The Mysterious Land- Unveiling the Most Recently Discovered Country in the Modern Era
What is the most recently discovered country? This question might seem peculiar, as countries are typically recognized and mapped out long before the age of exploration. However, the concept of discovering a country can be interpreted in different ways, leading to some intriguing possibilities. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of cartography and exploration to uncover the most recently discovered country in the modern era.
The idea of a country being “discovered” might seem outdated, especially considering that most of the world’s landmasses were mapped out during the Age of Exploration in the 15th and 16th centuries. However, there are instances where territories were not fully recognized or acknowledged as independent countries until recent times. One such example is the South Ossetia region, which was recognized as an independent country in 2008 after a conflict with Georgia.
Another case is the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, commonly known as North Korea, which was established in 1948. While it was recognized by the United Nations in 1991, it is often considered the most recently discovered country in terms of its formal recognition as an independent nation.
One of the most notable recent discoveries is the Maldives, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean. Discovered by the Portuguese in the 16th century, the Maldives remained a British protectorate until 1965. Although it has been known to the world for centuries, its independence was officially recognized in 1965, making it one of the most recently discovered countries in the modern era.
Another interesting case is the Marshall Islands, which were discovered by the Spanish in 1529 but were not recognized as an independent country until 1986. The Marshall Islands’ history is marked by colonization and occupation by various powers, including Spain, Germany, Japan, and the United States. It was only after gaining full sovereignty that the Marshall Islands were recognized as a fully independent nation.
In the case of the Kingdom of eSwatini, previously known as Swaziland, its name was changed in 2018 to reflect its indigenous language. While the country itself has been known for a long time, the change in its name and the subsequent rebranding can be seen as a form of “rediscovery” by the international community.
In conclusion, while the concept of discovering a country might seem outdated, there are instances where territories have gained international recognition as independent nations relatively recently. The South Ossetia region, North Korea, the Maldives, the Marshall Islands, and eSwatini are some examples of countries that have been discovered or re-discovered in the modern era. These cases highlight the dynamic nature of international relations and the ever-evolving world map.