Centered on the men rather than on the doctrines, this article is focused on the pacification of the maintenance of law and order in 19th century France. In spite of many tragic episodes, one can locate a slow reduction in repressive violence since the 1830s. Related to the professionalisation of the gendarmerie departementale, this change is especially explained by the development of a less distinctive professional culture which durably impregnates the gendarmerie mobile.