"Tirailleurs Senegalais 1857" Topic

"The Tirailleurs Senegalais were West African Colonial Army troops who fought for the French during World War I, World War II, and in numerous conquest, police, and colonial counterinsurgency operations. Despite the name, the Tirailleurs Senegalais were composed of soldiers recruited and conscripted from throughout French West Africa and not just from Senegal. However, recruitment and casualty burdens for Senegalese soldiers often numbered among the highest of the Tirailleurs Senegalais.

The Tirailleurs Senegalais were created as the first permanent units of black African soldiers under French rule in 1857. From 1857 to 1905 the Tirailleurs Senegalais was primarily a mercenary force composed of slaves and Africans from low social ranks although a small group of well-born Africans served as intermediaries. The rachat (repurchase) system of slave purchase was employed by the French in obtaining soldiers, and although the practice officially ended in 1882, coercive tactics similar to slave purchasing still continued…"
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Amicalement
Armand

My Grandfather was brigaded with Senegalese troops in WWI. He claimed most filed their teeth to points, and went "over the top" with bayonets in hand and rifles slung on their backs since they were only allowed back to the trenches with a German right ear. He said the Germans feared and hated facing methem, since they seemed fearless.

Thanks!.

Amicalement
Armand