This file does not take for base a precise definition of the concept “the Alps” such as propose of it the physical geography (criterion of altitude), human (settlement) or policy (cantons alpine or partially alpine), because these criteria are not specific to give an account of the historical development in its successive phases and under its various facets. It rather retains the current meaning of the name the Alps indicating a vast space with the accentuated relief, the bottom of the glacial furrows understood. In the Alps themselves are associated Préalpes, insofar as these last followed a virtually identical destiny, subject to regional differences. In other words, the Alps is understood here by contrast to two other natural spaces of Switzerland, the Swiss Plate or Average Country (Mittelland) and chains it of the Jura. It is question only of the Swiss part of the Alps (approximately 10% of the unit), even if many realities exposed here are valid for whole or part of alpine solid mass beyond the borders that the arbitrary one of the political history traced there.

A total and coherent history of the Alps is not yet realizable at present. Indeed, in spite of many local monographs and some thematic studies of broader horizon, it is only at its beginnings. This is why the article which follows, even for only Swiss alpine space, cannot be regarded as a synthesis. It juxtaposes information and prospects due to authors for disciplines and various approaches. Possible repetitions, contradictions and ruptures could not be avoided completely. They also return account they of the complexity of the subject.