Denmark and Greenland: What's left of the Danish Empire?

This audio is from the "How to Live in Denmark" podcast.

Denmark, as Danes often say, is a small country. But it once had a much larger global presence—almost an empire.

At various points in history, Norway was part of Denmark. Iceland was part of Denmark. Large sections of southern Sweden and parts of northern Germany belonged to Denmark. Even what is now the U.S. Virgin Islands were once under Danish rule.

Denmark also had colonies in Africa and India, which is why many Danish supermarkets still have a section called Kolonial—a reference to long-lasting products like spices and nuts that were historically sourced from Denmark’s overseas trading posts.

The Shrinking Danish Realm
Over time, war losses and independence movements reduced the Danish Empire to what is now known as the Danish Realm, which consists of Denmark, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland.

Denmark takes this realm seriously. One of the few times you’ll see Danish Royals in traditional folk costumes is during their visits to Greenland and the Faroe Islands. In Greenland, they wear Inuit clothing and sealskin boots for official photo sessions, emphasizing the cultural connection.

Even former Queen Margrethe II honored this relationship in her final resting plans. Her sarcophagus, which will be placed in Roskilde Cathedral, is made from Greenlandic marble, volcanic stone from the Faroe Islands, and Danish sandstone—a symbolic representation of the unity of Denmark and Greenland.

But recent political discussions have raised the possibility that this unity may not last forever.

The Question of Greenland’s Future
Greenland, a vast island with a population of around 58,000, has been receiving increased attention in recent years. The United States has expressed interest in strategic and commercial access to Greenland, while Greenland’s political leadership has signaled a desire for greater independence.

The economic reality, however, is complex. Greenland relies heavily on Danish subsidies, which make up more than half of its public budget. Fishing is its primary industry, but whether Greenland could sustain full independence without Danish financial support remains an open question.

How Denmark Reacts to Greenland’s Potential Exit
Among Danes, opinions about Greenland’s possible departure are mixed.

Some feel protective and defensive, especially given recent military investments in Greenland by Denmark. These include new patrol boats, drones, and even traditional dogsled patrols, emphasizing Denmark’s commitment to securing its Arctic territory.

Others feel frustrated, believing Greenland has been ungrateful for Danish support. Some argue that if Greenland truly wants independence, Denmark should simply grant it and move on.

Even King Frederik X addressed the issue in his New Year’s Speech, stating that “Denmark and Greenland belong together”—a statement that received applause across Danish social media.