Distinctive Features:Relief shown by hachures.Title continues: ‘Zu C. Ritter’s Erdkunde, Buch III, West-Asien, Theil VIII, IX. Bearbeitet von H. Kiepert, herausgegeben von C. Ritter. Berlin, 1852 Verlag von D. Reimer’.Map of Iran showing territorial extent of the Ottoman, the Russian and the British sphere of influence in the region with borders outlined in colour and explained in a key in the bottom left-hand corner below title. Also shows the boundaries between provinces and various routes across the region.1 mapDimensions:462 x 490 mm, on sheet 478 x 584 mm
The volume contains lists of, and genealogical tables and biographies for, the notable families of Fars [Fārs] and Persian Officials at Shiraz [Shīrāz].The volume includes a 'Sketch Map of Boundaries of Districts of Fars', found in a pocket at the rear of the volume (folio 53).1 volume (52 folios)A table of contents can be found at folio 4.An index to the biographies arranged by name can be found at folios 45-48.An index to the biographies arranged by title (and some family names) can be found at folios 49-51.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 54; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. Pagination: the file also contains an original printed pagination sequence.
Distinctive Features:Relief shown by hachures.Routes indicated by dotted lines.Inscriptions:On the recto in the bottom right-hand corner signature ‘John Garstin Surveyor Genls. Office Fort William 1811’.Labels:On the recto in the lower centre black ink oval stamp ‘E.I. COMP’S LIBRARY’.1 map sheetMaterials:Pen and ink on paperDimensions:501 x 400 mm, on sheet 545 x 450 mm
The file contains correspondence between the Political Agent at Bahrain, the British Embassy at Tehran and the Adviser to the Government of Bahrain, concerning allegations of illegal trade between Bahrain and Iran by a merchant from Bushire, who was responsible for smuggling sugar, tea and opium into Bahrain, and who is believed to be employed by the Agency as an 'informer'.1 file (16 folios)The papers in the file are arranged chronologically. There are file notes at the end, on folios 15-17. The notes are arranged chronologically and refer to documents within the file.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 18; 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 present in parallel between ff 3-13; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled, and are located in the same position as the main sequence. A previous foliation sequence, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
Genre/Subject MatterThis pencil sketch on paper depicts a man reclining against a pillow on a chaise-longue while reading. It is drawn in the style of a caricature, which is in keeping with other figural sketches in this volume and, more broadly, in the related files Mss Eur F140/232 and Mss Eur F140/233, which, together with this volume, complete the trio of journals created by Jeffrey C. Amherst.The man depicted is likely Captain Chamberlain, who Amherst cites as being ‘in command’ of B & D Companies upon his arrival at Aden on 30 November 1870. He is wearing at least one brace and holding the papers he is reading above his torso.The latter part of the inscription – ‘Marshag’ – refers to Ras Marshag, a promontory to the south of the Crater, upon which a lighthouse (built in 1861 to facilitate the navigation of increasing numbers of steamers passing through) was situated as well as the quarters for a detachment of infantry.InscriptionsUpper left corner: ‘Capt C at Marshag May 22nd 71’Temporal ContextThe drawing was made during the period Amherst was based at Aden, between 30 November 1870 and 1871/1872; on 5 February 1871, Amherst notes that he was in command of D Company and that he was based at the Isthmus Position, where two companies of British and two companies of Native Infantry were regularly based according to an 1877 publication (F. M. Hunter, An Account of the British Settlement at Aden, (London: Trübner & Co., 1877)). It seems Amherst moved about frequently between Crater, Isthmus, Ras Marshag and elsewhere during his time at Aden.1 drawing; pencil on paper, pasted into volumeDimensions:107 x 182 mm [landscape]Materials:Pencil on paperCondition:The paper is slightly foxed, but otherwise in good condition with adhesive still sturdy.Foliation:The image has been assigned a sequential number, 4, which is written in pencil in the lower right corner of the page onto which the image is pasted.
