The Republic of Geneva is proclaimed in 1541, under John Calvin, and given a constitution (Édits civils) in 1543.

The Republic of Geneva reinforces its alliance to the Protestant cantons of the Swiss Confederacy, becoming an "everlasting ally" in 1584.

The French Revolution reaches Geneva in 1792, and in February 1794, the Republic gives itself a new, revolutionary constitution that proclaims the equality of all citizens.

After the death of Robespierre in July of the same year, there is a counterrevolution, which gains the upper hand by 1796.

This prompts the French invasion of 1798, and the annexation of Geneva as part of the French département du Léman.

Geneva finally joins the Swiss Confederation in 1815 as the 22nd canton, having been enlarged by French and Savoyard territories at the Vienna Congress.