The 'History of the Old Land of Schwyz' written by Joseph Thomas Fassbind between 1791 and 1803 is the first and, to this day, the only attempt to document all noteworthy and remarkable events of the region. It begins with the question of the origin of the Schwyzers and concludes in the third volume with a detailed account of the battles against the French in 1798. Fassbind not only describes the political history but also attempts to incorporate demographic, social, and economic conditions. The work emerged in the context of the historiography that was being redefined in the 18th century and the strengthening patriotism in Switzerland. The commentary on the edition addresses both regional and national historiography, compares Fassbind's history with other contemporary cantonal histories, and illustrates how religion, moral values, and personal experiences influenced the work. The edition serves as a starting point for further historical research in the canton of Schwyz.