The statement gives the following information for each tribe listed:Name of the tribeName of its ChiefIts place of headquartersNumber of subdivisionsPopulationAmount of tribute paid to Amir Faisul ibn Turki al-Sa'udNumber of horses procurable by each tribeRemarksThe remarks relate to the expectation that the Chief of each tribe would each year give horses to Amir Faisul. The amount of horses is determined by the number of Jama (subdivisions) the tribe had; in return the chief would receive clothes, weapons and dates from the Amir. A further remark notes that those tribes who pay no tribute are expected to protect the Nejd [Najd] frontiers and to go on any expeditions that the Amir wishes them to.1 folioThe folio has to be folded out in order to be read.
The interim amendments are comprised of a list of routes through Persia compiled by the mechanical transport (M T). For each route the start and end destinations are given along with following: the total distance; references to maps showing the route; general notes and a report which breaks down the route into smaller parts; details of the route's suitability in various weather conditions; surface, gradient, character of adjacent country; climate, local features, condition of the roads, and available facilities and supplies such as camping locations and water.The routes described in the amendments are:M T Route No. 8 Kangavar [Kangāvar] - Jokar [Jowkār] via Tuisarkan [Tūyserkān]M T Route No. 9 Kangavar [Kangāvar] to mile 272 on route IV C via Nehavend [Nahāvand]M T Route No. 11 Hamadan [Ostān-e Hamadān] - Senneh [Sanandaj]M T Route No. 11-A Qurveh [Qorveh] - Sunqur [Sonqor] and thence to join route 1-B near Sahneh [Şaḩneh]M T Route No. 14 Hamadan [Ostān-e Hamadān] to Zenjan [Zanjān] via Kabutarahang [Kabūdarāhang]M T Route No. 16 Rawan [Ravān] to Saveh [Sāveh] via Nubaran [Nowbarān]M T Route No. 17 Saveh [Sāveh] to Tehran [Tehrān]M T Route No. 17-A Saveh [Sāveh] to Qum [Qom] via Kardin [Kūh-e Kordīn] and Haveh Āveh]M T Route No. 17-B Saveh [Sāveh] to Qum [Qom] via Anjilavand [Anjīlāvand]M T Route No. 32 Ahwaz [Ahvaz] to Ganaweh [Gonāveh] via Behbehan [Behbahān]M T Route No. 33 Behbehan [Behbahān] to Kazerun [Kāzerūn]M T Route No. 34 Bushire [Būshehr] to Ganoweh [Gonāveh]M T Route No. 42 Khumain [Khomeyn] to Isfahan [Isfahan] via Gulpaigan [Golpāyegān]M T Route No. 45 Nain [Nā’īn] to Qum [Qom] via Ardistan [Ardestān]M T Route No. 51 Bushire [Būshehr] - Lingeh [Lengeh]M T Route No. 55 Lar - Lingeh [Lengeh]M T Route No. 61 Lingeh [Lengeh] - Bandar Abbas Bandar ‘Abbās]M T Route No. 92 Meshed [Mashhad] - Sarakhs [Sarakhs]M T Route No. 93 Dughai [Dowghā’ī]- Sultanabad [Solţānābād]M T Route No. 94 Imam Quli [Emām Qolī] (Mile 122 on Route VIII-C) to Lutfabad [Loţfābād]M T Route No. 95 Quchan [Qūchān] - Bandar Shah [Bandar-e Torkaman]M T Route No. 98 Shahrud [Shāhrūd] - Shahpasand [Shāh Pasand]M T Route No. 101 Tehran [Tehrān] to Semnan [Semnān] via Aiwani-i-Kaif [Eyvānekey] and Garmsar [Garmsār]M T Route No. 102 Route 101, Mile 28.2, to Tehran [Tehrān] via Jalilabad [Jalīlābād] and Veramin [Varāmīn]M T Route No. 103 Rudian [Rūdehen] to Amol [Āmol] via Ab Ali [Āb‘alī]M T Route No. 104 Babul [Bābol] to Mahmudabad [Maḩmūdābād] via Amul [Āmol]M T Route No. 105 Arablar [Arablyar] to Maku [Mākū]Routes 8, 11, 42 and 101 also include appendices detailing alternative options to the principal route described.1 file (48 folios)The amendments are arranged in numerical order according to route number.Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 48; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file contains correspondence and reports from the Government of India, External Department, the Foreign Office, the Secretary of State for India, the British Embassy at Tehran, the Minister of State in Cairo, the Ministry of Labour and National Service, and the British Consulates in Tabriz, Bandar Abbas, Zahidan [Zahedan, Iran], and Isfahan, on the subject of working conditions in Iran.The file also contains:a translation of the regulations drafted by the Iranian Ministry of Commerce & Industry (ff 95-97);details of arrangements for the welfare of workers, rates of pay, and cost of living figures for Iran in 1942;copies of the reports
