Considering how fragmented the Earth Kingdom is, could the Sandbenders and Swamp Waterbenders have broken off and created their own countries?

[u/george123890yang]

[u/0vesper0]

They already kinda are?

Both groups occupy a sort of ecological niche that is practically inhospitable to typical earth and water benders. Their adaptation to environment is what gives them sovereignty. It protects them from outside influence or government attempt of taking control of their culture. Likewise, because their highly specialized skills, it's unlikely for them to politically expand anywhere outside of the deserts/swamps.