Trump's Greenland Aspirations Draw Parallels to U.S. Virgin Islands Acquisition

By Michael Loria, USA TODAY

In a recent statement, President Donald Trump expressed his intent to acquire Greenland from Denmark, saying, “one way or another we’re gonna get” the strategically significant territory. The comment has reignited historical debates about U.S. territorial expansion, echoing the early 20th-century acquisition of the U.S. Virgin Islands, formerly known as the Danish West Indies.

Historical Context of U.S. Territorial Expansion

The U.S. Virgin Islands became a U.S. territory in 1917 after the U.S. purchased them from Denmark for $25 million. The islands, located in the Caribbean, were seen as critical military and trade positions at a time when global powers were redefining their territories. Historians highlight how high-ranking officials, including then-President Woodrow Wilson and Secretary of State Robert Lansing, discussed military action to seize the islands if negotiations failed.

Today’s political landscape, with Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland, appears to mirror this century-old ambition. The island’s vast natural resources, its geographical location, and the potential for military and economic advantage are seen as significant draws for the current administration.

The Case for Greenland

President Trump’s interest in Greenland is driven by multiple strategic factors. Beyond its vast ice sheets and unique landscape, Greenland is believed to hold considerable reserves of rare earth minerals. The U.S. aims to reduce its reliance on foreign sources, particularly China, which has already invested heavily in mining initiatives on the island.

Furthermore, the changing Arctic climate opens up new shipping routes, with the Northwest Passage potentially shortening travel distances between the U.S. and Asia. These factors enhance Greenland’s value from a military and economic perspective, prompting Trump to state that the U.S. has a duty to ensure peace and security through such acquisitions.

Comparing Past and Present: The U.S. Virgin Islands

The experience of residents in the U.S. Virgin Islands offers critical lessons about the implications of territorial acquisition. While the U.S. brought improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, and education compared to Danish governance, deeper systemic issues remain. Residents of the Virgin Islands faced economic hardship, and many emigrated in search of better opportunities.

Critics argue that even after becoming U.S. citizens in 1927, Virgin Islanders have not received equitable treatment. They lack full voting rights and certain federal benefits, such as Medicaid funding, which is capped for territories. The average household income in the Virgin Islands is significantly lower than the national median, pointing to ongoing economic challenges.

The Greenland Debate: What Lies Ahead?

As discussions around Greenland escalate, parallels drawn from the U.S. Virgin Islands are crucial. While the U.S. can potentially enhance the living conditions for Greenlanders, history advises caution in assuming that such a transition will automatically lead to improved circumstances.

Current Greenland residents enjoy a robust welfare system offered by Denmark, contrasting sharply with the economic uncertainties experienced in the Virgin Islands post-acquisition.

Prominent voices, including former delegate to Congress Donna Christensen from the Virgin Islands, have noted that historical lessons should not be ignored. She underscored the continued struggle for equitable representation and the need for careful consideration of what joining the U.S. would mean for Greenlanders.

As the administration pushes forward, the historical context of U.S. territorial ambitions could shape the future dialogue around Greenland and its potential status under U.S. governance.