Labour and industrial conditions in Farsand
Labour and trade union movements in Persia;extracts from
Iran,and
Journal de Tehran, in English and French.1 file (109 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the inside back cover with 109; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
Imprint:London, Trel. Saunders lith.Distinctive Features:Relief shown by hachures.Route of mission indicated in red line.Boundaries of provinces labelled and shown by pecked line.Original manuscript at IOR/X/3126/1.1 map sheetDimensions:193 x 945 mm, on sheet 317 x 994 mm
Imprint:London, Trel. Saunders lith.Distinctive Features:Relief shown by hachures.Route of mission shown in line.Boundaries of provinces labelled and indicated by pecked line.Inscriptions:On recto correction in pen and ink to a place name ‘Sir-i-Yezd’ reads: ‘alter i to e’. Amended in print to ‘Ser-i-Yezd’, copy with amendment at IOR/X/3126/3/1.Original manuscript at IOR/X/3126/1.1 map sheetDimensions:193 x 945 mm, on sheet 315 x 989 mm
Distinctive Features:Relief shown by hachures.Grid lines added in pencil between Kerman and Yezd (Yazd).Route of mission indicated in red line with sextan observations points shown by red dots. Boundaries of provinces coloured for reference.Reduced version of this map was lithographed and published in 1872 to accompany the Journal of Captain C. Bean Euan Smith. Printed copies at IOR/X/3126/3/1 and IOR/X/3126/3/2.Inscriptions:On recto across face of the map place names added in pencil.1 map sheetMaterials:Pen and ink with wash on paper with additions in pencilDimensions:656 x 2766 mm
Distinctive Features:Relief shown by hachures with grid lines added in pencil which do not feature on another copy of this map held at IOR/X/3122/1.Routes indicated by red lines.Places of interest including ruins, camps and mounds shown in red.Inscriptions:In the lower left-hand corner an annotation on the original map in red faded ink and partially illegible.1 map sheetMaterials:Pen and ink with grey wash on paperDimensions:735 x 1300 mm, on sheet 760 x 1300 mm
Distinctive Features:Relief shown by shading.Route indicated by dotted line.Inscriptions:Signed in the bottom right-hand corner ‘John Garstin Surveyor General. Surveys. Genls Office Fort Willm. 1811.’Labels:On the recto in the centre black ink oval stamp ‘E.I. COMP’S LIBRARY’.1 map sheetMaterials:Pen and ink on paperDimensions:262 x 368 mm, on sheet 325 x 430 mm
The account gives details of the route taken through Lingah [Bandar-e-Lengeh], Kishm [Qeshm] and Bunder Abbas [Bandar Abbas] , and provides geographic information on the areas travelled through, information on the peoples inhabiting the areas and information on local trades with particular focus on mining for Salt, Nahptha, Sulphur and Red Ochre.7 folios
Distinctive Features:Relief shown by hachures.Routes indicated by thin and dotted lines.Inscriptions:On the recto in the bottom right-hand corner signed by the Surveyor General and ‘C.G. Nicholls’ in the bottom left-hand corner below the neat line.1 map sheetMaterials:Pen and ink on paperDimensions:462 x 656 mm, on sheet 505 x 702 mm
Distinctive Features:Relief shown by hachures.Routes indicated in red.Inscriptions:On the recto in the bottom right-hand corner signature ‘John Garstin Colonel of Engr. Surveyor General Fort William 7th of January 1811’. 'Recd. 13th J'Labels:On the recto in the lower left below title black ink oval stamp ‘E.I. COMP’S LIBRARY’.1 map sheetMaterials:Pen and ink with wash on paperDimensions:460 x 479 mm, on sheet 662 x 684 mm
The statements were originally intended to form Appendix 12 of Colonel Pelly's Riyadh report No.57 dated 15 May 1866 and were produced following a request from the British Government for Pelly to go through William Gifford Palgrave's book and verify the truth, or otherwise, of accusations, assertions and claims made by Palgrave about the places he visited and people he met.The principal statements that Pelly addressed were as follows:That the native agent at Shargah [Sharjah], an Armenian named Hajee Yacoob, was encouraging the slave trade whilst operating as a representative of the British Government. This claim was refuted by Pelly firstly as Hajee Yacoob was a