!!!Schweiz - Österreich

Switzerland - Austria: In the middle ages the historical relationship 
between Austria and Switzerland was determined in particular by the 
Swiss Habsburg dynasty. The Habsburgs, who ruled over large parts of 
Switzerland, received the lands Austria and Styria in 1282. After the 
foundation of the Confederation (1291) they were gradually driven out 
of Switzerland and after several severe defeats (Morgarten 1315, 
Sempach 1386, Naefels 1388) had to cede their Swiss domains in the15th 
century. In 1499 the Confederation became independent from the 
Austrian Empire. Further contacts of the Austrian lands with 
Switzerland focused on the area next to Lake Constance (Vorarlberg); 
Switzerland´s growing policy of neutrality, which was recognised 
in 1815, had a somewhat inhibiting influence on the relationship 
between the two countries in the 19%%sup th/%  century.

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During the 18%%sup th/%  and 19%%sup th/%  centuries some Swiss 
settled in Austria to found small enterprises (watchmakers from 
Geneva). In the 20%%sup th/%  century Switzerland escaped both World 
Wars due to its policy of neutrality and was thus able to remain an 
area of prosperity. In 1919 and 1945 Switzerland took in children from 
Austria. Political ties have been strengthened since 1955 due to 
Austria´s neutrality, and economic relations have become 
stronger since 1960 due to EFTA. The number of Austrians working in 
Switzerland has also risen considerably. Since Austria´s entry 
into the European Union Swiss companies have tried to increase their 
economic influence in Austria.

!Literature
U. Altermatt and E. Brix (eds.), Schweiz und Oesterreich, 
1995.


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