The Strangest Countries That Ever Existed (And Their Bizarre Stories)

1. The Republic of Minerva

In 1972, entrepreneur Michael Oliver sought to establish a libertarian utopia by creating the Republic of Minerva on a submerged reef in the Pacific Ocean. He transported sand to raise the reef above sea level, constructed a small tower, and declared independence. However, Tonga swiftly asserted its sovereignty over the area, leading to the Republic’s brief existence.