Switzerland remained neutral during the First World War (1914-18). However, the war had an important impact on the country's political, social and economic life.

During the war Swiss men were put on active duty to defend the frontiers. However, they were poorly paid for their military service, they received no compensation for lost wages and when they returned home many found they had lost their jobs.

The war sharpened existing antagonisms between German and French speakers, who tended to support different sides in the conflict.