2008年07月09日

Sealand

Ever heard of Sealand?

Sealand is a micronation that established itself on an abandoned naval fort constructed by the British Army during World War II.


It is sitated 6 miles from the coast of South East England, and was used as a defensive outpost until 1956, at which point it was abandoned. 10 years later, a gentleman by the name of Paddy Roy Bates and a friend landed on Sealand and occupied it.

Like most nations, Sealand suffered many take over attempts. After Roy declared himself Sovereign of Sealand, his friend tried to sieze control of the construction. Roy defended the fort using guns and petrol bombs.


In 1978, while Bates was away, the Prime Minister of Sealand, Professor Alexander G. Achenbach, and several German and Dutch citizens, staged a forcible takeover of Sealand holding Bates' son Michael captive, before releasing him several days later in the Netherlands. Bates thereupon enlisted armed assistance and, in a helicopter assault, retook the fortress. He then held the invaders captive, claiming them as prisoners of war.

Sealand is not recognized as a sovereign state by any United Nations member, but continues to operate as an independant country under Roy Bates. They issue Sealand Passports to their citizens, and have their own currency and football team.

A more detailed history of this interesting nation can be found here


Paddy Roy and Princess Joan Bates on Sealand
  


Posted by グラハム・ハンコック at 10:33Interesting

2008年07月06日

Guerrilla gardening

http://www.guerrillagardening.org/

Guerrilla gardening is an illegal but very nice activity whereby people decide to solve urban blight by removing trash and replacing it with plants.

It is illegal because in many cities there are local laws that prohibit a private party from planting trees, shrubs and flowers in a public area.

They come at night, remove trash, and plant trees, shrubs and flowers.

Thankyou to Herman for that link.  


Posted by グラハム・ハンコック at 09:09Fun