Gendarmerie facts for kids
A gendarmerie is a special kind of police force. It is part of a country's army. Gendarmes are soldiers who also do police work. They help keep law and order, especially in smaller towns or rural areas. Sometimes, they also work with military forces in conflict zones.
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What Does "Gendarmerie" Mean?
The word "gendarme" comes from old French. It means "Gens d'armes," which translates to "men-at-arms." These were originally groups of horsemen. In Italy, a similar force is called the carabinieri.
What Do Gendarmes Do?
Gendarmes have many important jobs. They help with road safety, just like regular police. They also guard military bases and important places. In mountains, gendarmes often help with rescue missions.
When there are conflicts, gendarmes work to bring back peace and order. They are different from regular police because they are part of the army. This means they sometimes use military equipment, like armored vehicles.
Where Did Gendarmeries Come From?
Using military units for police work has happened in many places and times. Countries like Belgium and Austria used to have gendarmeries. However, these forces later joined with their civilian police.
Many countries that were once French colonies, especially in Africa, still have gendarmeries today. The symbol often used by gendarmeries is a flaming grenade. This symbol was first used by the French gendarmerie.
Images for kids
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French gendarmes on motorcycles in Paris.
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The Spanish Civil Guard during a celebration.
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Officers of the Polish Żandarmeria Wojskowa (Military Gendarmerie).
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Officers of the Portuguese National Republican Guard.
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A Romanian Gendarmerie instructor training a member of the Afghan National Police.
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Members of Serbian Žandarmerija marching in combat gear.
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A boat of the French Maritime Gendarmerie in La Rochelle harbour.
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A Turkish Gendarmerie General Command officer on guard at Topkapı Palace in Istanbul.
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See also
In Spanish: Gendarmería para niños
