Today, roughly 751 800 Swiss citizens live abroad, distributed over 200 countries. Many have settled down, others plan to return someday. Migrations are a historical constant: up to the age of the French Revolution, mercenary was the most common cause for leaving the country, but artists/craftsmen, merchants, clergymen, scholars, and other specialists have been on the move in Europe ever since the early modern period. However, mass emigration only became a phenomenon in the 19th century when entire groups of family and entrepreneurs set off for distant shores and continents. The exhibition has fascinating stories to tell about past and present migrants. With the help of extraordinary exhibits, photographs, and films, the exhibition shines a light on a number of exceptional people.
Photo/Foto: Nationalmuseum Schwyz