Here's a breakdown:
* Greenland was known before Erik: Greenland had been inhabited by Inuit people for centuries before Erik the Red arrived.
* Erik's exploration: Erik, exiled from Iceland, traveled to the west and found a large, icy landmass. He named it "Greenland" in hopes of attracting settlers.
* Settlement: Erik founded a settlement in southern Greenland, attracting other Norse people to join him. This settlement, called "Eastern Settlement," flourished for several centuries.
So, Erik the Red didn't discover Greenland itself, but he did establish the first European settlement in the region, making him a significant figure in Norse history.