The Rütli Oath: a symbol of Swiss freedom and unity

The Rütli Oath is one of the most famous and symbolic events in the history of Switzerland. It is often regarded as the founding act of the Swiss Confederation and represents the will to freedom and self-determination. Here are some important aspects of the Rütli Oath:

Historical context

• Time and placeThe Rütli Oath is said to have taken place around 1307 on the Rütli meadow, a remote meadow on Lake Lucerne. The exact historical authenticity of the event is disputed, but it remains a central symbol in Swiss history.
• ParticipantsThe three original cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden are the main protagonists in this legend. Representatives of these cantons are said to have met on the Rütli meadow to swear an oath of mutual support.

The oath

• Content of the oathThe Rütli Oath was an oath in which the representatives of the original cantons swore to stand up against the tyranny of the Habsburgs and for their common freedom and independence. The oath emphasized solidarity and the willingness to help and defend each other.
• SymbolismThe oath on the Rütli meadow symbolizes the beginning of resistance against foreign rule and the emergence of a community based on equality, freedom and mutual support.

Meaning and aftermath

• Myth and identityThe Rütli Oath has acquired mythical status and is deeply rooted in Swiss national identity. It is often seen as the moment when Switzerland began to form itself as an independent and united nation.
• Friedrich SchillerThe German poet Friedrich Schiller dramatized the Rütli Oath in his drama "William Tell" and thus contributed significantly to the dissemination and popularity of this story.
• National holidayAugust 1st, the Swiss national holiday, is often associated with the Rütli Oath, although the exact date of the oath is not known. The national holiday commemorates the founding of the Swiss Confederation and the values symbolized by the Rütli Oath.

The Rütli meadow today

• Memorial siteThe Rütli meadow is today an important place of remembrance and a symbol of Swiss freedom and unity. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals who want to pay tribute to the historical significance of this place.
• Annual celebrationsEvery year on August 1st, celebrations are held on the Rütli meadow to commemorate the Rütli Oath and the founding of the Swiss Confederation.

Conclusion

The Rütli Oath is a powerful symbol of Swiss freedom, independence and unity. Although its historical accuracy may be disputed, its significance for Swiss identity remains undisputed. The oath stands for the common will to self-determination and the willingness to stand up for common values and freedom.

The Rütli Oath

The exact wording of the Rütli Oath is not historically documented and various versions and interpretations exist. The best-known and most frequently quoted version comes from Friedrich Schiller's drama "William Tell", which was published in 1804. In Schiller's version of the Rütli Oath, the three original cantons of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden swear the oath:

Wording of the Rütli Oath according to Friedrich Schiller

"We want to be a single nation of brothers, In no adversity and danger separate us. We want to be free, as the fathers were, Rather die than live in bondage. We will trust in the Most High God And not fear the power of men."

This version of the Rütli Oath expresses the core values and aspirations of the early Swiss Confederates: unity, freedom, brotherhood and trust in God.