Swiss Mercenaries in Dutch East Indies

This lecture explores the involvement of Swiss soldiers in the Dutch East Indies from 1815 to 1914, shedding light on their recruitment, deployment, and experiences. It delves into the global demand for mercenaries, the composition of the colonial army, and the volatile nature of recruitment. The lecture also discusses the continuous state of violence in the Dutch East Indies and the financial aspects of colonial service, highlighting the disparities in pensions. Through the lens of Swiss mercenaries, it examines Switzerland's integration into imperial spaces, the visibility of colonial violence in Swiss history, and the colonial inequalities faced by soldiers.