"THE CASE FOR GREENLAND"
(“HOW TO GET IT DONE?”)
Securing Greenland under the United States would grant President Trump a defining place in history, cementing his legacy as one of America’s most visionary and effective leaders. By orchestrating a respectful and beneficial partnership with Greenland — enriching both its people and U.S. national interests — he could achieve what no other president has in modern times: a peaceful, strategic expansion that bolsters America’s economic and geopolitical standing. History teaches us that successful unions thrive when local populations truly see the benefits. In this regard, Greenland is a once-in-a-century opportunity.
“How to Get it Done?”
Today’s interconnected world requires a respectful, detailed, and patient plan — one that resonates with Greenlanders on every level. History teaches us that successful annexations or unions hinge on winning local hearts and minds through concrete benefits, robust public engagement, and genuine respect for identity and autonomy.
By methodically presenting each Greenlander with tangible ways their daily lives and futures would improve — drawing upon the best lessons from Texas, Hawaii, and beyond — the United States can forge a new, mutually beneficial partnership with Greenland. No grand expansions or acquisitions can succeed without the trust and enthusiastic backing of the local population. Yet, as evidenced throughout America’s history of peaceful unions, state admissions, and modernization drives, the U.S. has the tools, economic might, and diplomatic savvy to make such a bold endeavor not just feasible, but ultimately transformative for both Greenlanders and Americans alike.
Key Historical Precedents and Lessons:
Throughout history, successful unions and annexations have been driven by a combination of economic opportunity, cultural persuasion, and strategic necessity. Below are key historical examples that illustrate how regions have integrated into larger nations — either successfully or as cautionary tales of missteps to avoid.
Unification of Germany (1871) — Otto von Bismarck’s deft political and diplomatic maneuvers demonstrate how building a shared cultural and economic narrative can unify diverse states. Though it involved strategic warfare, Bismarck’s real success lay in persuading multiple German polities of their common destiny.
Annexation of Texas by the United States (1845) — The idea of “Manifest Destiny” and the promise of economic and security benefits convinced Texans to join the Union. Political campaigns and media promotion played a crucial role in shaping public opinion.
Hawaiian Annexation by the United States (1898) — American entrepreneurs and pro-annexation campaigns highlighted the benefits of military protection, expanded trade, and integration into a larger economic sphere. Over time, Hawaiians were swayed by these promises, culminating in statehood in 1959.
Czech and Slovak Federation (1918) — After World War I, Czech nationalists convinced initially reluctant Slovak leaders through promises of autonomy. This case demonstrates how pledges of self-governance and shared prosperity can unite distinct regions peacefully.
German Reunification (1990) — Following the fall of the Berlin Wall, a combination of political dialogue, intense media campaigns, and strong international support dismantled decades of division between East and West Germany.
These examples illustrate how dialogue, persuasion, promises of infrastructure development, and economic opportunity have historically convinced populations to embrace new national affiliations.
A Door-to-Door, One-on-One Persuasion Effort
In the 21st century, no annexation or unification can succeed purely by decree. It must be a comprehensive, personal campaign reaching every Greenlander. This is both symbolic and practical:
Symbolic: Demonstrates respect for Greenlandic identity, culture, and individual choice.
Practical: Builds trust and counters misinformation.
Historic Parallel — Panama Canal:
U.S. Army Colonel William C. Gorgas, a physician in the United States Army Medical Corps is an exemplar. He led a painstaking, door-to-door effort in Panama, checking water containers to eradicate mosquitoes carrying yellow fever. This meticulous approach saved countless lives and cemented trust in the U.S. mission. A similar spirit of thorough, personal outreach — where U.S. officials and volunteers literally visit Greenlandic towns and homes — would showcase genuine care and diligence, building a grassroots foundation of support.
Central Arguments
1. Geopolitical Risks & Strategic Defense
Greenland’s location makes it a potential pawn in global nuclear strategies, given its proximity to key ballistic missile flight paths between Russia and the United States. In any high-stakes confrontation, Greenland’s airspace could become a conduit or a shield for intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), transforming the island into a possible flashpoint.
