The Atlas of Microstates

Defined as sovereign states with a very small population, land area, or both, microstates serve as fascinating case studies of geopolitical significance. This atlas explores the unique history, politics, and self-determination of the world-s smallest states.

Under what conditions do microstates form in the first place? Is there a correlation between the size of a political unit and its relative sovereignty? What contributes to the success of ministates, or, in certain cases, their failure? From modern day city-states, island countries as well as sparsely populated territories, to historical anomalies, tax havens, aspirant states and micronations, this atlas considers a wide range of countries largely defined by their relative smallness.