Abstract: Map is an overlay to Mss Eur F112/570, f 28 and forms a part of Mss Eur F112/570, ff 24-30.The title and legend are printed on a small paper sheet that has been pasted over the south-west corner of the map. Map portrays, by variously coloured boundaries, areas in which it is 'hoped that the inhabitants will opt for [British, French or Italian] assistance'. Bears the imprint '8146.' [Published by the Political Intelligence Department, Foreign Office, 21 November 1918.]Another copy of this map is at Mss Eur F112/570, f 20.Physical description: Materials: Printed in colour on tracing paperDimensions: 243 x 393mm, on sheet 290 x 450mm
Abstract: Title taken from manuscript annotation on verso; recto bears no title.Printed sheet depicting disputed territories in the Caucasus, particularly Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia and southern Russia. Portrays hydrology, railways, settlements, place names, and international and internal boundaries; also depicts areas under dispute and three successive positions of the 'Denekin Demarkation Line'.The sheet bears the imprints '9172.28700.135.' and 'Malby & Sons, Lith.'Manuscript additions portray relief by hachures, amendment to the spelling of 'Denekin' to the more standard 'Denikin', and revision to the wording in the key.An attached folio (f 40a. Manuscript: ink on paper; 104 x 81mm) bears the note 'This map will be attached to the [?]print.'Physical description: Materials: Printed in colour, with manuscript additions in ink and pencilDimensions: 306 x 470mm, on sheet 345 x 510mm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 31 March 1916. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, letters, tables, and memoranda containing instructions and reports.The volume mostly relates to:Reinforcements and supplies for Force D, including: weapons; ammunition; river craft; land vehicles; airplanes; animals; clothing; hospitals; chemicals; and tentsStaff movements, salaries, promotions and status (e.g. sick, wounded, discharged, dead)Prisoners of warSituation in Turkey, in particular the anti-German feeling and Russian advancesUpdates from the Tigris line, especially around Kut [Al-Kut] and Hannah [Umm al Hannah] and with particular attention paid to the impact of floodingUpdates from the Euphrates lineOperations by the Russians in the Caucasus regionDetails of Turkish [Ottoman] forces, including: proposals for negotiations; distributions (ff 65-66); changes in command; and movements of troopsSupply of weapons to Bin Sa’ud [‘Abd al-‘Azīz bin ‘Abd al-Raḥmān Āl Sa’ūd]Lines of communication and requests for more detailed intelligenceDiscussions about Sharif [Al-Ḥusayn bin ‘Alī al-Hāshimī, Sharīf of Mecca], including: his plans; requests he has made of Great Britain; whether his policies for Arabia and Syria should be adopted in MesopotamiaProposals for the formation of a Base Depot at Basrah [Basra]Articles published in England and in the Gulf.The volume also includes:Distributions of Force D: on 5 March (ff 10-12); 12 March (ff 101-104); 26 March (ff 149-152); as of 29 March (ff 185-191); at 19 March (ff 199-202)Appreciations [reports] by General Charles Townshend (ff 15-16) and General George Gorringe (f 22)Appreciations from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia on 20 March (ff 55-56) and 27 March (ff 147-149)Announcement by the Maharajah [Mahārājā] of Kolhapur in support of soldiers eating horse meat (f 161)‘Statement showing the strength of reinforcements and details for Basrah which embarked at Bombay [Mumbai] and Karachi’ (ff 211-225).The vast majority of material in the volume dates from March 1916, with the exception of quoted excerpts from a newspaper, dated 17 January 1916.A summary of the contents of this volume can be found at the start of IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3248.Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 227; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-225; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 April 1916. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, letters, and memoranda containing instructions and reports.A summary of the contents of this volume can be found at folios 3-6. The volume mostly relates to:Reinforcements and supplies for Force D, including: food, materials, ammunition, river craft (especially hospital boats), hospitals, weapons, nurses, chemicals, animals, and tobaccoStaff: appointments, illnesses, salaries, and promotionsArrangements for moving the sick and wounded out of MesopotamiaPrisoners of warUpdates from the Tigris line, especially around Falahiyah [Fulayfilah] and Sannaiyat [As Sina‘yat], and particularly regarding the impact of weather and floodingUpdates from the Euphrates lineProposals to advance on Baghdad and to send a force to Bandar Abbas [Bandar-e ʻAbbas]Operations in