musselman, secondly as he had recovered more slaves than 'any other man in the Gulf' and thirdly as succesive residents considered him to be a most energetic and reliable man who was not as Palgrave supposed responsible for the suppression of slavery in Shargeh but was in fact the arbitrator of the maritime truce there.That Palgrave and his companion had travelled openly as Christians and been welcomed as such. Whereas Pelly had witness testimonies, including from his agent at Muscat, that Palgrave had disguised himself as a mussulman and used assumed names in order to travel and had even been seen worshipping in mosques.Claims as to the extent of the territories of Oman, that Bahrein and Qatar (amongst other places) paid tribute to Oman, that Said Saeed [Thuwaini bin Said] divided his territories up between his three sons in his will, alleged tensions between these sons and claims relating to Said Soulem [Salim II bin Thuwaini], son of Said Saeed, being a young boy. Several of these claims such as the extent of Oman's territories and the way in which they were divided up following Said Saeed's death were refuted through treaties and agreements that already existed such as Lord Canning's of 1861 which separated Muscat and Zanzibar, and a loan agreement of 1856 in which Persia agreed to lease some places to Oman. The remaining claims were refuted by Pelly's personal and detailed knowledge of Muscat and through Said Torki [Turki bin Said],son of Said Saeed who was a guest of Pelly's in Bushire at the time of his writing the responses to the statements, including that Said Soulem was actually a grown man, not a young boy, and had recently been accused of murdering his father,Also included in the file are a draft version of the statements and a copy of the witness statement of Mr Rozario, agent at Muscat, regarding Mr Palgrave passing himself off there as a mussulman called Aboo Mahmood and that he had observed him attending mosques and outwardly observing the fast.1 file (22 folios)Foliation: The file has been foliated in the front top right corner of each folio with a pencil number enclosed in a circle.
This volume was produced by the General Staff in India and was printed by the Government of India Press in Simla.The purpose of the volume was to provide Government of India officials with useful information about the Iranian Army. The information is arranged into subject chapters, the headings of which are listed in the contents pages (folios 6-7), and include: historical background, military geography, personnel, administration, artillery and uniform. There are two appendices which detail Iranian coinage, weights and measures (folio 28), and a list of aerodromes and landing grounds in Iran (folios 29-31). The volume also includes two illustrative plates which contain images of the ranks of shoulder straps worn by different officers (folio 32) and aircraft markings (folio 33). There is an index to the volume on folio 34.1 volume (68 folios)The contents of this volume are arranged by subject.Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 35; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.Pagination: the volume also contains an original printed pagination sequence.
The file consists of three issues of
Appreciation of the Conditions in the Bandar Abbas Consulate Area, for the periods 1 January-31 May 1945, 1 June-1 December 1945, and 1 January-30 June 1946. Each report is written by the British Consul at Bandar Abbas and distributed to the Foreign Office, various departments of the Government of India, and numerous military and political offices in the Middle East, including the Political Agency at Bahrain.The reports contain summarised information on the following local and regional matters:politics and administration;trade and industry;social and economic conditions;tribal affairs;internal security;British interests;Russian influence.1 file (14 folios)The file is arranged chronologically.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 16; 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 present in parallel between ff 1-15; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled, and are located in the same position as the main sequence.
