They are known as von Reding, de Chambrier, von Waldkirch, or von Salis, and for around 500 years, they have significantly influenced the fate of our country. However, the role of numerous Swiss noble families has been downplayed in history books. Our historical perspective needs correction: the Confederation was not just a republic of peasants and craftsmen. Rather, Switzerland was under the rule of an aristocratic elite from the Habsburgs until the fall of the Old Confederation. Their descendants pursued careers in politics, diplomacy, the military, business, and science. In interviews, family histories, and anecdotes, the book vividly recounts the role of noble women, symbols of power, the French court as a model, and monasteries as institutions for providing for "surplus" family members.