The country of Switzerland as we know it today with its Confederation of 26 Cantons has existed since 1815. Each Canton is semi-autonomous, much like the states in the USA. Switzerland is governed by 7 members of a Federal Council. Each member is elected for a 4 year term and heads one of seven government departments. The Council President serves for 1 year and then the Vice-President assumes that role. Like the U. S. there are 3 branches of the Federal Government. The Federal offices and Parliment are located in Bern. The ultimate goal is government "by the people" and it is said that no country allows its citizens to have their voices heard and to vote on more issues than Switzerland.
"Augustweggen", bread baked to celebrate Swiss National Day.
(displayed in a bakery window in Schwyz)