the Caucasus regionStatus of German and Turkish [Ottoman] troops, particularly in Persia [Iran] and SyriaTelegraph lines and communicationsGeneral Charles Townshend’s comments on the earlier battle at Kut [Al-Kut]Discussions about deploying ‘Arab’ agents into Mesopotamia for political purposes (f 28)Information given to the press in England and IndiaActivities of Ibn Rashid of Shammar [Saʿūd bin ʿAbd al-ʿAzīz Āl Rashīd, Emir of Ha‘il]Intelligence concerning the Wali of Pusht-i-KuhDetails relating to Force D’s base at Basrah [Basra].The volume also includes:Appreciations from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia on 3 April (ff 24-25) and 10 April (ff 95-96)Distributions of Force D on 26 March (ff 59-63)Turkish distribution in Mesopotamia and the Turko-Persian frontier (f 108)Report by Lieutenant-Colonel Sydney Price James on the establishment of a Central Sanitary Section at Amarah, with comments by the Director, Medical Services, IEF “D” (ff 151-158)Memoranda and correspondence on delays to the River Conservancy Works in Mesopotamia (ff 159-170).The vast majority of material in the volume dates from April 1916, with the exception of a small amount of material which dates from February and March 1916.Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 177; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 8-175; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 August 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, memoranda, letters, and tables.An index to the contents of this volume can be found at folios 3-15 and a summary of the contents can be found at folio 16. The volume concerns:The supply of food, animals, construction materials, weapons, and other items to Force DRiver and railway traffic in MesopotamiaRailway construction in MesopotamiaArrivals to and departures from the port of BasraProblems with the unloading of ships at BasraProposal for the transfer of men from the Disciplinary Labour Corps into a free Labour CorpsDiscussion of British strategy in Mesopotamia, including current policy of securing control of the Baghdad Vilayet, and inability to take offensive action without Russian supportRecruitment of Arab prisoners of war in India ‘to serve the Sheriff [Sharīf] of Mecca’Intelligence concerning movements of Turkish [Ottoman], German, and Austrian unitsIntelligence concerning German construction of a railway ‘towards Mosul’Discussion of the creation of a French Consulate at BaghdadFinancial administration of Force D and the territory occupied by the British in MesopotamiaProposal for forming a new division of Force DIntelligence concerning Russian movements in the Caucasus and mutiny within the Russian armyIntelligence concerning Kurdish movements and attacks on Russian troopsShortage of medical officers.The volume also contains:Distribution and composition of Force D including details of lines of communication, commanding officers, and units captured at Kut-al-Amarah [Al-Kut] (ff 3-36)Distribution of Force D including details of lines of communication, 15 July 1917 (ff 123-127), 22 July 1917 (ff 216-220)Distribution of the Turkish Army, 7 August 1917 (ff 147-148), 14 August 1917 (ff 226-227)Detailed statement of ration strength of Force D on 30 June 1917 (ff 39-42), 7 July 1917 (ff 175-178)Ammunition held and used by Force D, 29 July 1917 (ff 42-43), 4 August 1917 (ff 123-124)Strength return of Force D dated 2 June 1917 (ff 45-61)Ration strength of Force D on 14 July 1917 (ff 67-69), 21 July 1917 (ff 152-154), 28 July 1917 (ff 234-236)Report of number of pilots and aircraft available for service in Mesopotamia, 2 August 1917 (ff 81-82), 9 August 1917 (f 179)Two diaries of information from 7 July 1917 (ff 90-107) and 21 July 1917 (ff 193-194) covering: climate and floods; local produce; Inland Water Transport; medical affairs; military government; the Directorate of Works; the YMCA in Baghdad; and the crash of a German planeWeekly return of sick and wounded for the week ending 14 July 1917 (f 114) and 21 July 1917 (ff 187-188).Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 242; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-240; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 15 and 28 February 1918. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, tables, memoranda, and letters.An index to the contents of this volume can be found at the start of IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3293. The volume concerns:Military personnel issues, including: recruitment, reinforcements, and promotionsThe supply of food, construction materials, oil, ordnance, and other items to Force DShortages of copper, brass, and iron in IndiaRiver and road traffic in MesopotamiaEvacuation of sick and wounded Force D soldiersAttitudes of the residents of Basrah [Basra] to British occupationApproval of a scheme to dredge Lake HammarBritish aerial bombardment of enemy camps near HitArrest of Sulaiman Mirza [Sulaymān Mīrzā] by British troops near Khanikin [Khanaqin]Movement of Turkish [Ottoman], Austrian, and German military unitsConversion of Mesopotamian river fleet and railways to use oil instead of coalProposal for Force D to adopt a ‘purely defensive role’ in Mesopotamia and support the British offensive in PalestineConstruction of telegraph lines and railways in Mesopotamia and Persia [Iran]Location and number of prisoners of war captured by the Russian ArmyMatters relating to Dunsterforce, including: departure of officers, soldiers, and motor vehicles from Baghdad to join Dunsterforce; retreat of Dunsterforce to Hamadan due to Bolshevik and Jangali [Jangalī] opposition; and proposals for British military action against the Jangali forces in GilanProposed occupation of key roads in Persia by British troopsNegotiations between British representatives and the Persian GovernmentEfforts by the British to ‘secure co-operation between Kurds and Armenians’ in PersiaReports of ‘disorders and small massacres’ between Muslims and Armenians in the Caucasus, and Armenian concerns about imminent ‘massacres on a large scale’.The volume also contains:Distribution and composition of Force D, including details of: lines of communication; and general organisation (ff 171-176)Strength return of Force D on 1 December 1917 (ff 136-142), 8 December 1917 (ff 145-151), 15 December 1917 (ff 206-213), 5 January 1918 (ff 6-8), 12 January 1918 (ff 16-18), 19 January 1918 (ff 48-50), 26 January 1918 (ff 155-156)Report of number of pilots, balloon officers, and aircraft available for service in Mesopotamia, 14 February 1918 (f 11), 21 February 1918 (f 97)Returns of sick and wounded dated 2 February 1918 (ff 19-20), 9 February 1918 (ff 83-84)State of supplies on 9 February 1918 (ff 20-22), 16 February 1918 (ff 76-77, 118-119), 23 February 1918 (ff 195-196)Ration strength of Force D, 12 January 1917 (ff 30-36), 19 January 1918 (ff 157-160), 26 January 1918 (ff 36-39), 2 February 1918 (ff 152-154)Distribution of the Turkish Army dated 19 February 1918 (ff 66-68), 26 February 1918 (ff 185-187)Distribution Report showing number and condition of motor vehicles with Force D, January 1 1918 (ff 108-117).Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 219; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-217; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33 cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 November 1917. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: Tables, telegrams, memoranda, and letters.An index to the contents of this volume can be found at folios 3-17. The volume concerns:Military personnel issues, including: recruitment, training, and promotionsThe supply of food, ordnance, oil, construction materials, and other items to Force DBritish ‘punitive actions’ against the ‘offending tribes’ of Al Abbas near Samawah [As Samawah] and Albu Jassim [Al Bu Jasim] near Bani Said [Bani Sa‘id]British raiding and aerial bombardment of villages in Mesopotamia, including Shirwan Sakhal [Shakal] and Kelar [Kalar]River traffic in MesopotamiaPreparations for a meeting between Lieutenant-Generals Jan Smuts, Edmund Allenby, and William Marshall in Egypt, to discuss the ongoing war against Turkey [Ottoman Empire]Matters relating to Dunsterforce, including: the selection of officers and NCOs to join Dunsterforce; the dispatch of an Armoured Car Unit; and the movements of Major-General Lionel DunstervilleRailway construction in MesopotamiaArrest of Sullaiman Mirza [Sulaymān Mīrzā] and Isa Mirza [‘Īsá Mīrzā] by British troops near Khanikin [Khanaqin]Intelligence concerning the activities of the Turkish [Ottoman] and German militariesA report on the military readiness of the 49th Bengal InfantryUnreliability of Bolshevik-influenced Russian troops in Persia [Iran]German propaganda campaigns in PersiaA proposal for British officers to take command of the Persian Cossack BrigadeMatters relating to the Caucasus, including: British attempts to create a local military force; British influence on the relationship between Armenians and ‘Tartars’ in the region; and problems caused by the ‘decidedly Bolshevik’ Russian fleet in the Caspian SeaCivil war in Russia.The volume also contains:Distribution and composition of Force D, including details of: lines of communication; general organisation; and names of General Officers and Brigade Commanders (ff 18-30)Distribution of the Turkish Army dated 12 February 1918 (ff 208-211)Report of number of pilots, balloon officers, and aircraft available for service in Mesopotamia, 31 January 1918 (f 39), 7 February 1917 (f 141)State of supplies on 26 January 1918 (ff 43-44), 2 February 1918 (f 120, f 142-143), 9 February 1918 (ff 232-233)Strength statements of Force D, 24 November 1917 (ff 48-61), 29 December 1917 (ff 107-108)Ration strength of Force D, 31 January 1918 (ff 72-73), 12 January 1918 (ff 84-86), 29 December 1917 (ff 87-90), 19 January (ff 177-180), 5 January 1918 (ff 195-198)Supply requests for Force D, dated February 1918 (ff 62-63), March 1918 (f 149)Returns of sick and wounded dated 2 February 1918 (f 72), 19 January 1918 (ff 76-77), 26 January 1918 (ff 159-160)Proposed War Establishment for an Indian Infantry Battalion (ff 173-177)Distribution Report showing number and condition of motor vehicles with Force D, 1 December 1917 (ff 218-231).Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 248; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-246; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 30 April 1918. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, letters, tables, and memoranda, containing instructions and reports.An index and synopsis of the contents of this volume can be found at IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3297. The volume covers many topics and events, but mostly relates to:Intelligence from the Caucasus Military Agency regarding the situation in the Caucasus regionDiscussions regarding an agricultural development scheme for Mesopotamia and a proposed Agricultural DirectorateDetails of personnel and supplies, including requirements, across multiple departmentsTurkish [Ottoman] forces: movements; proposed advance into Persia [Iran]; dispatched missions; locations; plans for Azirbaijan [Azerbaijan]; and distributions for the week ending 16 April (ff 36-38), week ending 23 April (ff 115-116), and week ending 30 April (ff 241-243)Discussions regarding the reorganisation of multiple units and directorates within Force DInformation from the Persian Government regarding the Vice-Consul at Resht [Rasht]Matters relating to the Dunsterforce, including: relations with Colonel Lazar Bicharakov’s [Bicherakov] forces; activities; movements; intelligence and reportsMatters relating to ports and railways traffic and constructionExchange and transport of personnel and supplies between Mesopotamia, India, and EgyptLists of sick and woundedInformation from the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf regarding the situation in NajafDetails of tonnage [amounts of cargo] transported on railways and shipsDaily operations reports from the General Officer Commanding, Force DDiscussions regarding aid and money to be offered to third parties across Mesopotamia, Persia, and the Caucasus regionMatters relating to prisoners of warRoyal Air Force reportsIntelligence and opinions from His Britannic Majesty’s Minister, Teheran [Tehran], regarding: situation in the Caucasus region; movements of Turkish troops; the Dunsterforce; British refugees at Baku; and the Russians and North PersiaGerman troops: movements; possible secret German-Persian arrangement; and plans for PersiaSending of armoured cars to PersiaStaff appointmentsInformation from enemy prisoners and deserters regarding negotiations with the South Caucasus Committee, and plans for North Persia and the CaucasusBritish capture of Kifri on 28 April.The volume also contains:Monthly distribution report of motor vehicles in service with Force D on 1 February (ff 5-30) and 1 March (ff 203-231)Report by T R J Ward, Inspector General of Irrigation, India, and G T Henderson, 14 March, on local resources (ff 56-61)Appreciations [reports] from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia and Persia on 21 April (ff 91-92) and 28 April (ff 186-187)Distribution of troops on 23 March (ff 126-135) and on 30 March (ff 155-165).Whilst the volume contains copies of earlier material dating from February 1918 onwards, the bulk of the material dates from April 1918.Physical description: The foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 245; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-243; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 May 1918. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, memoranda, and tables. An index to the contents of this volume and a summary of the contents can be found at folios 3-35.The volume concerns:Military personnel issues, including reinforcements, promotions, demobilization plans, and rewards for performanceSupply of food, construction materials, animals, ammunition, and other items to Force DArrivals to and departures from the port of BasraRiver and railway traffic in MesopotamiaRailway construction in MesopotamiaA report on the performance of the 49th Bengal InfantryProposals for ‘reducing expenditure’ on shipping between India and MesopotamiaDiscussion of British strategic priorities in MesopotamiaIntelligence concerning Turkish [Ottoman] military actions in the Caucasus and Persia [Iran]Matters relating to Dunsterforce, including the movements of Dunsterforce and the