The file comprises correspondence relating to British officials’ fears of the possibility of a German coup in Iran, and the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf’s (Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Geoffrey Prior) proposals for the evacuation of Bushire, should circumstance necessitate it. The file contains a letter from Prior to the Secretary to the Government of India, Olaf Kirkpatrick Kruuse Caroe, dated 31 May 1940, outlining his proposal to station a company of Indian Infantry at Bahrain, which can be moved to Bushire by Imperial Airways seaplane or by sloop at short notice (ff 4-6). The file also contains: a circular from the British Minister at Tehran, Reader William Bullard, to all British Consuls in Iran, dated 21 May 1940, informing them of the risk of German activity in Iran, and recommending the burning of ‘unostentatiously secret papers’ and the preparation of plans to burn cyphers and current confidential papers (f 7); Prior’s reply to Bullard’s circular, dated 23 May 1940, noting that there is only one German in Bushire town, that British position there is secure, and that he can send cars to Shiraz to assist in any evacuation there if required (f 9).1 file (10 folios)The file’s contents are arranged in approximate chronological order, from the earliest item at the front to the latest at the end. The file notes at the end of the file (f 12) mirror the chronological arrangement.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1 and terminates at the back cover with 13; 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 3-11; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled, and are located in the same position as the main sequence.
The file comprises correspondence and papers produced in response to Britain’s involvement in the Anglo-Soviet invasion of Iran, which began on 25 August 1941. The file’s principal correspondents are the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf (Lieutenant-Colonel Charles Geoffrey Prior), the Political Agent at Bahrain (Major Reginald George Evelin William Alban), and the Assistant Political Agent at Bahrain (Captain Roy Douglas Metcalfe).The file includes:information from the Political Resident to the Political Agents in the Gulf, dated 26 August 1941, on the response amongst the Persian community in Bahrain to events in Iran, with instruction to the Government of Bahrain that Persian schools in Bahrain should remain open (ff 2-4);instructions from the Political Resident to the Political Agents in the Gulf, dated 2 September 1941, to keep watch on dhows arriving from the Iranian coast, lest they be harbouring escaping Axis nationals or Iraqi/Palestinian rebels (ff 6-8). The Adviser to the Government of Bahrain (Charles Dalrymple Belgrave) reports that Iranian nationals were intercepted at Bahrain on a vessel coming from Qattar [Qatar] (ff 9-10). A subsequent report from the Political Resident, dated 24 September 1941, suggests that more than one hundred Germans are believed to have fled southwards from Tehran, some of whom may end up in the Persian Gulf (ff 21-24);a demi-official letter from the Assistant Political Agent at Bahrain to the Political Resident, dated 4 September 1941, related to an apparent relaxation of travel restrictions for Iranians in Bahrain, with a suggestion that there are ‘16,000 foreigners’ now in Bahrain (ff 12-13);a report from the Residency Agent at Sharjah of a letter containing anti-British sentiment posted on the gates of the market in Dubai, signed by ‘a number of sacrificing volunteers’. The report encloses draft and final English translations of the letter, as well as a transcribed copy of the Arabic (ff 15-18);a report from the British Consul at Bushire, dated 30 September 1941, of the declaration of martial law in Shiraz (f 25);a copy of the text of the Treaty of Alliance, with annexes, signed between Iran, the USSR and Britain on 29 January 1942 (ff 32-36);the file notes contain a list of detailed points discussed between the Assistant Political Agent and the Adviser to the Government of Bahrain on 26 September 1941, arising from the Anglo-Soviet invasion (arrest and surveillance of suspects; applications from Iranians for Bahrain nationality; imports and exports to/from Iran; export of currency; travel documents; mail; arms and ammunition) (ff 37-40).1 file (41 folios)The file’s contents are arranged in approximate chronological order, from the earliest item at the front to the latest at the end. The file notes at the end of the file (ff 37-42) mirror the chronological arrangement.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 43; 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 present in parallel between ff 2-36; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled, and are located in the same position as the main sequence. An additional mixed foliation/pagination sequence is also present in parallel between ff 37-42; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled.
