom of Denmark (and especially regarding the native Inuit population of Greenland and which Buchanan depicts in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump unflinchingly and without making any annoying and frustrating Euro-centric excuses) to US President Donald Trump’s recent and ever more covetous, ever more categorically demanding desire to own and to exploit mineral-rich (and important for Trump's expansionist dreams in the Arctic) Greenland, Elizabeth Buchanan enlighteningly and readably (as well as occasionally quite wittily) analyses and explains in and with So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump why Greenland has always been such an important and enticing lure to those who believed they could tame and also exploit this gigantic frozen island with its vast underground riches.

Now albeit I have generally enjoyed reading So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump (and have also learned quite a lot from and through Elizabeth Buchanan's featured text), I must admit that I do not really believe it when she, when Buchanan claims in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump that she is not really involved here, that she has no personal stakes, desires and even no investments here (in Greenland). For as the co-founder of the polar warfare program at West Point's Modern War Institute, Dr. Buchanan's professional reputation would (for me, from where I am standing) certainly be seriously augmented and equally be hugely glorified if in the event of conflict, those very plans were to be picked up and used by the Pentagon.

Furthermore, Elizabeth Buchanan's views in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump are also decidedly pro war and also pretty much sympathetic to Donald Trump’s designs on the icy landmass. But no, no, no, with Trump's recent and continuous annexation threats against Canada, I do find what Donald Trump (and the USA) are saying about and wanting with Greenland pretty intolerable and inexcusable and that Buchanan in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump seemingly accepts, welcomes and condones this (even if not quite as gratingly vociferously and all as all-encompassingly as Trump and his spokespersons), this is rather a bit personally infuriating (because in my own and not so humble opinion, Greenland should either be totally independent or it should with its shared Inuit culture and languages be linked and allied with Arctic Canada and NOT with the United States, however, just to make it clear, I also and certainly do not at all think that Greenland should be absorbed into and become part of Canada).

Yes, Elizabeth Buchanan's the American way is seemingly always better attitude in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump is or at least can get more than a trifle grating. I mean why are the seal oil lamps that were traditionally used by the Inuit in Greenland automatically inferior to kerosene and why is everything "American" far too often kind of depicted as being the greatest thing since sliced bread so to speak in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump? And considering that material progress is often a familiar justification deployed by occupying, by colonising powers, how accommodative Buchanan is to Donald Trump and to the USA regarding their clearly exploitative economic and mostly military designs on Greenland leaves me shaking my head somewhat angrily and frustratingly, even if I also hugely agree with Elizabeth Buchanan's critical eye in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump regarding the Vikings' and the Kingdom of Denmark's presence in Greenland (and that Denmark's hypocrisy of on the one hand promoting the right of Greenland to be independent while at the same times often deliberately stalling is hugely problematic). But indeed and for me, Buchanan asserting in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump that if Greenland became independent, followed by the Faroe Islands, the Kingdom of Denmark would actually simply cease to exist is wrong, is just totally silly, and well, that her totally anti Denmark and even rather majorly anti Europe attitude and stance are pretty one-sidedly horrible and equally also makes Elizabeth Buchanan sound (at least for me and in my opinion) far too much, far too often like a decidedly Donald Trump style American Republicanism and expansionist apologist and tool.

Moreover and just to point out that considering how Denmark and as such also Greenland have some of the most liberal, most supportive and most tolerant LGBTQ and transgender legislation and rights on earth, that in Greenland all healthcare is free, sorry, but after what has been happening in the USA with the current administration in 2025 totally trouncing human rights, diversity and sexual and gender freedom, with Republican politicians and in particular Donald Trump, J.D. Vance, Pete Hesgeth, top military honchos, industrialists etc. obviously hugely hugely intent on owning and perhaps even annexing Greenland, well, if this actually occurred, it could also likely mean that these rights along with the right to protest against Trump and company might very rapidly disappear or at least seriously and severely be lessened in Greenland and for ALL citizens and residents (which I think is something that Buchanan should be at least be considering and acknowledging in So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump but sadly totally ignores, since for Elizabeth Buchanan in my opinion, the USA under Trump becoming increasingly dictatorial, somehow totally seems to be a non-issue and that Greenland becoming increasingly American or even wholly American would automatically somehow mean protection and safeguarding human rights abuses etc. from China and from Russia, that for Buchanan they are the main and total villains and the USA is somehow shiningly positive and democratic, which in 2025 is simply for and to me absolutely no longer the case by any stretch of the, of my imagination).

