The Birth of Switzerland: The Historical Union That Changed Europe

01.08.2025 | Historical dates

How three mountain cantons lay the foundation of one of the most stable European states through a revolutionary federal treaty for its time, which establishes the foundations of modern Swiss statehood.

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The epochal moment in European history occurs on August 1, 1291, when three alpine cantons - Schwyz, Uri, and Unterwalden - officially seal their union with a document that will change the political landscape of the continent.

The Federal Act becomes a symbolic foundation of the future Swiss statehood, whose significance goes beyond the geographical boundaries of that time. Although it initially appears as a local agreement, the treaty lays the groundwork for a unique political community based on mutual trust and collective protection.

An interesting fact is that despite its historical importance, the holiday is officially established only in 1994. Since then, August 1 has become a national holiday, accompanied by traditional celebrations - torch processions, flag waving, and impressive fireworks that symbolize the freedom and unity of the Swiss people.