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The flag of Switzerland, most recently adopted on 12 December 1889, is red with a white cross in the middle. Historically, the Swiss flag stood for freedom, honor, and fidelity; the modern meaning is neutrality, democracy, peace, and refuge. The Swiss flag is one of the oldest flags in Europe, and like many other historic flags, the Swiss flag has its roots in a battle ensign from the 13th century. Soldiers used two strips of white fabric to make a cross identifying them in battle. The white cross with the red banner has remained an emblem of Switzerland for hundreds of years.
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Official Name |
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Anthem |
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Hear the name of the country.
The common name of the country is Switzerland. The official name is the Swiss Confederation (Confoederatio Helvetica).
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Hear the national anthem.
The national anthem of Switzerland is “The Swiss Anthem.” Lyrics by various composers; music by Father Alberich Zwyssig.
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| Country and Development Data | |
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Capital: Bern
Current Time: 5:52 PM
Latitude: 46.57
Longitude: 7.26
Population: 7,581,520 (rank=95)
Area, sq. mi.: 15,942 (rank=132)
Area, sq. km.: 41,290
Human Dev. Index rank: 7 of 177 countries
Adjusted for women: 9 of 156 countries
Real GDP per capita: $35,633
Adult literacy rate: 99% (male); 99% (female)
Infant mortality rate: 4 per 1,000 births
Life expectancy: 79 (male); 84 (female)
Currency: Swiss franc
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