The file contains correspondence, instructions and other papers relating to: troop numbers in Bahrain; troop movements through the Gulf into and out of Bahrain; military movements and military transportation in the wider region; Ministry of War Transport operations at Bahrain. Principal correspondents in the file are: the Political Agent in the Persian Gulf (Edward Birkbeck Wakefield; Major Tom Hickinbotham); the Defence Officer in the Persian Gulf (Major H T Hewitt); officers at PAIFORCE [Persia and Iraq Force] officials.The file includes:throughout, reports from numerous correspondents (including the Defence Officer at Bahrain, the Senior Naval Officer in the Persian Gulf, officials at Bombay, RAF [Royal Air Force] Shaibah) reporting specific troop movements, as well as military equipment and supplies, through Bahrain;details of the numbers and locations of military personnel based at Bahrain, submitted to the Political Agent at Bahrain by the Defence Officer in the Persian Gulf (ff 12-14, ff 21-22; ff 67-68), and movement of troops out of Bahrain, as the risk of enemy action there diminishes, with troops transferred to Abadan (ff 29-34);correspondence dated December 1944 relating to proposals to move troops by air between India and Britain, with Bahrain being a staging post, the expectation being that 1,500 military personnel would need to be accommodated at Bahrain at any given time (f 64).The file contains numerous instructions from PAIFORCE:Administrative Instruction No. 60, dated December 1943, relating to the anti-locust campaign in Saudi Arabia, 1943/44, and including details of: general outline of the campaign; responsibilities; order of battle; outline plan; provision of supplies; medical matters; post; pay and allowances; civilian labour and personnel (ff 37-42); subsequent amendments to Administrative Instruction No. 60 (f 55, f 57, f 62);Operation Instruction No. 12, dated November 1943, relating to the destruction of locust swarms in South Persia, and including details of: present locust situation; anti-locust organisation; co-operation from the RAF; locust control in Saudi Arabia and India; object of campaign; administration; intercommunication. Appendix A contains topographical information about the route between Baghdad and Bandar Abbas [Bandar-e ʻAbbās]. Appendix B is a wireless communications plan (ff 45-52);GHQ Movements and Transportation Working Instruction No. 77, dated February 1945 (ff 73-81), HQ (Mov & Tn [Movements and Transportation] PAIFORCE Working Instruction No. 79, dated May 1945 (ff 83-91), and Joint HQ (Mov & Tn) PAIFORCE and Air HQ Iraq and Persia Working Instruction No. 1, dated September 1945 (ff 95-103), with each subsequent instruction superseding the previous instruction, and containing details of: functions of the Movements and Transportation officers; imports and exports; personnel; air movements; BOAC [British Overseas Airways Corporation] services; RAF services; bookings; documentation; air freight; POL [petroleum, oil and lubricants] shipments.1 file (107 folios)The file’s contents are arranged in approximate chronological order, from the earliest item at the front to the latest at the end. The file notes at the end of the file (ff 105-108) mirror the chronological arrangement.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 109; 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 present in parallel between ff 3-30; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled, and are located in the same position as the main sequence. Two previous foliation sequences, which are also circled, have been superseded and therefore crossed out.
This file concerns Britain's relations with Persia (also referred to as Iran in some of the correspondence). It includes the following:cases of Persian customs authorities reportedly inhibiting (and in some cases preventing altogether) the passage of persons travelling between Persia and Kuwait, allegedly because of the Persian Government's claim that Kuwait is part of Persian territory;a copy of a non-aggression clause, written in 1930 and taken from a draft of a proposed treaty between Britain and Persia;copies of correspondence between the India Office and the Foreign Office regarding whether or not the rulers of Muscat, Bahrain, and Kuwait should cancel their respective existing proclamations that give Persian vessels rights to inspect Arab dhows outside Persian territorial waters;a copy of a draft of Iran's 1942 treaty of alliance with Britain and the Soviet Union;copies of correspondence dating from 1934 between the British Legation, Tehran, and the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs [Sir John Simon], regarding Britain's response to the Persian Government's refusal to recognise certain agreements between Britain and the Arab rulers of the Gulf, which give Britain the right to represent the latter in their foreign relations.Other subjects of correspondence include the anticipated revision in (1947) of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company's concession of 1933 and the presence of Iranian Airways in Kuwait.The principal correspondents are the following: the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf; the Political Agent, Kuwait; the Secretary of State for India; the British Legation, Tehran; the India Office; the Foreign Office; the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs; the Commonwealth Relations Office; the Ruler of Kuwait, Shaikh Ahmad al-Jabir as-Sabah [Shaikh Aḥmad al-Jābir Āl Ṣabāḥ].1 file (135 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the front to the rear of the file.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 137; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. Two previous foliation sequences, both of which are written in pencil (the set from ff 1-136 are circled, the set from ff 4-122 are not), have been superseded and therefore crossed out.
