The Besançon Tram network dated back to a horse tram service inaugurated in 1887. The first two electric tram lines began operating in 1897, joined later by (probably four) more. However, the system, which used only single tracks for its two lines, was badly damaged during the Second World War from which its finances also emerged in a parlous condition. In 1952, the operation having run out of funding possibilities, the Besançon trams were withdrawn: a city bus service was inaugurated in December 1952.