The compagnie franches de la mer or French Marines were created in 1622 by Richelieu, and placed under the Ministry of the Navy in the early 19th century. These were reorganized into régiments d'infanterie coloniale in 1900 and placed under the Ministry of War. In 1958, all Colonial Infantry Regiments were retitled "French Marines", also known as the RIMa. The 3rd Colonial Infantry Division fought in the First and Second world wars.