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Conversely, Iceland, despite its glaciers, showcases green valleys and geothermal hot springs. The name for Iceland was assigned by a Viking named Floki, who experienced a harsh winter and noted the icebergs. The contrast between these names and the islands’ physical realities underscores a blend of historical and perhaps even marketing strategies that have persisted through time.

A Rich Yet Sparse History

The history of Greenland is as unique as its geography, intertwined with both indigenous cultures and European exploration. The earliest known inhabitants of Greenland were the paleo-Eskimo peoples, arriving around 2500 BC. They were adept hunters, enduring the harsh arctic conditions by hunting marine mammals and utilizing sleds and kayaks.