CHThe article explores the historical origin of the term 'Heimweh' (homesickness), which was once considered a potentially fatal illness. It traces the concept back to Swiss mercenaries serving in French armies during the early 17th century. The word first appeared in a French-language text around 400 years ago and later appeared in a German anecdote collection from 1645, where it described a soldier who died from homesickness. At the time, Switzerland was largely composed of poor farmers, many of whom joined foreign military service. The medical community of the era studied the phenomenon, with physician Johannes Hofer coining the term 'nostalgia' in 1688, combining the Greek words for 'return home' and 'pain.' Symptoms included sadness, insomnia, fever, digestive issues, and weight loss. Some believed the condition was caused by brain disorders, while others linked it to physical factors like air pressure differences between mountainous regions and lowlands. Treatments included saltpeter and gunpowder to expand blood vessels, and there were even bans on traditional shepherd songs called 'Kuhreihen,' which were thought to contribute to the illness among soldiers.
Bias read (Center): The article discusses the cultural and historical origins of the term 'Heimweh,' focusing on linguistic and medical perspectives from the 17th century. There is no political framing, controversy, or partisan emphasis. The content is purely historical and cultural, with no mention of politics, policy
