Definition

Proper noun A historical military engagement that occurred in 1386, where the forces of the Old Swiss Confederacy achieved a decisive victory over the Habsburg army. This battle is significant for securing the de facto independence of the early Swiss Confederation from Habsburg domination.

Usage

This term is used exclusively as a proper noun to refer to this specific historical event. It is typically used in historical, academic, or educational contexts.

Examples

• The Battle of Sempach was a pivotal moment in Swiss history.
• Historians study the tactics used at the Battle of Sempach.
• The anniversary of the Battle of Sempach is still commemorated in some Swiss cantons.

Advanced Usage

• The term can be used metonymically to represent the concept of a successful struggle for autonomy by a smaller power against a larger, more established empire.
  • Their legal fight was described as a modern-day Battle of Sempach against corporate hegemony.

Variants and Related Words

• Sempach (Proper noun): The town and lake near which the battle took place. Often used shorthand in context (e.g., "the victory at Sempach").
• Swiss Confederacy / Old Swiss Confederacy (Proper noun): The political entity that fought and won the battle.

Synonyms

• (The) Battle at Sempach
• (The) Sempach conflict

Related Phrases and Context

• Escape from domination: This phrase is central to understanding the battle's consequence, as defined in the reference context ("escaped Hapsburg domination").
• Habsburg / Hapsburg domination: The political and military control exerted by the House of Habsburg, which the Swiss Confederacy resisted.

Noun

1. the Swiss Confederation escaped Hapsburg domination by their victory in 1386