formation of an Armoured Car unitThe occupation of Kerkouk [Kirkuk] by Force DPursuit of Turkish forces following the capture of KerkoukForce D’s withdrawal from KerkoukThe occupation of Tauq [Tawuq]Matters relating to the British blockade of Najaf following the killing of a British officer, including the surrender of the town and the arrest of ‘mal-contents and ringleaders’Aerial bombing of camps near Fathah [Al Fathah], Erbil, and Altun Keupri [Altun Kupri].The volume also contains:Distribution and composition of Force D including details of lines of communication and commanding officers (ff 36- 49)Distribution of Force D including details of lines of communication, 6 April 1918 (ff 150-165), 13 April 1918 (ff 165-180), and 20 April 1918 (ff 328-339)Ammunition held and used by Force D, 26 April 1918 (f 52) and 3 May 1918 (ff 276-278)Ration strength of Force D on 30 March 1918 (ff 136-140), 13 April 1918 (ff 219-223), and 20 April 1918 (ff 342-345)Detailed statements of ration strength of Force D on 9 March 1918 (ff 141-147), 23 March 1918 (ff 205-210), 30 March 1918 (ff 244-250), and 6 April 1918 (ff 381-386)Strength returns of Force D dated 2 March 1918 (ff 61- 73), 9 March 1918 (ff 74-99), 16 March 1918 (ff 251-273), 23 March 1918 (ff 123-125), 6 April 1918 (ff 202-204), 13 April 1918 (ff 340-342), and 20 April 1918 (ff 147-149)Statement of Animal Transport held by Force D, dated 1 March 1918 (ff 101-111)Statement of Animal and Mechanical Transport held by Force D, dated 1 March 1918 (ff 300-311)Report of number of pilots and aircraft available for service in Mesopotamia, 2 May 1918 (f 127) and 9 May 1918 (f 352)Distribution of the Turkish Army, 7 May 1918 (ff 231-233) and 14 May 1918 (ff 408-409)War establishment for an Armoured Motor Car unit (ff 238-242)Weekly return of sick and wounded for the weeks ending 13 April 1918 (ff 288-290) and 20 April 1918 (ff 406-407)Names, designation letters, and classes of new battalions created by Force D (ff 295-296).Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 422; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-420; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 31 May 1918. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, memoranda, and tables.An index to the contents of this volume and a summary of the contents can be found in IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3299.The volume concerns:Military personnel issues, including reinforcements, recruitment, and leaveArrivals to and departures from the port of BasraRailway construction in MesopotamiaSupply of animals, food, tents, construction materials, vehicles, and other items to Force DBritish propaganda in MesopotamiaDiscussion of the potential for recruiting Assyrians and Nestorians in Persia [Iran] for military serviceMatters relating to Dunsterforce, including: Dunsterforce’s movements; recruitment of Persian levies; and operations to suppress anti-British forces in PersiaBritish interactions with Russian officers in Persia, including payment of money to maintain Russian troops, and attempts to prevent a Russian general returning to PersiaAerial bombardment of Fathah [Al Fathah] and Humr [Al Humr]The creation of a Directorate for Irrigation in MesopotamiaIntelligence concerning the movement of Turkish units in Mesopotamia and PersiaIntelligence concerning the arrival of German soldiers, vehicles, and weapons at Constantinople [Istanbul]Intelligence concerning Turkish and German intelligence operations, including the German role in inciting the ‘rebellion’ in NajafBritish financial support for pro-British Persian politiciansActivities of the South Persia RiflesDiscussions of British military strategy in the Middle East, including the shift in focus away from Mesopotamia and towards PersiaRailway traffic in MesopotamiaForce D’s withdrawal from Kerkouk [Kirkuk]A summary of recent bombing raids and aerial combat, written for the Press AssociationText of a speech given by General William Marshall in Baghdad to mark Empire Day (f 266).The volume also contains:Strength returns of Force D dated 30 March 1918 (ff 14-22, ff 45-66), 6 April 1918 (ff 89-102), 13 April 1918 (ff 236-246), 20 April 1918 (ff 23-24), and 27 April 1918 (ff 126-128)Distribution of Force D including details of lines of communication, 27 April 1918 (ff 141-150)Ration strength of Force D on 27 April 1918 (ff 67-69) and 4 May 1918 (ff 134-137)Detailed statements of ration strength of Force D on 13 April 1918 (ff 103-107) and 20 April 1918 (ff 179-183)Report of number of pilots and aircraft available for service in Mesopotamia, 16 May 1918 (ff 35-36), 23 May 1918 (f 154), and 30 May 1918 (f 274)Weekly return of sick and wounded for the week ending 27 April 1918 (f 84)Distribution of the Turkish Army, 21 May 1918 (ff 112-113) and 28 May 1918 (ff 215-223)Ammunition held and used by Force D, 17 May 1918 (ff 128-129) and 24 May (f 250)Lists of captured food supplies (ff 231-232).Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 279; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is also present in parallel between ff 3-277; these numbers are printed and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 16 and 31 July 1918. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, memoranda, tables, and letters, containing instructions and reports.An index to the contents of this volume can be found at IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3303. The volume covers many topics and events, but mostly relates to:Personnel and reinforcement requirements of Force D, especially plans to raise half a million combatantsMatters relating to staff: appointments, pay grades, training, and leaveCreation and re-organisation of different units within Force DMatters relating to railways constructionDetails of tonnage [amounts of cargo] transported on railways and riversIntelligence relating to Turkish [Ottoman] and German forces, including distributions of the Turkish forces on week ending 16 July (ff 8-17), week ending 23 July (ff 212-221), and week ending 30 July (ff 357-365)Progress and efficiency of the DunsterforceAdministration of personnel and supplies between Mesopotamia, Persia [Iran], and IndiaMatters relating to oil fields in Mesopotamia and Persia, especially regarding the Anglo-Persian Oil CompanyDiscussions of the different Russian armies and their potential impact on British operationsUpdates on events in: the Caucasus region; the Caspian Sea region, especially at Baku; and in Trans-Caspia [historic region in Central Asia]Updates from General Wilfrid Malleson in Meshed [Mashhad], including his communications with the Turkistan UnionMatters relating to the administration of British-occupied territory in Mesopotamia, including development of British tradeIntelligence on Turko-German relationsBritish relations with the Bakhtiari [Bakhtiyārī, also rendered as Bukhtiari in text] tribeLists of sick and wounded soldiersPrisoners of war and desertersMatters relating to wireless systems, including interception of Turkish and German communicationsIntelligence on and discussions about political situations in Georgia, Armenia, and AzerbaijanIntelligence on political and military activity at Constantinople [Istanbul]Action between British troops and Jangalis [Jangalīs] at Resht [Rasht].The volume also contains:Detailed statements of ration strength of Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force on 15 June (ff 21-25), 22 June (ff 224-229), and 29 June (ff 313-318)Statements showing strength of the different contingents serving with Force D as of 22 June (ff 40-42), 15 June (ff 243-256), and 29 June (ff 282-283)Monthly distribution report of motor vehicles in service with Force D on 1 June (ff 44-63)Strength of Force D in June (ff 64-87)Appreciations [reports] from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia and Persia on 22 July (ff 142-144) and on 29 July (ff 330-332)Proposals for a new establishment to be sanctioned for the railways in Mesopotamia by Brigadier-General Guy Lubbock, Director of Railways, Force D (ff 151-180), including data on railways and with comments from the General Officer Commanding, Force D (ff 150-151)Distribution of Force D troops on 22 June (ff 181-191), 29 June (ff 192-202), and 6 July (ff 333-344).Physical description: Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the first folio with 1 and terminates at the last folio with 373; these numbers are printed, and are located in the bottom centre of the recto side of each folio. The foliation sequence does not include the front and back covers, nor does it include the leading and ending flyleaves.Dimensions: 21 x 33cm
Abstract: The volume contains a chronological list of brief summaries of papers relating to the activities of the Indian Expeditionary Force D (also known as the Mesopotamia Expeditionary Force) between 1 and 15 July 1918. This is accompanied by appendices containing copies and extracts of these papers, which include: telegrams, tables, and letters, containing instructions and reports.An index to the contents of this volume can be found at folios 3-21. The volume covers many topics and events, but mostly relates to:Incident regarding the 49th Bengali regimentTurkish [Ottoman] troops: movements and activities; changes in command; status in the Caucasus region; and distribution on week ending 2 July (ff 94-103) and week ending 9 July (ff 197-205)Details of personnel and supplies, including requirements, across multiple departmentsDetails regarding road and railways constructionDetails of traffic and tonnage [amounts of cargo] transported on railways and shipsMatters relating to the exchange and transport of personnel and supplies