Why is Greenland called Greenland and Iceland called Iceland? Shouldn't their names have been reversed?

Answer 1

As I have heard it, Iceland was so called due to its many glaciers. As for Greenland, the story is that Leif Ericson (the first European to visit Newfoundland, in the 11th century), gave it this name as a "marketing strategy", to encourage people to colonise the island (sort of like referring to swampland as "lakefront property" in brochures).

(Boy, those were some POed Vikings when they found out!)

Answer 2

When Greenland was first discovered, it was in the midst of the Medieval Warm Period (10th century-14th century) when you could actually farm the land. It was green! (This is why I personally do not believe that global warming is coming from pollution alone. I think part of it is just a normal cycle on this planet).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greenland

11% of Iceland is covered by glaciers. A large portion of the island is called "Highlands of Iceland" which are uninhabitable. Conditions are "desert-like" but cold. The only thing that really heats up this island are the hot springs and the volcano(s).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iceland

Answer 3

Yes, in support of the last respondant. The Vikings actually were able to grow wheat in Greenland during what is called the medieval warm period.

Later they abandoned Greenland as a colder climate set in, and Europe and America went into the Little Ice Age that lasted into the 19th century.

All testament to the fact that the climate changes in cycles that we do not understand.

So, perhaps with global warming people will be able to grow wheat in Greenland, Northern Canada and Northern Siberia.

It could be just what we need.

Answer 4

Greenland used to be quite inhabitable, with pleasant temperatures, lush fields, and fresh, running water. Then the next ice age came along.

Greenland is a testament to the natural cycle of global warming and cooling: temperatures there were once higher then than they are today. So unless the Vikings traveled in SUVs and Lear Jets, the climate history of Greenland helps debunk the man-made global warming propaganda.

Answer 5

Well Iceland because it's full of icebergs and glaciers and Greenland....did'nt Erik the Red accidently discover it and named it so.

Answer 6

Watch D2: The Mighty Ducks -- "Greenland is covered in ice, Iceland is very nice."

I know that doesn't answer your question but I've always liked that rhyme.

Answer 7

yes they s/b reversed

Answer 8

that's a funny qution. but what you should be tryna figure out if it' cupon or qupon. is it apre-sheh-ate, or appri-she-ate. is it gen-u-wine or gen-u-inn.

Answer 9

http://www.straightdope.com/mailbag/micegreenland.html

This site should give you the answers you want.