The Principality of Sealand is a self-proclaimed micronation located on a former World War II naval fort in the North Sea, about seven miles off the coast of England. Established in 1967 by Paddy Roy Bates, it claims to be an independent sovereign state, although it is not officially recognized by any other country. Sealand has its own flag, national anthem, and currency, and it operates under a unique set of laws. The fort, known as HM Fort Roughs, has been the site of various attempts to assert its independence, including a brief occupation by foreign mercenaries in 1978.