Potential Pawn: As tensions rise between nuclear powers, Greenland risks being used as a bargaining chip or subjected to covert operations aimed at controlling its territory or infrastructure.
Arctic Militarization: Russia’s expanding footprint in the Arctic and China’s growing global ambitions underscore Greenland’s rising strategic value.
Alliance Benefits: Full integration with America offers NATO-level protection and the backing of a global superpower, reducing the chance that Greenland becomes a vulnerable bargaining chip.
Crucial Analogy — Ukraine’s Dilemma
Consider Ukraine, lying directly in the path of Russia’s historical security concerns after enduring two major invasions, and simultaneously facing NATO’s post–World War II apprehensions. This stark geographic squeeze shows how quickly a nation can become a flashpoint between rival powers. The same scenario could unfold in Greenland if major powers see it as strategically indispensable. By preemptively aligning with a democratic heavyweight, Greenland can avoid the fate of being caught unprepared in a future geopolitical crossfire.
2. The Strengths of American Democracy: A Preemptive Choice
When comparing potential alliances, the distinction between the U.S.’s democratic framework and the more authoritarian approaches of other powers is stark. In a world where any great power might eventually vie for Greenland’s territory — either openly or indirectly — joining a democracy can be a proactive safeguard against autocratic or totalitarian influence.
Guaranteed Liberties: Freedom of speech, rule of law, protection of minority rights.
Innovation Ecosystem: Democracies, particularly the U.S., encourage creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship — driving robust economic growth.
Transparent Governance: Checks and balances reduce corruption, offering stability and clearer channels for Greenland to influence policy at the national level.
Preemptive Security & Mutual Benefit: Aligning with a stable democracy ensures Greenlanders maintain agency over their future, rather than being subject to opaque decision-making or top-down dictates.
3. Unparalleled Economic & Educational Advantages
3.1 Largest Economy in the World
Greenland’s potential union with the U.S. grants immediate exposure to a $25+ trillion GDP economy:
Wall Street Access: Deep capital markets for fundraising and infrastructure projects.
Venture Capital & Private Equity: Silicon Valley’s engine can supercharge local startups, from fisheries and tourism to data centers and green tech.
3.2 The World’s Premier University System
Ivy League & Beyond: Harvard, Yale, MIT, Stanford — offering Greenlanders a direct route to world-class education.
Tech & Research Partnerships: Specialized programs integrating Arctic studies, climate research, and engineering solutions.
3.3 Global Corporations & Brands
Powerhouse of Brands: Apple, Google, Amazon, Boeing — massive R&D budgets and global reach.
Partnership for Prosperity: Greenland can attract corporate investments in infrastructure, tourism, IT, and green energy — creating jobs and diversified income streams.
4. Massive Public & Private Investments
4.1 Infrastructure Overhaul
Highways, Airports, Ports, Tunnels, Utilities: Modernizing Greenland’s transport grid to boost trade and connectivity.
Renewable Energy Projects: Hydroelectric, wind, and possibly geothermal, reducing fuel imports and carbon footprints.
4.2 Data Centers & Tech Hubs
Ideal Climate for Cooling: Lower operating costs for server farms.
Green-Tech Innovation: Collaborations with tech giants to establish next-generation IT infrastructure.
4.3 Tourism Industry
Eco-Tourism & Polar Adventures: Joint ventures with major hotel chains and cruise lines.
Cultural Tourism: Highlighting Inuit heritage, festivals, and unique culinary experiences.
5. Cultural Preservation & Local Autonomy
Respecting Greenland’s identity is paramount:
Door-to-Door Persuasion: A symbolic, powerful outreach effort honoring each citizen’s perspective.
Language & Arts: Grants to promote Greenlandic language, media, and cultural festivals.
