Franc Tireur

Franc Tireur

Francs-tireurs—literally "free shooters"—was used to describe irregular military formations deployed by France during the early stages of the Franco-Prussian War (1870–71). It is sometimes used to refer more generally to guerrilla fighters who operate outside the laws of war.

The term was revived and used by partisans to name two major French Resistance movements set up to fight against the Germans during World War II.