In 1798, the revolutionary French government conquered Switzerland and imposed a new unified constitution. This centralised the government of the country, effectively abolishing the cantons: moreover, Mülhausen joined France and Valtellina valley, the Cisalpine Republic, separating from Switzerland. The new regime, known as the Helvetic Republic, was highly unpopular. It had been imposed by a foreign invading army and destroyed centuries of tradition, making Switzerland nothing more than a French satellite state. The fierce French suppression of the Nidwalden Revolt in September 1798 was an example of the oppressive presence of the French Army and the local population's resistance to the occupation. COUNT 5
QSN1 Who conquered Switzerland in 1798? ANS1 the revolutionary French government QSN2 What did the French government impose on Switzerland in 1798, centralizing the Swiss government? ANS2 a new unified constitution QSN3 What was abolished with the introduction of the unified constitution in Switzerland? ANS3 the cantons QSN4 What was the name of the new regime created when the Cisalpine Republic separated from Switzerland? ANS4 Helvetic Republic QSN5 Which unpopular republic destroyed centuries of Swiss traditions? ANS5 Helvetic