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Summary

Switzerland is a remarkable country, half of whose territory lies in the Alps. This is the history of one Swiss alpine village. Raising cattle and making cheese brought modest wealth to its struggling peasants until a destructive Napoleonic invasion brought revolution and poverty. Well-being was slowly restored by a democratic unification of Switzerland. The Alps took on a romantic tourist glow in the Edwardian age and after the disruptions of two world wars the highland farmers and guest house keeps began to prosper.

The book is published by Ohio University Press and Swallow Press.
©1999 David Birmingham (P)2013 Redwood Audiobooks

Critic reviews

“An enthralling picture of the locality in its broader Swiss and international context. Birmingham's mastery of the minutiae is coupled with an experienced understanding of the development of rural societies and of the complicated cultural, linguistic and political mix which was and is Switzerland. Vivid and delightful.” ( English Historical Review)

What listeners say about Switzerland: Village History

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Profile Image for Joss Ackland’s Spunky Backpack

Fascinating story, elegantly written

A lovely account of Swiss history, which skilfully weaves many centuries of events. The only drawback is the robotic narration. Aside from the monotony, the automated voice regularly mispronounces non-English words. “Huguenot” with a hard “T” is probably the most egregious example.

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Profile Image for Mrs

Fascinating history

Sadly the good and comprehensive story of a man to life was ruined by the awful narrator. When there are so many people who actually know how to pronounce the Mountain words, towns families and areas, why oh why did you choose someone who has absolutely no idea how to pronounce anything. He did not even know how to pronounce A range of good English vocabulary the author used.
His narrative ability made it very difficult for me to enjoy the book. I do have to add that I do live in the mountains about 10 minutes away from Château d'Oex. Very sad.

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Profile Image for Amanda
  • Amanda
  • 06-08-18

Packed with Information

I purchased this book because I recently discovered my Swiss heritage. I listened to this book before bed most nights and helped me fall asleep quickly. Not saying it was boring but easy to fade in and out of and come back to. The time line was impressive and didn't stick to just one era.

2 people found this helpful