The first evidence of humans inhabiting Greenland is around 2500 BC. These people died out and were followed by several other groups, migrating from what is now Canada, who attempted to live in this harsh environment.

The first evidence of Europeans to discover Greenland was in the 10th century when exiled Icelandic Viking, Erik the Red, left Iceland and found the southwest coast of Greenland. He named the area Greenland and settled there. He returned to Iceland and convinced many people to go back with him to settle there. The Norse settlements lasted until the 15th century. There are many theories as to why the Norse population disappeared, but no one is certain.

During the 14th century the Thule (ancestors of the modern Inuit) began to settle in Northeastern Greenland. They were skilled hunters and found plenty of prey in this environment. 

During the 18th century, Denmark began to try to reestablish contact with the Norse living on the island not realizing they did not survive. However, they made contact with the Greenlandic Inuit establishing trade with them and converting them to Christianity. 

Today, Greenland is a dependent territory of Denmark with a limited self-government and it’s own parliament. Over 85% of the population is Greenlandic Inuit.