Une distraction patriotique. Shooting Clubs and State Institutions in Third Republic France (1871-1914)

Key Points

• To explore the relationship between shooting clubs and state institutions in France during the Third Republic era.
• Historical analysis of shooting clubs
• Examination of state records and policies
• Review of contemporary political discourse regarding shooting and nationalism
• Shooting clubs significantly promoted patriotism among members
• Clubs served as a means of military training for civilian populations
• A strong connection emerged between shooting clubs and state support for national identity