Who is Phoenix Foundation?
The Phoenix Foundation is a libertarian foundation that has supported numerous attempts to create independent libertarian states through freebooting. The foundation was created by Nevada-based real estate millionaire Michael Oliver, his friend James Murt McKeever, and investment advisor Harry D. Schultz. In 1972 the Foundation began to construct a platform in the South Pacific. Part of a reef, normally a metre below sea level at high tide, was piled high with sand and a small stone platform was erected carrying the flag of the Republic of Minerva—a golden torch on a blue background. The 'President of Minerva', Morris Davis, declared at the time: "People will be free to do as they damn well please. Nothing will be illegal so long it does not infringe on the rights of others. If a citizen wishes to open a tavern, set up gambling or make pornographic films, the government will not interfere." Tonga's claim to the reef was recognized by the South Pacific Forum in September 1972. A Tonga...