Thus while much of Elizabeth Buchanan’s narrative for So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump is interesting, has certainly been educational and also performs a genuine and essential service drawing the reader's attention to the fact that many non-Arctic states, among them China and members of the European Union are jostling for a bigger stake in the future of the circumpolar zone and where not that many of their citizens actually live, I have to admit and point out that I equally and certainly do NOT consider the United States really an Arctic nation anyhow, as for me, Alaska does not really count all that much and is certainly much closer ethnically and linguistically to Northern Canada, Siberia and the northern reaches of Scandinavia than to the continental United States and vice versa. And not to mention that I also find it rather academically frustrating and supplemental research and reading unfriendly how Buchanan provides no index for So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump and while there are endnotes, there are no lists of websites and books for further reading, that for me, So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump should not only provide the appreciated notes I have mentioned but also have a separate and user friendly bibliography (so yes, that my three star rating for So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump is probably a wee bit generous on my part, but that what I have enjoyed and appreciated regarding Elizabeth Buchanan's text for So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump does mildly but surely and strongly, decently enough outweigh what I have found problematic, what has textually made me groan).

[Ivonne Rovira · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know very, very little about Greenland, and I still probably know more than 99 percent of Americans. (Hey, at least I’ve read Smilla's Sense of Snow and watched the Q’s Greenland YouTube channel!) This traces the various — invasions is too strong a word, so let’s go with encounters — in Greenland, dating back to Erik the Red’s arrival in Greenland in A.D. 984 after fleeing a murder charge. The island’s population remains tiny, 57,000, most of whom live on the southern edge, but its natural resources might be very big, attracting unwanted attention. Author Elizabeth Buchanan relates the history and the political intrigue with the right amount of snark to make it fun.

In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Melville House Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

[Kara Babcock · Rating 1 out of 5]

Just because you’re an expert doesn’t mean you can write a popular political science book…. That, unfortunately, is the lesson I take away from So You Want to Own Greenland?: Lessons from the Vikings to Trump. Elizabeth Buchanan is nominally an expert in polar geopolitics. However, her book about the contentious history of Greenland’s settlement and sovereignty is anything but interesting. I received an eARC from NetGalley and publisher Melville House in exchange for a review.

Reader, this book is boring. It shouldn’t be; Buchanan makes a concerted effort to write in a conversational style with a tone that is outright sarcastic at times. She takes potshots at everyone from the Americans (she really wants you to know she isn’t one) to the Danes to the Vikings. I admit to finding her description of Erik the Red as “Ed Sheeran’s head, with a lush siren-red full beard, atop André the Giant’s body” somewhat humorous. However, this sense of humour is detrimental at times to a serious analysis of Greenland’s history and politics. For example, not a few pages later, Buchanan handwaves away Erik the Red’s death:

Not so much for Erik. Erik the Red died in about AD 1003, from something unbefitting a man of his stature or reputation—he simply fell off a horse. Or caught a virus from new Viking settlers. Both stories feature in the history books.

Wikipedia gives me a better summary than this. For a book from someone with a PhD, I’d expect slightly more in-depth research.

Now, maybe I’m being too harsh—Buchanan’s PhD is in Russian Arctic strategy, so maybe Norse history is a bit too much of a stretch. Cool, cool. But even once we get closer to the modern era, this book is sorely lacking rigour. Buchanan passes off a lot of personal opinion as if it’s a foregone conclusion—and while I am willing to grant she knows more about this area than me, I’d like to see more actual analysis instead of just “take me word for it.” There are endnotes, but most of them point to government documents and news reports, not academic articles about these topics.

In short, despite its author’s pedigree, this book doesn’t seem soundly researched or presented to me. And yet, when Buchanan digs in and actually tries to do analysis, that conversational tone runs up against her penchant for detail and jargon. For example, she breaks down the report of a commission about Greenlandic independence section by section in stultifying detail that is at odds with the summarizing, wise-cracking approach at the start of the book.

