La Suisse en Armes. Swiss World War 2 armed forces & military history map 1940

CAPTION PRINTED BELOW PICTURE: 'La Suisse en Armes'

This 1940 pictorial and informational map, titled "La Suisse en Armes" ("Switzerland in Arms"), illustrates Switzerland's military readiness and history during a period of heightened threat of invasion. The front features a detailed map of Switzerland, highlighting cantonal boundaries, key geographical features, and historic battlefield sites, adorned with heraldic shields representing the Swiss cantons. Surrounding the map are vivid vignettes of soldiers, military equipment, and defensive activities, symbolizing the nation's vigilance. The reverse provides an extensive textual history of Swiss military development, wars, and alliances, accompanied by sketches and explanations of significant events such as the foundation of the Confederation, the Reformation, and various conflicts, emphasizing national unity and evolving defense strategies. This map serves as both a patriotic artifact and a historical reference, reflecting Switzerland’s pride and preparedness in the face of a genuine threat of Nazi invasion. Hitler had devised detailed plans for an assault, known as Operation Tannenbaum, but several factors deterred the invasion: Switzerland’s natural Alpine defenses, its policy of armed neutrality supported by a well-prepared militia, and the usefulness of its banking system to the Nazi regime for managing assets, including looted wealth. Logistical challenges, the high cost of invasion, and Germany's focus on other military campaigns ultimately led Hitler to abandon his plans, despite his open disdain for Switzerland and its traditions.

DATE PRINTED: 1940/41    

IMAGE SIZE: Approx 51.0 x 72.0cm, 20 x 28.25 inches (Large); Please note that this is a folding map.

TYPE: Antique illustrated military map

CONDITION: Good; suitable for framing. Please check the scan for any blemishes prior to making your purchase. Please contact us if you would like to arrange to view this map. Virtually all antiquarian maps and prints are subject to some normal aging due to use and time which is not obtrusive unless otherwise stated. We offer a no questions asked return policy.

AUTHENTICITY: This is an authentic historic print, published at the date stated above. It is not a modern copy.

VERSO: There is related information printed on the reverse side

FOLDING: This is a folding print.

ARTIST/CARTOGRAPHER/ENGRAVER: Kümmerly & Frey, Berne

PROVENANCE: Kümmerly & Frey, Berne