How Did Switzerland Manage To Stay Out Of War for 200 Years?

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ā¼Robā¼

the Swiss believe it or not were historically known as a competent military power (battles against Habsburg armies leap to mind) and due to the political map redrawing of this entire area (from the 1200's on) often found themselves on the prevailing side of conflict. However, Switzerland has actually been involved in modern wars (Kaiser Wilhelm II was actually DAUNTED by the prospect of attacking the Swiss and the proficency of the Swiss armies and in particular their general Ulrich Wille to the point where Germany did not invade Switzerland).

During World War II, detailed invasion plans were drawn up by the German miltary command, such as Operation Tannenbaum, but Switzerland was never attacked. Switzerland was able to remain independent through a combination of economic concessions to Germany, military deterrence and good fortune as larger events during the war delayed an invasion. Attempts by Switzerland's small Nazi party to cause an Anschluss with Germany failed miserably, largely due to Switzerland's multicultural heritage, strong sense of national identity, and long tradition of direct democracy and civil liberties. The Swiss press vigorously criticized the Third Reich, often infuriating its leadership. Under General Henri Guisan, a massive mobilization of militia forces was ordered. The Swiss military strategy was changed from one of static defense at the borders, to a strategy of organized long-term attrition and withdrawal to strong, well-stockpiled positions high in the Alps known as the RĆ©duit. This controversial strategy was essentially one of deterrence. The idea was to make clear to the Third Reich that the cost of an invasion would be very high. During an invasion, the Swiss Army would cede control of the economic heartland and population centers, but retain control of crucial rail links and passes in the RĆ©duit. Switzerland was an important base for espionage by both sides in the conflict and often mediated communications between the Axis and Allied powers by serving as a protecting power.

YES, I use correct grammar!

They're surrounded by mountains, making it very hard to invade. They have always maintained an indifferent attitude when others were spouting off about this that and whatever.

During WWII, Hitler discussed taking Switzerland. He changed his mind when the Swiss government told him they would destroy the country before they would allow it to be occupied.

Sofa King

Every able bodied man serves in the military, then stays in the reserves. They ALL have guns. Whether you want to commit a crime In Switzerland, or invade, you will be shot.

egyphile

Ather:

Simply by mainting STRICT neutrality. Here it is direct from the SWISS "Federal Department of Foreign Affairs:

"Permanent neutrality is a principle of Swiss foreign policy. It serves to preserve Switzerland's independence and the invulnerability of its national territory. In parallel, Switzerland undertakes NOT to take part in wars between other states.
In principle, neutrality is an obstacle neither to participation in economic sanctions nor to membership of international organizations such as the United Nations, or the European Union.
Even military involvement in peace-keeping operations authorized by the UN or the parties to a conflict is compatible with neutrality. But Switzerland cannot become a member of a military alliance such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)"

Many nations could take a lesson from Switzerland.

jukey

they are a neutral country

Servette

because Swiss people are smart.

Jimmymac

They all hid inside a big cuckoo clock!

Bill

"See this cheese? Full of holes, ja? Don't mess with us, or you will be like this cheese."

Contented

They are smarter than we are.

alex

they are a small country that know one cares about!

Joe 64

They just let anyone that wants to run over them, and wait for the USA to take mercy on them and dispose of the bully nations. Like the bully in the school yard. If he wants your lunch money and you give it to him you are a nice guy and he will leave you alone until tomorrow. But if you decide to kick him in the privates and stand up for yourself its war and the bully won't like you so much. OH yeah forgot to mention, all the men in Switzerland are very handy with a rifle.

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