The Story Behind Ernest Hemingway’s Brother’s Caribbean Micronation

Smithsonian Magazine
Smithsonian Magazine
1y ago
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The article explores the intriguing tale of Ernest Hemingway’s younger brother, Leicester Hemingway, who founded a short-lived floating republic called New Atlantis in the Caribbean in the 1960s. Driven by a mix of idealism, adventure, and scientific curiosity, Leicester's endeavor highlights the fascination with creating utopian societies and the challenges they face.
The Story Behind Ernest Hemingway’s Brother’s Caribbean Micronation
A What happened
The article explores the intriguing tale of Ernest Hemingway’s younger brother, Leicester Hemingway, who founded a short-lived floating republic called New Atlantis in the Caribbean in the 1960s. Driven by a mix of idealism, adventure, and scientific curiosity, Leicester's endeavor highlights the fascination with creating utopian societies and the challenges they face.
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Key insights

  • 1

    A Quest for Independence: Leicester Hemingway's creation of the Republic of New Atlantis was fueled by a desire to escape political and social constraints, demonstrating a unique pursuit of freedom and self-determination.

  • 2

    Scientific Aspirations: The floating republic also had an element of scientific exploration, as Leicester aimed to study marine life and oceanography, albeit with limited resources and support.

  • 3

    Challenges and Demise: New Atlantis faced numerous challenges, including harsh weather conditions and legal issues, leading to its eventual decline. However, it remains a notable experiment in the history of micronations.

Takeaways

The Republic of New Atlantis, despite its brief existence, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for independence. Leicester Hemingway's floating republic is a remarkable story of adventure, scientific curiosity, and the desire to carve out a unique place in the world.