A majority of Swiss people believe that the country came into being in 1848 with the creation of the federal state, rather than in 1291. They also regard William Tell as a legendary figure rather than a historical hero, according to a poll published ahead of the National Day on 1 August.

Eine neue Umfrage zeigt: Die Welschen pflegen ein mythologischeres Bild der Schweizer Geschichte als die Deutschschweizer. Dazu passt auch Guy Parmelins 1291-Käppi.

A majority of Swiss people believe that the country came into being in 1848 with the creation of the federal state, rather than in 1291. They also regard William Tell as a…