President Donald Trump's insistence on acquiring Greenland has raised alarms about the island's status as a model for indigenous self-determination. The largely Inuit population, which has achieved significant autonomy from Denmark, views the U.S. overtures as a direct challenge to their sovereignty. Historians draw parallels to past patterns of American expansionism toward native lands.
In January 1968, a U.S. B-52 bomber crashed off Greenland's northwest coast en route to Thule Air Force Base, now Pituffik Space Base. The incident involved four thermonuclear weapons that did not detonate, but conventional bombs did. Inuit dog sled teams rescued six American personnel who parachuted to safety in subzero conditions, highlighting early ties between Greenlanders and the U.S.
Aqqaluk Lynge, then 19 and now 78, recalls the event as he questions current U.S. policies. Greenlanders served in the Danish military in Afghanistan, suffering the second-highest casualty rate after the U.S. Today, 150 American personnel staff the base. "Why should a friend for so many years be treated like this?" Lynge asked. "We need support from democratic-minded people in the United States."
Trump has claimed control of Greenland is vital for national security, threatening tariffs on European allies and even force to seize it. Recently, he mentioned a "framework of a future deal" without details, but the rhetoric has strained U.S.-Europe relations. Greenland, 90 percent Inuit and three times Texas's size with 56,000 residents, exemplifies indigenous self-governance within Denmark's kingdom since the 18th century.
Lynge co-founded the Inuit Ataqatigiit party advocating independence and led the Inuit Circumpolar Council. In 1979, over 70 percent of Greenlanders voted for greater autonomy, establishing a parliament and control over domestic affairs. A 2008 referendum, supported by three-fourths, expanded powers to police, courts, and resources, making Kalaallisut the official language and outlining a path to full independence.
Recent polls show most favor independence, with 85 percent opposing U.S. ties. The island holds 39 of 50 U.S.-critical minerals, attracting investors amid melting ice, but geoscientist Paul Bierman warns of unstable terrain. "The ice is literally melting below your feet," he said.
Historians like Stefan Aune see echoes of U.S. entitlement to native lands, reframing colonialism as defense. UN rapporteur José Francisco Calí Tzay called Greenland's model "inspiring" in 2023. Gunn-Britt Retter of the Saami Council added, "You can’t buy something that is stolen."
Despite past traumas, including forced sterilizations in the 1960s and child removals, Lynge affirms, "It is our country. No one can take it." He warns Trump's actions risk global order for small nations.
