Old Swiss Confederacy

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Loose confederation of independent small states within the Holy Roman Empire (1291-1798)

The Old Swiss Confederacy (German: Alte Eidgenossenschaft ) was a loose confederation of independent small states within the Holy Roman Empire. It is the precursor of modern Switzerland and existed from the late 13th century until its dissolution in 1798 during the French Revolutionary Wars.

History

The Old Swiss Confederacy was formed through a series of alliances and pacts among various cantons and city-states. The initial alliance, known as the Federal Charter of 1291, was signed by the three founding cantons: Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. This pact was primarily a defensive alliance against the Habsburg dynasty.

Over the centuries, the confederation expanded to include additional cantons and associated territories. By the 16th century, it comprised 13 cantons, including Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, Zug, Glarus, Basel, Fribourg, Solothurn, Schaffhausen, and Appenzell.

Political Structure

The Old Swiss Confederacy had no central government or capital. Each canton retained its sovereignty and operated independently. Decisions affecting the entire confederation were made through a Tagsatzung, a federal diet where representatives from each canton met to discuss common issues.

Military

The confederation was known for its formidable military, particularly the Swiss mercenaries who were highly sought after in European armies. The Swiss military prowess was demonstrated in several key battles, including the Battle of Morgarten (1315) and the Battle of Sempach (1386).

Economy

The economy of the Old Swiss Confederacy was primarily agrarian, with some regions specializing in trade and crafts. The Alps provided natural resources such as timber and minerals, while the fertile valleys supported agriculture and livestock.

Dissolution

The Old Swiss Confederacy came to an end in 1798 when it was invaded by France during the French Revolutionary Wars. The confederation was replaced by the Helvetic Republic, a centralized state imposed by the French.

Legacy

The Old Swiss Confederacy laid the foundation for modern Switzerland's federal structure and its tradition of neutrality. The values of independence and cooperation among the cantons continue to influence Swiss political culture.

Related Pages

• Switzerland
• Federal Charter of 1291
• Swiss mercenaries
• Tagsatzung
• Helvetic Republic
• Battle of Morgarten
• Battle of Sempach

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