By Jason Reeher
Facts About Iceland the Country
Iceland is a European island nation in the mid-Atlantic Ocean. Founded by Norwegian Vikings in the ninth century, Iceland was later a part of Norway, then Denmark. Iceland gained independence from Denmark in 1944.
Geography
Iceland is about the size of the American state of Ohio (62,137 miles). Characterized by mountains, volcanoes and coastal bays, Iceland is also covered with glaciers, which make up 11 percent of the terrain.
Weather
Despite its name, Iceland has mild winters. According to the Icelandic Tourist Board, the average January temperature in the capital of Reykjavik is warmer than in New York City. The North Atlantic Current helps to create cool, wet summers.
Travel
The island's geothermal geysers and volcanoes create natural outdoor swimming pools. Another notable destination is Vatnajokull, the largest glacier in Europe.
People
Iceland's people speak Icelandic and English. Iceland is a republic governed by a parliament, the Althingi. The Library of Congress reports that the population of Iceland as of 2007 was about 312,000, and that 86 percent of the people are Evangelic Lutherans.
Famous Ties
Iceland's most notable natives include the explorer Leif Eriksson, Nobel Prize-winning author Halldor Laxness and the singer Bjork.
About the Author:
Jason Reeher has been a freelance writer for 20 years. Reeher's opinions have appeared in a wide variety of publications, including "USA Today" and "The Wall Street Journal." He holds a master's degree in business and public administration from the University of Phoenix.
Photo Credits:
FreeDigitalPhotos.net, MorgueFile.com