Indeed, one wonders what the original publication schedule of this book was and whether it might not have been pushed up to capitalize on Trump’s “buying Greenland” malarkey from March of this year. Obviously this book was in the works prior to that, with its subtitle getting a glow-up. I won’t lie—Trump’s comments were why the title of this book caught my eye when I was browsing NetGalley. At the same time, Buchanan has a point: Trump or not, Greenland is clearly an important place in the next fifty years of Arctic interactions.

Alas, if like me you came looking for something that would fill you in on Greenlandic history and politics, you might be disappointed. I mean, this book kind of does that. But I derived zero enjoyment from reading it and found it pretty boring—if you were looking for a book to convince you that reading about geopolitics can be fun, this isn’t it.

Originally posted on Kara.Reviews.

[Jos · Rating 2 out of 5]

Óf de geopolitieke situatie rond Groenland is erg gecompliceerd, óf het boek is een chaotisch geheel van grappig bedoelde populair-wetenschappelijke informatie over de geschiedenis van Groenland vermengd met saaie analyses van ingewikkelde, bijna onbegrijpelijke internationale verdragen óf mijn beheersing van de Engelse taal schiet tekort. Óf een combinatie daarvan.

[Steve · Rating 3 out of 5]

The publisher no doubt saw a sales opportunity in Trump's lunatic ravings on Greenland, but the credibility of the information and analysis was undermined by the author's ever-present snarky, smart-aleckey tone.

[Ance Zveja · Rating 4 out of 5]

A much-needed basic historical and political context for this weird moment in time we live in.

[GONZA · Rating 3 out of 5]

Non avendo io una grande passione per le scienze politiche, mi sono un po' annoiata durante tutta la spiegazione della storia della Groenlandia, soprattutto perché passata di trattato in trattato. La parte migliore resta secondo me quella finale, con i possibili scenari che seguono la situazione attuale, anche se forse il piú probabile é quello che l'autrice scrive all'inizio, per scherzo.

[Porzia · Rating 2 out of 5]

A dash of the pen.

[Holland · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the most I’ve ever thought about Greenland

[Jung]

In "So You Want to Own Greenland?" the book explores how a vast and seemingly remote island has repeatedly captured the attention of powerful nations throughout history. Despite its harsh environment and small population, Greenland holds immense strategic, political, and symbolic value. The narrative challenges the idea that it is simply a passive territory waiting to be controlled, instead presenting it as a complex and evolving player in global affairs. By tracing its history from early exploration to modern geopolitical tensions, the book reveals how geography, climate, and human ambition intersect in shaping Greenland’s role in the world. It ultimately shows that control over Greenland has never been straightforward and that its future will depend as much on its people as on external powers.

The story begins with Greenland’s early history, highlighting how its size and location have always made it significant. Norse settlers arrived centuries ago, drawn by opportunity and encouraged by optimistic portrayals of the land. These early communities managed to survive for generations in an unforgiving environment, building a fragile connection to Europe through trade. Over time, however, changing economic conditions and environmental pressures weakened their position, leading to their eventual disappearance. This early chapter of Greenland’s history demonstrates how survival on the island has always depended on adaptability and external connections. Later, Danish involvement established a more lasting political relationship, beginning with missionary efforts and evolving into formal governance. Although Greenland eventually gained increasing levels of autonomy, it has remained tied to Denmark, creating an ongoing balance between self-rule and external authority.

The book also highlights the deep historical presence of Inuit populations, whose cultures developed long before European arrival and were uniquely adapted to Arctic conditions. Their resilience and knowledge of the environment stand in contrast to the challenges faced by outsiders attempting to establish control. At the same time, the relationship between Greenland and Denmark has not been without tension. Policies imposed during the twentieth century, including controversial social programs, have left lasting impacts on Greenlandic society. Efforts to expand self-government reflect a desire for greater control over domestic affairs, yet economic dependence continues to complicate the path toward full independence. This tension between autonomy and reliance is a recurring theme throughout Greenland’s modern history.

