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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