Independence II culture facts for kids
The Independence II culture was a group of ancient people who lived in northern and northeastern Greenland. They were part of a larger group called the Paleo-Eskimos. These people lived from about 700 BC to 80 BC. They settled both north and south of the Independence Fjord.
The Independence II culture lived in much the same areas as an even older group, the Independence I culture. However, the Independence I culture had disappeared about 600 years before Independence II began.
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Where and When Did They Live?
Evidence of the Independence II culture has been found in northern Greenland. Many settlements were located in central Peary Land. Scientists believe the Independence II population there was very small. It might have been only four to six families. This small size suggests they likely kept in touch with people from Ellesmere Island in Canada. They also might have connected with people in northeastern Greenland.
How Were They Similar to Other Cultures?
Some experts believe that the tools and items used by the Independence II people were very similar to those of the Dorset culture. The Dorset culture lived in southern Greenland at the same time. This southern group is sometimes called Dorset I.
Because of these similarities, some researchers combine these two groups. They call them Greenlandic Dorset. However, there was one big difference. The Dorset I culture in the south lasted much longer. It continued until at least AD 800, long after Independence II ended.
Who Discovered Independence II?
A Danish explorer named Eigil Knuth was the first to identify these ancient cultures. He recognized the existence of both Independence I and Independence II. His work helped us learn about these early inhabitants of Greenland.
See also
In Spanish: Cultura Independencia II para niños
