Topic: Leif Erikson

A new report featured on Democracy Now! indicates that the Arctic has warmed at twice the rate of the rest of the planet over the last five years. Historical context is provided regarding the naming of Greenland and Iceland by Vikings like Leif Erikson, suggesting the names were originally intended as a form of misdirection. The discussion questions the scope of modern climate record-keeping which only dates back to 1900.

October 10th is recognized as Leif Erikson Day by presidential proclamation. The official White House narrative credits the son of Iceland and grandson of Norway with being the first European to visit North America after his ship drifted off course to present-day Canada. The hosts characterize the celebration as honoring a historical figure who essentially got lost at sea.