Greenland’s strategic importance became especially clear during major global conflicts. During the Second World War, its location made it critical for military operations and logistics, leading to increased involvement from the United States. This presence continued into the Cold War, when Greenland became part of broader defense strategies involving surveillance and deterrence. Military installations and agreements allowed the United States to maintain a strong foothold while Denmark retained formal sovereignty. These arrangements illustrate how Greenland’s value extends beyond its land and resources, serving as a key position in global security networks. Even after the Cold War, its importance did not diminish, as new challenges and opportunities emerged.

In the modern era, Greenland has reentered the global spotlight due to a combination of factors, including climate change, resource potential, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. Melting ice is opening new shipping routes and making previously inaccessible areas more reachable, increasing interest from both Arctic and non-Arctic nations. While public narratives often suggest intense competition, the reality is more nuanced. Cooperation remains a defining feature of Arctic governance, with countries relying on legal frameworks and negotiation rather than direct confrontation. At the same time, influence is often exercised through subtle means, such as regulatory strategies and scientific research, which can carry both practical and strategic implications. Greenland’s location between major global powers enhances its significance within this evolving landscape.

Another central theme is Greenland’s ongoing pursuit of greater independence. Over recent decades, political reforms have expanded local authority and strengthened national identity. Referendums and legislative changes have given Greenland more control over internal matters, including natural resources and governance structures. However, full independence remains a complex goal. Economic challenges, limited infrastructure, and reliance on Danish support create obstacles that cannot be easily overcome. Public opinion reflects this complexity, with many citizens supporting the idea of independence while also recognizing the risks involved. The process is therefore gradual, shaped by careful planning rather than rapid change.

Climate change adds another layer of urgency and complexity to Greenland’s situation. Environmental shifts are directly affecting local communities, influencing industries such as fishing and altering the physical landscape. At the same time, these changes increase global interest in the region, as new opportunities for resource extraction and transportation emerge. Greenland’s leadership has responded by seeking a stronger voice in international discussions and asserting the importance of local decision making. This reflects a broader shift from being an object of external interest to becoming an active participant in shaping its own future.

The book also examines renewed interest from the United States, particularly during recent political developments. Proposals to increase influence or even acquire Greenland brought global attention to its strategic importance. While such ideas may appear unusual, they are rooted in practical concerns about security, resources, and competition with other major powers. Reactions within Greenland and Denmark highlight the complexity of these proposals, as they raise questions about sovereignty, alliances, and long term stability. The situation underscores how Greenland remains at the intersection of competing interests, even as it seeks to assert its own priorities.

Looking ahead, several possible futures are outlined. One scenario involves Greenland achieving full independence with Denmark’s cooperation, allowing it to establish a distinct international presence. Another envisions continued autonomy within the Danish framework, with gradual adjustments rather than a complete break. More dramatic possibilities include closer integration with another major power or increased external influence without formal control. Each outcome carries its own challenges and implications, reflecting the difficulty of balancing local aspirations with global realities. The most likely path appears to involve steady progress, with incremental changes shaping Greenland’s role over time.

In conclusion, "So You Want to Own Greenland?" presents a nuanced and comprehensive exploration of why this Arctic island continues to attract global attention. It demonstrates that Greenland’s significance lies not only in its resources or location but also in the complex interplay of history, politics, and human resilience. The book makes clear that control over Greenland has always been constrained by environmental realities, legal frameworks, and the determination of its people. As the island moves toward a more active role in global affairs, its future will depend on careful negotiation and thoughtful decision making. Ultimately, the story of Greenland is not one of simple ownership, but of evolving identity and shared influence in a rapidly changing world.

[Trina · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was interesting and written in a very accessible way.

[Lexi W · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t know what I expected out of this book, but I enjoyed that the author discussed some historical context of Greenland, as well as the large part it plays in certain global affairs due to it’s geographic position. Some points were a bit repetitive, but it didn’t detract much from the book overall. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for sending me an advanced reader copy! It is now available for everyone to read.

[Andika Lesmana · Rating 3 out of 5]

From this book, I learned that:

1. Denmark bases its claim over Greenland on a Viking who arrived there in the 10th century, Erik the Red—a figure also claimed to have historical ties with Norway.


