Being in the newspaper business, I often get the chance to read a lot of random Associated Press copy. This usually happens not because of my job, but because I get bored and start surfing the AP wire for interesting stuff that maybe isn’t breaking news, but that’s still cool or interesting.
I stumbled upon this story the other day about people around the world creating their own “micronations.” These micronations are described as being “quirky self-declared countries that claim independence, even if no international body recognizes them.” Cool, huh? Apparently there a quite a few of these micronations in Australia, which is how I stumbled upon the story. (I often browse for random stuff about OZ and NZ.)
Most of these micronations are formed due to frustration with the establishment (read: government), or to prove some sort of political point. (One guy, for example, was having a battle with the government over building a driveway, while another [Imperial Majesty George II of the Empire of Atlantium] wanted to inspire globally-minded free-thinking.) And while most of them are somewhat serious about their micronations, there’s plenty of humor involved, too. (The Republic of Molossia in Nevada, for example, has its own currency — that’s linked to the value of Pillsbury cookie dough.) Some micronations have become quirky tourist destinations, complete with their own passports and visas.
If you had to start your own nation, what would you call it? And what would your currency be?
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And, just for fun, here’s a video I found from (can you guess?) New Zealand. A kiwi guy was diving with a video camera, and came upon an octopus. He got more than he bargained for! Take a look.
There is one of these countries in Vienna. I haven’t been there, but you can read about it here: http://atlasobscura.com/place/republic-kugelmugel