The "slackers" of the First World War

The adoption in France during the First World War of universal and egalitar ian conscription reached a level that has never been equaled. More than 90% of the young men called up were passed as fit for combat. Nevertheless, ca ses of unequal treatment became widely known. Members of the Parliament and public opinion were scathing in their denunciation of these shirkers who f ound safe haven far from the firing line. The practice of seeking safe post s in the rear is a social phenomenon that has an important place in the cul ture of war.