2. The United States has been interested in acquiring Greenland since the 19th century.


3. Beyond its mineral resources, Greenland is strategically important because it lies near the borders of the United States, Canada, Denmark, Russia, and other European nations.


4. Greenland itself has been considering the possibility of independence or broader autonomy from Denmark.


5. The author proposes four possible paths based on these aspirations and the current situation: gaining independence with support from Denmark; remaining part of Denmark but with greater autonomy, given challenges in managing healthcare and education; joining the United States through a more forceful or strategic approach; or forming a Greenlandic state where Denmark gradually reduces its role while the influence of the United States increases. The author seems to lean toward a pro-United States perspective.

[Nikki_charis · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book’s title piqued my curiosity. With Greenland being in the news thanks to our ambitious President, I was interested to learn more about the island that most of us can find on a map but less of us can expound upon.

Elizabeth Buchanan takes the reader from the Viking age (briefly) to the present, back to the early 20th century and the World Wars, and back again to the present. It’s a bit of a jumbled ride, but there is a lot of geopolitical information to unpack along the journey. I was hoping to learn more about the culture and peoples of the island.

While I believe that Buchanan researched her topic thoroughly, her ability to convey the information falls flat. There are grammatical errors like introductory clauses with no commas and odd sentence structure that forced me to pause and reread entire passages in an effort to better understand. I counted no less than five uses of the phrase “more on [insert topic] later” before I stopped counting. Buchanan references pop culture a bit too much for such a serious topic: Ed Sheeran and Carrie Bradshaw both make an appearance in the book, and Greenland is referred to as “being in her independent woman era.” Frankly, these references distract from the subject matter and remove the credibility of the author’s input and intent—so much so that I was surprised to see on the back cover that the author had a PhD. But, to quote my intelligent daughter, “Having a PhD doesn’t make you good at conveying information.”

[Victor Raul · Rating 4 out of 5]

Un excelente libro que muestra las características únicas de esta enorme isla y que informa en forma efectiva y precisa su historia, su desarrollo y por que actualmente es objeto de disputas con los Estados Unidos. tiene información valiosa para entender lo que sucede actualmente en ese lugar y por que la quiere adquirir ese país. Una lectura valiosa en estos momentos.

[Clayton DeVos · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ate this up. Was a perfect blend of actual case law, various constitutions, Buchanan’s wit, and breaking down everything into digestible terms. If you’re at all interested in the Arctic strategy I would fs recommend this

[Luke Gaylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick read, great little history of Greenland!

[Corinne]

I knew nothing about Greenland, and now I know a teensy bit about Greenland.

[Josefine · Rating 3 out of 5]

While much of this book seemed really dumbed down, and some of the Viking history was inaccurate, it was a very interesting overview of the geopolitics of Greenland.

[Vale Alvarado · Rating 4 out of 5]

I definitely know more about Greenland than I did 24 hours ago!! I picked this up out of the want to know more about this island that has been populating recent headlines. Admittedly, I knew very little, so I approached this book almost as a blank slate. If you are like me, you will learn a lot.

I found the book to be very matter-of-fact. I felt like I was reading someone’s thesis except with some moments of comedic relief with pop culture references.

[Brahm Kornbluth · Rating 5 out of 5]

As we are about to head to Greenland for the first time, I wanted to find a book where I could learn more about the people and culture.

This is not that book.

But it sure is interesting.

‘So You Want To Own Greenland’ is a history of the changing international status of Greenland - why it matters, why so many nations covet it, how a land of only 56,000 people can be such a priority, its complicated relationship with Denmark, and the very slow march towards full independence (maybe).

Greenland is important for its strategic location for defence, as well as trade, oil, fishing and minerals. It has survived Vikings, Nazis, nuclear weapons, and world wars. Now a warming icecap, resource scarcity, and new political security tensions are challenging it like never before.

Greenland is especially impacted by climate change; 80% of it is covered by ice, so ice melt is a major issue, as is the warming of waters around Greenland which impacts fisheries and marine mammals.

As the book goes through history and politics, there is lots of cloak and dagger intrigue with WW2 espionage, secret research stations, illegal nuclear weapons, and yes it goes right into Trump world, wrapping up with four potential scenarios for Greenland’s future.

