Switzerland in 1520 was on the brink of significant religious and social changes. 

The country itself was a confederation of thirteen cantons that had come together for mutual defense against external threats, particularly from neighboring powers. The cantons were very independent, unlike the Federal system under which Switzerland operates today. The Swiss were known for their military prowess and their formidable mercenary forces were sought after by various European powers for their skill in warfare. The Swiss mercenaries were a key source of income for the cantons, and their reputation as disciplined and fearless soldiers made them highly valued in conflicts across Europe.

Switzerland's landscape was dominated by the Alps, which not only provided natural protection but also posed challenges for communication and travel between regions. Villages and towns nestled within the valleys, with agriculture forming the backbone of the economy. Farming was the primary occupation for many, and the cultivation of crops such as grains, vegetables, and fruits, along with animal husbandry, sustained the population. In urban centers, such as Zurich, a burgeoning merchant class and skilled artisans contributed to the economic vitality of the towns.

Trade routes traversed through the country, connecting various regions within Switzerland and linking it to broader European trade networks. Cities like Zurich, Bern, and Basel served as important hubs for commerce, where goods such as textiles, metals, and agricultural products were traded. However, the trade was often hampered by the rugged terrain and the lack of unified infrastructure.

Switzerland was undergoing a period of religious upheaval. The Protestant Reformation spearheaded by figures like Huldrych Zwingli in Zurich and John Calvin in Geneva was challenging the authority of the Catholic Church. This led to religious tensions and conflicts within and between the cantons, culminating in the Swiss religious wars that erupted in the mid-16th century.

Politically, the Swiss Confederation operated under a decentralized system. Each canton had its own government and was largely autonomous in its internal affairs, but they came together for common defense and decision-making in matters of foreign policy. The Federal Diet, a council where representatives from each canton convened, served as a platform for discussing issues concerning the confederation.