The United States has made multiple attempts since the 19th century to purchase Greenland from Denmark, reflecting the island’s enduring strategic value. These efforts span from 1867 to 2025, involving various American administrations and highlighting the evolving geopolitical significance of the Arctic region.
Background
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, represents the world’s largest island. The territory maintains significant autonomy over internal affairs while Denmark controls foreign policy, defense, and monetary matters. Under Danish law, Greenland can pursue independence through a referendum and parliamentary approval.
Historical Proposals
The Seward Initiative (1867)
Following the Alaska Purchase, Secretary of State William H. Seward considered acquiring both Greenland and Iceland. His administration explored a potential $5.5 million gold purchase, but Congress’s opposition to President Johnson prevented the proposal from advancing.
Early 20th Century Attempts
In 1910, US Ambassador Maurice Francis Egan discussed a complex territorial exchange involving Mindanao and Palawan for Greenland and the Danish West Indies. This creative proposal did not materialize, but it demonstrated continued American interest in the territory.
Post-World War II Negotiations
The most significant attempt came in 1946 when the United States offered Denmark $100 million in gold bullion for Greenland. The proposal included alternative options:
- A 99-year lease on existing American bases
- Complete US control of island defense
- Outright purchase
Denmark rejected all options, emphasizing the territory’s cultural and historical significance to Danish identity.
Strategic Importance
Military Significance
GIUK Gap Control
The Greenland-Iceland-UK Gap represents a critical maritime corridor for North Atlantic defense. Control of this region allows monitoring of naval movements and provides strategic advantage in potential conflicts.
Aerospace Defense
Greenland’s location offers vital positioning for:
- Early warning systems
- Missile defense
- Space surveillance
- Polar satellite operations
Space Operations
The US Space Force maintains Pituffik Space Base, one of only two Arctic facilities available for tracking polar-orbiting satellites. This installation provides essential capabilities for:
- Satellite communications
- Weather monitoring
- Military operations
Natural Resources
Greenland possesses substantial natural resources:
- 17.5 billion barrels of estimated offshore oil
- 4.19 trillion cubic meters of natural gas
- Largest rare-earth element deposits outside China
- Two-thirds of Earth’s fresh water outside Antarctica
Arctic Shipping Routes
Climate change is increasing the strategic value of Arctic shipping passages:
- Northwest Passage reduces travel distance by 4,300 miles
- Northern Sea Route may become ice-free by 2030
- Potential for 5% of global shipping by 2050
Current Situation
Economic Context
Greenland’s economy remains heavily dependent on Danish support:
- Annual GDP of $3 billion
- Danish subsidy of 5.6 billion kroner annually
- Limited infrastructure development
- Fishing as primary private industry
Defense Arrangements
Current defense arrangements include:
- NATO membership through Denmark
- US military presence through 1951 Defense Agreement
- Single US base at Pituffik
- Regular NATO exercises
- Danish military responsibility for territorial defense
Independence Considerations
Greenland’s potential independence affects US strategic interests:
- February 2024 declaration of independence as goal
- April 2025 election focusing on independence
- Questions about future defense capabilities
- Potential for new security arrangements
Recent Developments
Trump Administration Proposals
Donald Trump’s presidency renewed interest in acquiring Greenland:
- Initial discussions began in 2017
- Public proposal in 2019
- Continued advocacy after 2024 reelection
- Focus on security and resource access
Danish Response
Denmark consistently maintains:
- Greenland is not for sale
- Support for Greenlandic self-determination
- Commitment to US alliance
- Investment in Arctic defense capabilities
International Context
The strategic environment includes:
- Increased Russian Arctic presence
- Growing Chinese interest
- Climate change impacts
- Resource competition
Summary
The United States’ recurring interest in purchasing Greenland reflects the territory’s enduring strategic value. From Seward’s 1867 proposal to contemporary discussions, American administrations have recognized Greenland’s importance for defense, resource access, and Arctic influence. While Denmark consistently rejects sale proposals, evolving Arctic dynamics and Greenland’s potential independence ensure continued American strategic interest in the region.
