Greenland, the world's largest island, sits between the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, making it strategically vital despite its harsh climate. Once almost entirely ice-covered, shrinking ice caps are revealing vast land and resource potential beneath. Geographically part of North America but politically tied to Europe, Greenland has a long history under Danish rule, gaining home rule in 1979 and expanded self-government in 2009, with a pathway to independence through referendum. As global powers renew interest, Greenland's strategic, economic and geopolitical importance is once again in sharp focus.