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People
The Swiss people as a whole are mainly of Alpine, Nordic, and Slavic
or Dinaric descent. The ethnic composition of Switzerland is generally
defined by the major language communities: German, French, Italian,
and Romansh (Rhaeto – Romanic). Less than 10 percent of
the population is made up of other ethnicities, such as Spanish,
Portuguese, and Turkish.
The population of Switzerland during the year 1995, is estimated
to be 6,955,000. Approximately 64 percent of the population is classified
as urban, but most live in small towns.
There are enormous regional differences between the Swiss people.
Visitors may sense variations in attitude in different areas of
Switzerland. Perhaps a bit more relaxed and jovial in the south
(Lugano, Locarno), more urbane and volatile in the west (Geneva,
Lausanne), more businesslike and officious in the east (Zurich,
Bern, Basel, Lucerne), where most banks are located.
Language
English is widely spoken in Switzerland. The national languages are
German (North, Central and Eastern Switzerland), French (Western Switzerland),
Italian (Southern Switzerland) and Romansh - a derive of Latin - (South-Eastern
Switzerland).
Religion
Consist of mainly Roman Catholic and Protestants.
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