Self-Governance: Authority to shape local laws, maintain indigenous traditions, and protect Greenland’s social fabric.
6. Sister Cities & Societal Exchanges
A people-focused approach extends beyond politics:
Universities & High Schools: Student exchanges, shared curricula, cultural immersion.
Civil Services: Collaboration among police, firefighters, healthcare professionals.
Community Hubs: Libraries, cultural centers, and sports facilities twinned with American counterparts.
7. Holistic Healthcare & Well-Being
Advanced Medical Facilities: Modern hospitals and telemedicine for remote regions.
Preventive Care & Research: Partnerships with the CDC and NIH addressing unique Arctic health challenges.
Insurance & Social Security: Integrating Greenlanders into America’s extensive social safety net.
8. Tangible Improvements to Everyday Life
Greenlanders are rightly proud and well-educated, asking: “How does joining the U.S. benefit me?” The answer must be practical and inclusive:
Higher Incomes & Job Creation
Infrastructure Boom: New highways, airports, utilities, healthcare facilities.
Market Access: A 330+ million-strong consumer market.
Social Safety Net: Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, plus federal emergency support.
Quality Education & Retirement: In-state tuition, pension programs, and retirement schemes matching existing U.S. states.
A Comprehensive Master Plan: Public & Private Investment
1. Massive Public Investment
The U.S. can deploy large-scale, long-term financing:
Energy & Telecommunications: Modernize grids, bring high-speed internet to remote regions.
Healthcare & Education: Build state-of-the-art medical facilities and support Greenlandic universities and vocational schools.
2. Targeted Private Capital
Venture Capital & Private Equity: Seed funding for Greenlandic startups in software, Arctic tech, renewable energy, and logistics.
U.S. Corporate Investments: Data centers, responsible mineral extraction, tourism partnerships.
3. A One-Time Payout for Every Greenlander
A significant, one-time financial payout to every resident — akin to Alaska’s oil dividend model — underscoring the U.S. commitment and offering immediate benefits.
4. Equal Status as Any Other U.S. State
Representation in Congress: Two Senators and at least one voting Representative.
Full Electoral Votes: Participation in U.S. Presidential elections.
Constitutional Protections: Bill of Rights and federal legal frameworks apply.
5. Guaranteed Minimum Annual Budget & a 30-Year Agreement
A legally enshrined multi-decade financial commitment to ensure sustained investment and development.
6. Special Income Tax Exempt Status (Like Puerto Rico)
A transitional period of favorable tax policies, spurring business growth and entrepreneurship.
7. A Merit-Based Seat at the Table
Executive Branch Representation: A rotating seat in the President’s Cabinet or special Arctic councils.
Key Advisory Roles: Engagement on climate, resource management, and indigenous affairs.
8. Sister Cities & Sister States: A Cultural & Institutional Bridge
Education: Joint research programs, student exchanges, cultural immersion.
Professional Services: Cross-training among public services, shared resources, and best practices.
Community Activities: Youth sports, cultural festivals, volunteer programs.
9. Hawaii’s Special Benefits
Tourism Infrastructure: National parks, highways, airports, modeled on Hawaii’s success.
Cultural Autonomy: Legal frameworks safeguarding indigenous traditions.
Federal Disaster Relief: Critical in the Arctic as climate shifts bring new risks.
10. Puerto Rico’s Free-Associated Model as a Fallback
Partial Representation: While not full voting rights, still a voice in Congress.
Autonomy in Governance: Retaining local cultural and legal traditions.
Potential Path to Statehood: If Greenland’s populace shifts in favor of full union.
11. Autonomy, Representation, & Participation
Indigenous Rights & Arctic Environment: Embrace local leadership on cultural and climate issues.
Local Lawmaking: Greenlandic authorities maintain broad legislative powers.
Collaborative Research & Innovation: Leveraging the Arctic’s global importance.