between Mesopotamia, India, Egypt, and Persia [Iran]Reorganisation of units within Force D, including creation of new labour corps and proposals for the Machine Gun Corps CentreMatters relating to the Dunsterforce, including: supplies and personnel requirements; activities in northern Persia; intelligence and reports, especially on affairs at Baku and imminent attack on Resht [Rasht] by the Jangalis [Jangalī movement]Matters relating to staff, including: appointments, promotions, pay, leave, and trainingMatters relating to Persia, including: oil fields; relations with Persian Government and tribal leaders; discussions regarding action to be taken in north-western Persia; plans for Abadeh and impact on Dunsterforce; high use of resources; the East Persian Cordon [also referred to as 'E. P. Cordon']; and organisation of Persian Line of Communication unitStatus of various Russian factions in Turkestan and Caspian Sea regionsIntelligence regarding German troops, including: Turko-German relations; activities in Turkestan and Kabul; commanders; policy for eastern Azerbaijan; and status in the Caucasus regionLists of sick and woundedMatters relating to agriculture and farming in Mesopotamia, including reports in newspapers of famineRoyal Air Force reportsDiscussions regarding plans for Caspian and Caucasus regions, especially at BakuIntelligence from the British Military Attaché, Teheran [Tehran]Daily operations reports from the General Officer Commanding, Force DBrief discussions regarding demobilisation and a post-war garrison in MesopotamiaMatters relating to Colonel Lazar Bicharakov [Bicherakov]Prisoners of warDiscussions about expenditure and revenue from occupied territoriesGeneral Officer Commanding's suggested changes to the composition of headquarters of a corps and infantry brigade, following experiences in Mesopotamia.The volume also contains:Distribution of Force D, including details of the lines of communication administration, as well as names of General Officers and Brigade Commanders, as of 20 July (ff 22-42) and 15 June (ff 284-293)Report on irrigational agricultural development in Mesopotamia by T R J Ward, Inspector-General of Irrigation in India, 11 May (ff 49-72), including extracts of reports and notes supplied by: Ward; Colonel L W Lewis, Director of Irrigation; and Captain [Alan?] [Lewis?] Gordon-Walker, Revenue Officer, Basrah [Basra]Appreciations [reports] from the Directorate of Military Operations summarising the situation in Mesopotamia and Persia on 1 July (ff 82-84), 8 July (ff 177-179), and 15 July (ff 320-322)Appreciation by the Commander-in-Chief, India, of the present military situation in ‘the East’ [Salonika [Thessaloniki]; India; Palestine; Mesopotamia; Trans-Caucasia; Trans-Caspia; Turkestan; Persia; and Afghanistan], dated 4 July (ff 126-127)Statements showing strength of the different contingents serving with Force D as of 8 June (ff 145-147), 1 June (ff 222-235), and 15 June (ff 252-253)Monthly report on Government Military Dairies in Mesopotamia for month ending 31 May (ff 149-156)Detailed statements of ration strength of Mesopotamian Expeditionary Force on 1 June (ff 216-222), 8 June (ff 254-259)Monthly wastage [loss or destruction of animals] return for month ending 26 May (ff 276-279) and month ending 28 April (ff 280-283).The file contains a copy of the report (Appendix 264) of the Mesopotamian Transport Commission on the organisation and administration of river and railway transport in Mesopotamia, dating from February 1918 (ff 325-381). The report is split into six chapters:'General Description''Military Organisation for Control and Supervision of Transportation services''Tonnage Requirements and Capacity of Rivers and Railways''Detailed Consideration of Present Conditions''Future Developments''Conclusions and Recommendations'.The report also contains four appendices, covering: 'Inland Water Transport'; 'Railways'; 'Local Resources'; and 'Maps'. The latter appendix comprises two maps, which can be found at IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3303, f 380 and IOR/L/MIL/17/5/3303, f 381. The report and maps were originally kept in the pocket at folio 324 of the volume, but have been moved to a separate archival folder for conservation purposes.Trans-Caucasia, Trans-Caspia, and Turkestan are all historic regions within Central Asia.Whilst the volume contains copies of earlier material dating from December 1917 onwards, the bulk of the material dates from July 1918.Physical description: The foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover of the volume (ff 1-324) and terminates at the last folio of the file (ff 325-381); these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. Multiple additional mixed foliation/pagination sequences are also present; these numbers are printed.Dimensions of volume: 21 x 33cm