William Tell, often referred to as a legend of Swiss folklore, holds an indelible place in the history surrounding the Swiss struggle for independence. Known for his unparalleled skill with the crossbow, Tell is widely viewed as a symbol of resistance against the oppression of the Habsburg rulers of Austria, who attempted to exert control over the Swiss cantons during the late 13th and early 14th centuries.
According to popular legend, William Tell was an associate of Werner Stauffacher, one of the early leaders of the Swiss Confederation who opposed Habsburg rule. In the canton of Uri, the Austrian ruler Albrecht Gessler erected a pole topped with his hat in the village square, demanding that local citizens bow before it as a show of subservience.
Tell and his young son reportedly passed the pole without showing reverence. As punishment, Gessler decreed that Tell must shoot an apple off his son's head using his crossbow. Demonstrating extraordinary marksmanship and composure, Tell accomplished the feat with a single arrow. When asked why he had drawn a second arrow, Tell initially hesitated but later revealed it was meant for Gessler had the first arrow harmed his son. Infuriated by this defiance, Gessler had Tell arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment.
While being transported by boat across Lake Lucerne en route to a dungeon at the castle in Küssnacht, a violent storm endangered the vessel. As Tell was familiar with the lake and its currents, the guards unshackled him to help navigate the perilous waters. Seizing the opportunity, Tell leapt from the boat onto a nearby rock and shoved the vessel back into the storm. He later ambushed and killed Gessler along the path between Immensee and Küssnacht using his second arrow.
This act is considered a catalyst in the foundation of the Swiss Confederation. Tell’s courage inspired others to rise against tyranny, leading to the eventual fall of Habsburg control in the region.
| Citizenship: | Switzerland |
| Birth Place: | Uri |
| Gender: | Male |
| Description: | Folk hero of Switzerland |
| Net Worth 2021: | 5 million |
