Can anyone tell me what country first issued, as a standard issue weapon, a select-fire weapon. (HINT: if you don't know, you will never guess it)

is it the french im not sure i just have a feeling

STG 44

Actually, it was Mexico. Check out the Mondragon rifle of 1900. Select fire in one position and it was a straight pull manual operated rifle. In the other position, it was a repeat-fire, self-loading rifle. Chambersd in 7X57 Mauser