
He started a project called the Republic of Minerva. His plan was to build this new country on a small reef in the South Pacific Ocean. He brought in sand to raise the land and even built a small platform. Then, in 1972, he declared Minerva an independent nation.
At first, it seemed like it might work. But nearby countries, especially Tonga, were not happy. They didn’t want a new country so close to them. Tonga quickly sent a group of soldiers to take over Minerva. They raised their flag and claimed the land for themselves.
Oliver’s dream of a free country did not last long. Minerva was never officially recognized by any other nation. Still, his story shows how far someone can go to try and create a place of their own. Even though the project failed, it remains a curious moment in the history of real estate and freedom.
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