The island of Greenland is since the eight century inhabited by the Inuit. In 981 Vikings explore and colonize the west coast of what is now Greenland. They form a more or less separate state, that disappears in 1410. In 1721 Greenland is recolonized by Denmark, leading in 1775 to the establishment of the Colony of Greenland. From 1917 on the whole of Greenland is under Danish control. Norway annexes the eastern part of Greenland in 1932 and names it Eric the Red's Land. In 1933 the International Court rules in favour of Denmark and Norway withdraws. During World War II, from 1941-1945, the United States protect the colony.

In 1953 Greenland becomes a constituent part of Denmark. Greenlands is granted autonomy in 1979. The first autonomous government is lead by Jonathan Motzfeld of the social-democratic Siumut (Forward). He remains prime minister until 1991 when he after a scandal vacates the premiership in favour of Lars Emil Johannsen, also of Siumut. Motzfeld regains the party leadershipo and the premiership in 1997. In 2002 he steps down in favour of Hans Enoksen. During this period of Siumut rule, often it forms a coalition with the Inuit Ataqatigiit (Eskimo Brotherhood). The leading opposition party is the liberal Atassut (Community). Only from 1995 until 1999 Atassut is in a coalition with Siumut.