This two-pronged analysis — security realities vs. economic promise — underscores how vital it is for Greenland to align with a stable, prosperous democracy. By doing so under President Trump’s proposed vision, Greenlanders would share in a transformative partnership that fortifiesGreenland’s sovereignty and amplifies its potential on the global stage. Such a move would echo through history, immortalizing Greenland’s choice and marking President Trump as an architect of a bold, peaceful expansion of American influence — benefiting generations to come.
Yet, when examining this proposition, Greenlandic perspectives must be given center stage. Greenland’s journey toward autonomy — a product of decades-long collaboration and partial dependence on Denmark — has galvanized a strong sense of cultural identity and self-determination. Below is a two-sided narrative, blending the U.S. justifications for Greenland’s integration with the Greenlandic realities of autonomy, culture, and economic aspirations.
Greenlandic Perspectives: Aspirations & Realities
1. Deeply Held Desire for Autonomy
Greenland’s hard-won autonomy is anchored by its parliament (established in 1979) and the Self-Government Act of 2009:
Evolving Status: Denmark handles external affairs and defense, but Greenland oversees its own legislation, healthcare, and other key domestic matters.
Cultural Preservation: Greenlanders regard their Inuit heritage, language, and close-knit communities as crucial elements of their identity.
Greenlandic Reality: A recent poll shows 85% of Greenlanders oppose joining any other nation, including the U.S. The sentiment highlights a strong desire to continue forging their own path — possibly culminating in full independence.
2. Economic Considerations & Denmark’s Role
Reliance on Fishing: Over 90% of Greenland’s exports revolve around the fishing industry.
Danish Subsidies: These funds cover roughly half of Greenland’s public budget, ensuring essential services like healthcare and education remain intact.
Path to Independence: Greenlandic leaders aim to diversify (tourism, mining) to reduce dependence on Denmark and steer toward a self-sustaining future.
Greenlandic Reality: Any shift from Denmark’s grant system to a U.S. framework must respect local governance and ensure that benefits outweigh risks — financially, socially, and environmentally.
3. Public Opinion & Self-Determination
Poll Data: Only 6% of Greenlanders favor joining the U.S., underscoring cultural and political caution.
Potential Negotiation: If a referendum were ever conducted, it would require transparent dialogue and thorough feasibility studies involving Greenlanders, Danes, and American experts.
Greenlandic Reality: The majority sentiment opposes relinquishing autonomy. For a U.S. plan to gain traction, it must address Greenlandic concerns about preserving culture, local governance, and community cohesion.
Bridging the Two Narratives
Respecting Greenland’s Autonomy
Any U.S. proposal must prioritize self-determination and cultural preservation:
Democratic Processes: A legitimate pathway forward demands thorough community consultations and referendums.
Cultural Sensitivity: Greenlandic traditions, language, and social structures must not be diluted or overshadowed by U.S. influence.
Synthesis: The U.S. can offer economic might and security guarantees but must tread carefully, ensuring no perception of imperialism. Embracing Greenland’s cultural identity is non-negotiable.
Comprehensive, Door-to-Door Engagement
1. A “door-to-door” approach symbolizes an all-encompassing dialogue rather than literal canvassing:
Inclusive Forums: Town halls, local workshops, and open debates that prioritize Greenlandic voices.
Transparent Communication: Detailed information on how subsidies, pensions, resource management, and cultural rights would be maintained or enhanced.
Shared Decision-Making: Greenlandic leaders and communities shaping any final agreement, ensuring organic buy-in.
Synthesis: This approach marries the U.S. persuasive pitch with the Greenlandic need for transparency and respect — an absolute requirement if talks are to succeed.
2. Geopolitical Realities vs. Greenland’s Aspirations
Security Concerns: U.S. defense infrastructure could protect Greenland from becoming a strategic pawn — but Greenlanders must also weigh the trade-offs in sovereignty.
Economic Promise: Substantial U.S. investments could accelerate Greenland’s diversification but must not marginalize local industries or overshadow Danish support.
