On this day, in the year 1291, our land was subject to the extremely tyrannical rule of the Austrian Duke Gessler.  The Duke had a pole erected in the center of each town with a hat of his upon it, insisting that anyone who passed it must bow to show his/her deference.

Finally beyond enduring the many oppressions delivered unto them, 3 men from the three city-states around Lake Lucerne met and swore a blood oath to oppose the Duke's rule together and thereafter to live in peace as one.  They made this pact on August 1st.

It was this defiance that eventually lead William Tell to assassinate the Duke and lead the city-states to freedom and independence from outside rule- and particularly from Austrian influence.

Today, from these three states, Switzerland, the Confederation Helvetica (CH), has grown to 26.

What is most remarkable about this story to me is it's dramatic similarity to the American rebellion against English oppressors.  It is one of the reasons I find the United States so warm and welcoming and also why I call it my "second home."

Won't you join me on "Swiss Confederation Day" in celebrating the spirit of independence and freedom from oppression- in whatever form.

Maybe we should all play the "William Tell Overture"?

[<]:)]

I just slammed a beer in their honor.

To Liberty--[beer]

BTW, interesting story--I had never heard that before.  Thanks.

[beer]
Thanks for the history lesson Tatjana.
Cheers.

A very interesting lesson of history. To freedom and liberty!  Thanks Tatjana.

[beer]