Helvetian Code

Helvetians were the members of one Celtic tribe settled in Switzerland. Together with the Greeks, the Romans, Germanic and Slawonian tribes they belonged to the Indo-Europeans. They were known as skilled craftsmen, good in metal processing, manufacturers of superior carts and wagons. They traded with Greek and Roman colonies in Italy, France and Spain. All written report on the Helvetians comes from Greek and Roman historians and commanders. The Latin name of Switzerland, Helvetia, was used again during the Swiss Revolution of 1798 when the Helvetic Republic was proclaimed. The name was changed back to Schweiz (Switzerland) after the Revolution has failed. The name “Helvetia” can be found today on Swiss postal stamps and coins. On the Swiss cars and internet domain we can find the sign “ch”, which stands for “Confoederatio Helvetica” – the Latin name for Swiss Confederation.

In short the “Helvetian Code” is a criminal law on the base of French and German code. Since both of these codes wouldn’t fit the traditions and genius of the Swiss people the Helvetian Code was formed May 4^th, 1799. It was only short-lived after the independence of the cantons. Only five cantons preserved the Helvetian Code.

By using these links you get more information about “Helvetia” and the "Helvetian Code":

• • Source 1

  • Source 2