Buzz
Australia stands out in numerous ways. It boasts a vast range of landscapes and is home to some of the world’s most distinct wildlife. This 'Land Down Under' is also the sole place on Earth that can be both a country and a continent. While the definition of a continent may seem unclear, there are certain traits that give Australia the dual distinction.
The nation’s recognition as a country is beyond question. A country is generally understood as 'a nation with its own government, occupying a specific territory,' and since 1901, the Commonwealth of Australia—its official name—has perfectly met this criterion.
Australia’s classification as a continent, however, is more debatable. There’s no universally agreed-upon definition to define continents. Typically, they are large land masses with their own tectonic plates and enough isolation to develop unique cultures, plants, and animal species. But these aren't rigid standards. For instance, Europe and Asia share the same tectonic plate, but their cultural distinctions warrant them being separated into two continents (even though the dividing boundary is constantly shifting).
Why is Australia considered a continent but not an island?
Australia’s size is the most debatable aspect in its classification. Covering 2.9 million square miles, it’s the smallest continent, and surprisingly, its size is closer to Greenland than South America. So, what distinguishes Australia as a continent and Greenland as an island?
Australia’s uniqueness plays a key role in its classification. Its isolated position allowed it to nurture Indigenous peoples with distinct cultures and animals that are found nowhere else in the world. Meanwhile, Greenland’s native cultures and wildlife can also be found in other parts of the Arctic.
It’s well-known that Australia is both a country and a continent. Lesser-known geography facts, such as Alaska being both the westernmost and easternmost U.S. state, are more obscure. Here are more bizarre geography facts you should know.
