European Kingdoms

Switzerland

Not exactly part of Germany, Switzerland falls between the Western and Eastern Frankish nations, and was, for long periods of its history, controlled by Franks. It passed out of Roman control into Burgundian hands (AD 450-613), and was then under direct Frankish control (and was attached to Frankish Neustria (613-719)) until 843. It passed to the Middle Franks (based in Italy) until 869, and then the Germanic Franks until 888. From there it went back into Frankish Burgundian control (888-1032), and thence to the Franconian and later Holy Roman Emperors (1032-1648).

As Switzerland has never possessed a monarchy, and is in fact a republic, there are no lists to be added here.

1291

The Swiss Confederation arises.

1355

The Confederation achieves full autonomy.

1513

Lugano again becomes the property of Switzerland, this time permanently (Bellinzona district (1513-1798), Canton of Lugano (1798-1803), Canton of Ticino (from 1803).

1648

Following the end of the Thirty Years War and the Treaty of Westphalia, Switzerland gains full independence from the Austrian-dominated Holy Roman Empire.

1798

Switzerland is seized by the French First Republic, which reforms it into the Helvetian Republic.

1803

The Helvetian Republic is abandoned and Switzerland's Confederation is re-established.

1815

Switzerland's 'perpetual neutrality' is guaranteed by the Congress of Vienna, following the conclusion of the Napoleonic Wars against France.

1845 - 1847

A constitutional crises escalates into civil war.

1848

The modern Swiss state is established, following reforms to the old system.