This file contains two items of correspondence that were sent from the British Legation in Tehran to a number of British diplomatic posts in the Persian Gulf including the Political Agency in Muscat. One relates to the resignation of the Persian Government in September 1933, the other to Iranian diplomatic representation in Saudi Arabia in 1935.1 file (5 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the front to the rear of the file.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 7; 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 present in parallel between ff 3-6; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled.
This file contains correspondence and documents concerning a number of different topics related to the Government of Iran as follows:Correspondence regarding a visit made to the Gulf by a Danish Fishing Vessel led by Dr. Harald Blegvad, Director of the Danish Biological Station. The visit was in the service of the Government of Iran in order to explore the potential for the establishment of pearl fisheries. In addition to correspondence, two maps of pearl banks in the Gulf are contained on folios 22 and 24 (folios 2-28)Correspondence about the expulsion of a number of Iranian nationals from Bahrain (folios 29-31)Text of the Treaty of Alliance between Iran, the USSR and Great Britain, 1942 (folios 32-37)Correspondence and documents concerning the Government of Iran's claim to sovereignty over Bahrain and details regarding the logistics of travelling between the two countries by their respective nationals (folios 38-46).1 file (45 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the front to the rear of the file.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 47; 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 present in parallel between ff 1-31; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled. A previous foliation sequence between ff 32-46, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
This file contains correspondence between British officials concerning reports of Iranian Government customs vessels 'interfering' with a number of vessels from Oman and Kuwait. In addition to correspondence that discusses these specific instances, the file also contains correspondence regarding the broader diplomatic and legal questions that were raised by them.The Arabic language material in the file consists of a letter sent to the Political Agency in Muscat by the Secretary of the Sultan of Oman and Muscat and an accompanying letter from an Omani trader whose cargo had been seized by an Iranian vessel (folios 68-69).In addition to correspondence the file contains copies of the following documents:'Notification by Shaikh Mubarak-Bin-Subah, Chief of Kuwait', May 1900 (folio 47)'Translation of Proclamation from Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifah, Chief of Bahrain, Dated 8th Zil Hijjah 1315 (30th April, 1898)' (folio 47)'Translation of Proclamation issued by the Sultan of Oman regarding the Suppression of the Illegal Importation of Arms into Persian and British India, 1898' (folio 48).1 file (80 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the front to the rear of the file.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 82; 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 present in parallel; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled. A previous foliation sequence, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
This file contains correspondence between British officials concerning requests made by the Persian Government to serve judicial notices on Muscat residents as a result of legal proceedings in Persian courts.1 file (13 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the front to the rear of the file.Foliation: the main foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 15; 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 present in parallel between ff 3-14; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled.
The statement contrasts the information provided for the years 1826 and 1831.1 folioThe item has been foliated in the front top right corner of the page with a pencil number enclosed in a circle.
The sketch map shows the rough boundaries and areas of responsibility of the seven principal groups of tribes and peoples living around the coast of the Gulf as given in Lewis Pelly's report No.67 of 13 April 1863.The map was lithographed in the Quarter Master General's Office in Poona, India on 02 June 1863.1 mapThe map has been foliated in the top right corner of the folio with a pencil number enclosed in a circle.
Order issued by the British Minister at Tehran, Charles Alison, instructing Pelly to return to India overland from Persia through Afghanistan.The letter instructs Pelly on the British Government's preferred route for him through Meshed [Mashhad], Herat and Cabul [Kabul], weather permitting, and encloses fowling pieces and pistols to be presented as gifts Sultan Ahmed Khan [Soltan Ahmad Khan] of Herat and correspondence and friendly assurances to be given on behalf of the British Government to Dost Mahomed Khan [Dost Mohammad Khan] of Cabul.The letter also instructs Pelly to gather reliable information on the Persian expedition to Mero [Marv], and in particular on the state of the Persian Army as well as asking for any practicable information he can obtain on the condition and prospects of Aghanistan as he is passing through it.Alongside the instructions for him when visiting Cabul is a paragraph written in pencil which appears to be a brief outline of the mission order translated into Persian.1 file (6 folios)Foliation: This file has been foliated in the front top right hand corner of each page 1-6, with the folio number in pencil enclosed in a circle
The papers relate primarily to the Royal Geographical Society who published Pelly's account of his journey to Riyadh and invited him to submit a talk to be read on his behalf at a Society event.There is also correspondence relating to the botanical specimens collected during the expedition and an article on Wahabism, the sect of Islam followed by the Najd tribes.1 file, 7 items (12 folios)This file has no discernible arrangementFoliation: The papers have been foliated in the front top right corner of each folio with a pencil number enclosed in a circle.
