Temporary exhibition

The First World War left a lasting mark on the bodies and minds of soldiers. 
In 1919, nearly 21 million soldiers were wounded and mutilated. Their crippled and damaged bodies required rehabilitation, reconstruction and reintegration into a world that was also being rebuilt. 
In France, many institutions played an important role in the care and reconstruction of war victims. 
Physical activity and sport also emerged as key tools in the rehabilitation of war wounded. Rehabilitation through sport was promoted throughout the 20th century. 
From the 1960s onwards, these sporting activities became institutionalised and then globalised. This led to the emergence of the "disabled sport" identity. 
Sports associations and federations were set up. They structured and regulated these activities so that war wounded could play in the best possible conditions. 
Throughout history, prostheses have also played an essential role in repairing and compensating for the loss of limbs. During the First World War, new prostheses made it possible to return to a social and professional life. In the early 2000s, researchers created prostheses that enabled these "new sportsmen and women" to perform at their best. 

The Olympic and Paralympic Games to be held in France in the summer of 2024 will put these athletes in the spotlight. The Musée de la Bataille de Fromelles and the University of Lille are taking this opportunity to highlight the advances that are making these athletes ever more powerful. 
With this new temporary exhibition, discover the innovations, the major events and the careers of these sportsmen and women who shed light on this new history. 
  
26 June 2024 to 2 February 2025 
Free admission. Available in English and French.