A fast and fascinating read. 4.5 stars out of 5.

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an advance reading copy of this book, It will be published on September 4th.

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

My thanks to Melville House (distributed by PRH) for an eARC of this timely book. It could have also been titled, "A Very Short History of Greenland", or "Greenland: An Introduction". Dr. Buchanan covers the history of Greenland from the Vikings to May 2025 (the book was then published in September 2025). An Aussie, she is a senior fellow at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute and a polar geopolitics expert, as well as the co-director and co-founder of polar warfare studies at the Modern War Institute of the West Point Military Academy.
Given the stated desire by the Current Resident of the WH to "own" Greenland, the history of the the huge island, and its relationship and importance to the US, is quite helpful.
She makes quite the case that with global warming the newly opened ship routes are of international significance. Not just to the US, but to Russia and China as well. China's claim is rather slim, and it is surprising that she never brings up their global New Silk Road policy, of which this is a prime example.
Buchanan perhaps overstates the importance of Greenland, but then its importance is what the book is all about. I also could have done with out her snarky little jokes thrown in here and there. Maybe this was done to make this a more "popular reading" title than you would expect from someone with her scholarly and policy wonk background.
The chapter on Greenland and the US in WWII (actually, even before the US was officially in WWII) is a very helpful background to the relationship between the the US and Greenland.
Greenland's official standing as part of The Kingdom of Denmark is quite complex. I wish she had explained it further in terms of the relationship between Canada and Great Britain (something we in the US are more familar with) than GB and Australia (something she is more familar with, being from there). And given us numbers and an explanation of how, and how much, Denmark is paying towards Greenland's social services.
Also, while she quotes polls, we never are given a sense of the lives and make up of the populace of Greenland, or the land itself. This is a study based on the actions of men (and a few women) in the higher echelons of power.
With a population of less than 60,000, many of whom are Inuit, there would be a problem extracting the rare minerals under the ice and ground in the land. Luckily the population does value its environment, and something like the "man camps" and super-heavy equipment that decimate American fossil fuel sites is unlikely to happen.
Overall, a very useful read on the subject. As are the four (in actuality, five) scenarios of how things could pan out for the island that can lay claim to so many natural resources, food supplies (seafood), and a defensive and offensive global location.
3.5 out of 5.

[Scott Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

(Audiobook) Given all the recent headlines that this island has generated, figured it would be a good time to actually read up on the island, its history, and figure out why it matters so much. This work offers a concise and effective analysis of the island, offering the reader the chance to learn about the island. There is a quite a unique history and current political situation with the island. European access to the island dates back to the Vikings, but people have been on the island long before. The attention on resources will vary, as it was a prime location for seal-based products. However, the advances and requirements for rare earth minerals have Greenland back at the forefront of geopolitical consideration. Yet, it biggest significance it is geographic location. It was a key staging area in the 20th century for forces in World War II and the Cold War, as control of the island by NATO-backed countries/forces enabled effective sea lane monitoring/protection. With the opening up of new trade routes in the Arctic, Greenland takes on even more geo-strategic importance.

Of course, the focus of Trump on the island continues to add even more interest to the island, and gives the author the chance to highlight its unique political relationship with Denmark. In simple terms, it is roughly akin to Puerto Rico’s relationship with the US in that it governs itself mostly, but it receiving funding from and it overall considered a Danish territory. That Trump took such a blatant interest in obtaining the island brings that into focus. Greenlanders don’t want to remain a Danish territory, but they are not in a hurry to replace one master with another. Granted, the US has had a mechanism to increase its presence since World War II, by virtue of security agreements and the provision to increase basing, but instead of defacto control, Trump, the real estate guy, was all about outright control. How that plays out remains in question.

Buchanan offers a fairly balanced analysis of the history of the island. She is critical of various abuses from Europe and America towards the island and is no fan of Trump’s efforts. Yet, she also calls out the island and its population for some of its thought processes, especially where the desire for independence does not account for how Greenland expects to maintain the services that they generally like. Buchanan doesn’t just dunk on Trump for the sake of dunking on Trump, but his actions offer plenty of room for criticism.

