Eric the Red discovered Greenland.

Eric the Red, also known as Erik Thorvaldsson, was a Norse explorer from Iceland. He is credited with discovering and colonizing Greenland in the 10th century. Here is a detailed explanation of how Eric the Red discovered Greenland.

Background:
- During the Viking Age, Norse seafarers were known for their exploration and colonization of new lands.
- Eric the Red was born in Norway but later moved to Iceland due to his involvement in a feud that resulted in several killings.
- In Iceland, Eric the Red continued his adventurous spirit and set out to explore new territories.

Discovery of Greenland:
- In the late 10th century, Eric the Red set sail from Iceland in search of new lands to settle.
- He sailed westward and discovered a large, uninhabited landmass covered in ice and snow.
- Despite its harsh climate, Eric the Red named this land "Greenland" to attract potential settlers, hoping it would sound more appealing.

Settlement and Colonization:
- After returning to Iceland, Eric the Red shared tales of his discovery and the fertile lands he encountered in Greenland.
- His stories convinced many Norse people to join him in establishing a colony in Greenland.
- In 985 AD, Eric the Red led a group of settlers to Greenland and founded two main settlements, Eastern Settlement and Western Settlement.
- The settlers relied on farming, fishing, and hunting for survival in this new land.

Legacy and Impact:
- Eric the Red's discovery and colonization of Greenland paved the way for further Norse exploration and settlement in the North Atlantic.
- Greenland became a vital outpost for Norse trade, connecting Europe with the resources of North America.
- The settlements thrived for several centuries before eventually declining, possibly due to changes in climate and contact with the Inuit people.

In conclusion, Eric the Red, an Icelandic explorer, discovered Greenland during his westward exploration. He named the land Greenland and established settlements, leading to Norse colonization and trade in the region.

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