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Swiss American Historical Society Newsletter

Swiss American Historical Society Newsletter

Keywords

Switzerland, Genealogical research, Community

Abstract

Genealogical research in Switzerland is unique in many aspects because of several national characteristics. The physical terrain and political neutrality of Switzerland have virtually withstood the plagues of war which have ravaged the continent. Four offical languages - German, French, Italian, and Romansch - are spoken in many dialects by the Germanic and Latin peoples who are united through the Swiss Confederation. Caatholicism and the protestant Swiss Reformed Church are two predominant religions. Finally, and perhaps most important of all, Swiss rights of citzenship (Heimatberechtigung) are based on the medieval form jus sanguinis, the lineage of an individual.

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