Overall, a strong work worthy of a read by anyone wanting a greater understanding of Greenland and why it is becoming such a big international focus area. The rating would be the same regardless of format.

[Aleksandr Popov · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sellest lühikesest esseistlikust teadusliku taustaga kirjutisest saab väga selge, adekvaatse ja faktipõhise pildi Gröönimaast. Jah! Gröönimaast!
Eesti teab Taanit - ja Taani teab meid! Lipp ja värki! Aga Gröönimaa on nende suur "võitlustanner maa". Fääri saared on nii igaks juhuks ka, aga Gröönimaata Taani Kuningriik ei saa. Hamletiga või Hamnetiga, aga ei saa!
Autor vestab meile loo sellest, kuidas viikingid ehku peale saare avastasid ja siis ära kadusid. Lännu, nagu "Patune Pool" muusikaajalukku, või Taavi Rõivas tagasi panomeheks. Neid otsima läinud preester pani käima uue ajastu Gröönimaa arengus - religioon ja kombed. Siis tuli ühtlasi ka Taani Kuningriigile meelde, et Gröönima ja selle rahvas on päriselt ikka veel nende oma. Maailmasõjad ja eriti natside salalpaanid muutsid saare nii atraktiivseks, et maailma esimese "breksiti" orgunnijad otsustasid, et Gröönima USAta ei saa. Või õigemini USA ilma Gröönimaata.
Selle seikluse käigus selgus muuhulgas, et Gröönimaad üritas algselt USAle sokutada Taani suursaadik ja alles siis aktiviseerus USA huvi. Tulemuseks oli salajase jääaluse linna ehitamine, tuumarelvade paigutamine saarele (kuigi öeldi, et ei tehta nii ju!) ja palju potentsiaalseid hetki, kus oleks läinud lahti Jääkülm Sõda. Aga siis pakkis USA oma kodinad kokku ja läks tuldud teed tagasi, sest kallis on see jäätunud saare elu.
Nüüd aga on pukis el patron oranže ja mees on sama kindel, kui lubrikant orgial, et saar peab olema tema, tfui USA, oma. Eelmine Taani poolt USAle müüdud saar on hetkel ka väga populaarne - seda tuntakse "Epsteini saarena".
Raamatu lõpus esitab autor 4 väga selget stsenaariumi selle kohta, kuidas asjad edasi võiksid kulgeda. Ja need on tõesti silmi avavad lood. Eriti hästi on lahti seletatud Arktika roll globaalses julgeolekupoliitikas ning Gröönima peamine mure - tahaks iseseisvust, aga mis raha eest?
Korraks jooksid mul judinad üle kere ka, sest Ed Sheerani nimi tuli mängu, aga ma sain hakkama ja elasin selle hetke üle. Vaatasin tantsivaid teletupse ja lubasin endale ühe eriti suure küpsise.

[Katrina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I decided I wanted to better understand Greenland and its history. I looked for a book that would offer both historical and contemporary commentary on Greenland, Denmark, and the United States. I found "So You Want to Own Greenland? Lessons from the Vikings to Trump" by Dr. Elizabeth Buchanan, and it was everything I could hope for. Dr. Elizabeth Buchanan, a polar expert who has worked for the Australians, West Point, and NATO, presents the history of Greenland in a very accessible way. While laying out the lengthy history of Greenland and the current geopolitical climate, she ensures that her book can be read by anyone interested in the topic. From Erik Thorvaldsson, who first found Greenland, and may have made his way to modern-day Canada/United States, to the current decisions facing Greenland - whether to stay as an autonomous part of the Kingdom of Denmark or independence vote, Dr. Buchanan makes it easy to not only understand the strategic importance of Greenland, but also how Greenlanders are unlikely to move for independence due to the economic and social ties to Denmark.
Trump's claims can be shown to be inaccurate. We did not give boats near Greenland when it was first discovered by Erik the Red, the Inuits, or Hans Egede, who was sent to rediscover the lost colony. Greenland and Denmark have been strong allies of the United States, yet we continue to conduct operations that run counter to our alliance. Dr. Buchanan finished this book in May 2025. I hope she writes a paper or an additional book as the situation develops.
After reading this book, I am even more confident that the United States should seek to strengthen strategic alliances rather than tear them apart. I cannot recommend this book enough, and I hope that everyone in the United States reads it.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Elizabeth Buchanan’s So You Want to Own Greenland? is a compact and engaging overview of Greenland’s geopolitical significance across history. As a nonfiction work, it’s strongest in its ability to highlight just how often this sparsely populated, icy territory has attracted the ambitions of global powers—from Viking settlers to modern-day superpowers.