Synthesis: Both the U.S. and Greenlanders must recognize that Greenland occupies a uniquely precarious position. Aligning with a major power might guarantee security, but it also brings challenges to local independence — a tension to be resolved by Greenlanders themselves.
Feasibility Studies & Mutual Accountability
The U.S. vision, while grand, hinges on political, economic, and social feasibility from the Greenlandic viewpoint:
1. Political Feasibility
Overcoming the robust public opposition requires building trust, ensuring referendums, and presenting verifiable benefits.
Any discussion with Denmark must respect existing treaties and the block grant structure.
2. Economic Feasibility
Substituting or exceeding Danish subsidies is crucial for Greenlandic public services and stability.
Establishing frameworks for data centers, tourism, and mining must integrate environmental safeguards and local stakeholder approvals.
3. Cultural & Social Feasibility
Fears of cultural dilution require proactive language and heritage preservation.
Localized discussions should highlight how Greenlanders can thrive under a broader American umbrella while retaining a distinct identity.
Conclusion: Only if these feasibility criteria are met — and Greenlandic autonomy remains intact — could serious negotiations advance.
Toward a Respectful, Future-Focused Dialogue
“The Case for Greenland” from the U.S. perspective underscores vast economic gains, strategic security, and a historic opportunity for President Trump to leave an enduring legacy. However, Greenland’s history of autonomy, cultural pride, and long-term aspiration for self-sufficiency demand that any overture from the United States be approached with humility, inclusivity, and genuine respect.
1. Balancing Risk and Reward: Greenland sits in a precarious geopoliticalposition, with major powers eyeing the Arctic. American alignment can offer formidable protections — but only if the Greenlandic people see it as a net positive for their future.
2. Empowering Greenlandic Voices: Overcoming the current 85% opposition threshold calls for transparent, door-to-door engagement — metaphorically ensuring every Greenlander’s voice is heard.
3. Co-Authoring Greenland’s Future: The ultimate key lies in co-development of policies, infrastructure plans, and cultural safeguards that uphold Greenland’s identity while harnessing American strengths.
If the United States truly desires to incorporate Greenland, the process must be one of partnership, not annexation — an alliance shaped by Greenlanders’ aspirations as much as by American strategic interests. This delicate balance holds the potential to transform Greenland into a vibrant Arctic hub, secure in its culture and identity, yet bolstered by U.S. innovation, defense, and economic might. Only through coherent, logical, and culturally aligned dialogue can such a vision find genuine acceptance — and thereby sculpt history in a way that resonates through generations to come.
The Case for Greenland ultimately hinges on respect, reciprocity, and a persuasive vision of shared prosperity. Greenlanders, as proud and educated citizens, will want ironclad assurances of economic growth, personal freedoms, and cultural autonomy. The United States, if truly committed, has a proven track record — historically and economically — of orchestrating wide-ranging, effective campaigns to unify regions and peoples under the banner of freedom, opportunity, and innovation.
Door-to-door outreach, well-crafted incentives, massive public and private investment, cultural sensitivity, and long-term strategic commitments are the pillars of success. If Greenland decides to join, it will solidify American presence in the Arctic, accelerate Greenland’s development, and bring about an unprecedented partnership that could stand as a modern testament to mutual benefit, respect, and visionary leadership.
Erasmus Cromwell-Smith
February 26th. 2025.
Author’s Note:
Potential Impact on Crypto Mining in Greenland:
Greenland’s frigid climate and abundant potential for renewable energy mirror many of the advantages seen in places like Iceland—where low ambient temperatures and cost-effective power sources make crypto mining and data center operations far more economical. By reducing the need for air conditioning and leveraging hydro or wind energy, Greenland could dramatically lower operational costs for mining farms. If Greenland deepened its ties with the U.S. (as proposed in the broader article), it would not only gain access to larger pools of investment capital but could also position itself as a major hub for sustainable, low-cost bitcoin infrastructure—potentially driving new waves of tech innovation and job creation in the process.
https://e-cromwellsmith.medium.com/