The duty of remembrance and the duty of history, beyond their antagonisms, contribute to the civic formation of the citizen. In terms of the development of a critical conscience and of making the individual aware of his responsibilities, they serve to reinforce the national defensive spirit. As remembrance is a part of the construction of a people’s identity, the duty of remembrance signifies a desire for reconciliation that is not penitence. The current ‘remembrance war’ weakens the sense of republican identity, and should be considered as a real threat. Combating this ‘memorial terrorism’ calls for the development of a duty of history for the sake of the duty of defence.