The book covers a wide arc: the mysterious disappearance of Viking colonizers, Greenland’s evolution under Danish rule, its peculiar role in World War II, and its status as a Cold War asset for the United States, including the construction of a nuclear-powered base (Camp Century) under the ice. Buchanan also outlines Greenland’s modern relevance, from domestic independence movements to President Trump’s attempt to purchase it.

Buchanan writes with precision and clarity, although truly exploring the Greenlandic viewpoint in more depth would have elevated this book. Most of the narrative is shaped through the lens of external powers, and while that’s essential to the book’s theme, a deeper engagement with local voices would have added welcome texture.

In all, this is a useful and concise guide for readers interested in Arctic politics, environmental history, or international strategy. It doesn’t overreach, but it does effectively explain why Greenland—despite its isolation—has remained a central focus of global ambitions.

Thank you to Melville House Publishing for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Nick Mason · Rating 2 out of 5]

Whilst covering a reasonable background of the history of Greenland’s role in Arctic defence, the book struggles - particularly a year on with developments in the events discussed - from a rather dismissive attitude to European and Greenlandic perspectives. There are some simple annoying errors that betray a misunderstanding of basic principles underpinning the relevant states (even down to invoking the concept of hygge but with a completely incorrect definition).

The book has a plain pro-US drift, taking every opportunity to soften the negatives of any US involvement, whilst not extending the same grace to independence or Danish involvement. It also has a good degree of Cold War-style Red Scare regarding China and Russia, despite the author’s seeming acceptance of a lack of interest by those parties in controlling Greenland. Europe’s ability to respond is footnoted, whilst a proper analysis of Greenlandic politics is notably absent despite being the bedrock of any democratic outcomes for the region.

Finally, the tone is best described as Millennial snark. In such a short book, this comes across as padding, particularly given the repetitive content of parts of the book.

Combing the dismissiveness to key regional players, the brevity, and failures to understand anything but the caricatures of nations other than the US, the book is little more than a basic introduction to the topic which has been drawn out into a longer book than necessary.

[Leah E. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I can honestly say that going into this book I knew absolutely nothing about Greenland other than what it looks like and where it is located on a map.
With that in mind, I learned quite a bit about Greenland’s history, politics, geopolitics, and a bit of its culture from this book. I count that as a win. I also enjoyed the author’s sarcasm.

Now, some things that bothered me about this text…a lot of the information was repeated throughout the chapters. I found myself skimming through many paragraphs that had literally explained the same details from previous chapters and I would STILL come across it again in the later chapters. It just felt like a lot more research and information could have gone into this book rather than having to read the same stuff over and over again.

Overall, this is a great starting point for those who, like I, have absolutely no knowledge on Greenland and would like to better understand current political affairs involving the island. But be prepared to have that information drilled into you multiple times before finishing the book. And if you already have a basic understanding of Greenland, then I would say skip this and do your own research.

Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and comments are my own.

[Kristin · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're looking for an in-depth and well-constructed overview of Greenland's history, this is definitely NOT it. It was obviously written very quickly to take advantage of what the author calls the "Trump Bump" - sudden global interest in Greenland as a result of Trump's blustering last year. Formatting errors abound, and many sections are disjointed and in need of editing. However, the author should be forgiven here, as getting this out quickly was obviously important for publicity and the book was clearly never meant to be an exhaustive history.

There is a good overview in here for someone with no prior knowledge of Greenland's history (like me), and it touches on all aspects of that history - Vikings, Scandinavian (and ultimately Danish) control, the world wars, the tangled history of America's involvement, Chinese and Russian schemes in the Arctic, and the modern Greenlandic "independence" movement. Even this cursory and sometimes witty overview motivated me to seek longer and deeper sources, so in that way, I would recommend it.