Political Department report No. 67 of 1863 from Lewis Pelly to the Chief Secretary to Government, Bombay, giving specific details based on his personal observation and hearsay concerning the tribes, trade and resources of the Gulf littoral which are divided into seven areas according to political administration. The report also includes statements of Imports and Exports for the region, a Sketch map and statements relating to the activities at Joasmee [Qasimi] Ports covering various dates ranging from 1826 to 1864.1 file, 5 items (40 folios)Foliation: File foliated in the front top right corner of each page with a pencil number enclosed in a circle.
Report from Pelly to the Chief Secretary to Government in the Political Department, Bombay, compiled in Bushire 13 April 1863.The report details the tribes, trade and resources of the Gulf Littoral which is divided into seven areas according to their political administration. The report also includes a list of detailed statements of imports and exports at Bushire.29 foliosItem foliated in the front top right hand corner of each folio with a pencil number enclosed in a circle.
Genre/Subject MatterThird of three journals covering Amherst’s service with his regiment and furloughs in India and Europe between 1867 and 1873.Watercolour, pen and ink and pencil drawings interspersed throughout the journal. There are four unidentified watercolour views loose in the album, the latest of which is dated 'April 1876'.There are a number of blank pages, especially at the end of the volume, as the journal finishes two-thirds of the way through on 25 April 1873.1 ‘Part of the village of Lamayuri from the Cashmere Rd. August 3rd 70’2 ‘Peculiar formation of rocks opposite Corbu August 3rd 1870’3 ‘Buddist idol near Skergol. August 4th’4 ‘Capt C. at Marshag. May 22nd 71’; pasted into volume5 ‘Aden – Oct. 22nd /71’; pasted into volume6 ‘Baxters mixture Dec’ 1’871 [
sic]’. ; pasted into volume; caricature7 ‘Bunter alias Fireworks Dec’ 1871’; pasted into volume; caricature8 Group of small drawings: one figure, one head and four profile/character studies, one sketch of a triangular sail9 View, possibly Alexandria10 ‘On the Mahmoudieh Canal Dec’ 28th /72’11 ‘My ride into Alexandria Dec’ 20th /72’12 ‘Our Arab Reis on board the Erin.’13 ‘Where we ran aground above Atfeh December 29th’14 Group of four small drawings: ‘On the bank of the Mahmoudieh Canal Dec’ 29th’; untitled [male figure from behind standing on the cargo of a loaded boat]; ‘Charlie A in pursuit of snipe’ and ‘Rosetta Jan. 1st /73’15 ‘Sunset on the Mahmoudieh Canal. Jan 3rd /73.’16 Group of seven small drawings of Egypt: ‘An ex-captain of the Eton eight on the Kayan Tantaras – Jan 14th’; ‘At the Opera Cairo Jan 7th’; ‘Jos nearly shoots another lynx Jan 18th’ [see below]; untitled [Arab man riding a donkey]; untitled [water fowl]; ‘Our consul – Jan 3rd’; untitled [Arab woman carrying a vessel on her head]; and the following account: ‘Jos’ account – “As I was walking home in the moonlight a large beast crept out of the bushes before me. I cornered him with my gun and was about to pull, when a second evidently terrified figure made its appearance &c &c &c”’17 ‘The false Pyramid from Whasta Jan 11th /73’18 ‘View from our camp at El Edwa, Fayoom’; table denoting game killed while at Ed Edwa19 ‘From under the Bal el Nasr. Cairo Feb 3rd’20 ‘Louley and Co’; pasted into volume; man seated next to donkey, inscribed ‘Tebiz 73’21 Street scene from below taking in mashrabiya in silhouette, possibly Cairo22 ‘In the straits of Messina March 31st’23 ‘In the Straits of Messena [
sic] March 31st’24 ‘SE Cape of Sicily from the Straits March 31st’25 ‘Stromboli March 31st’26 Group of three small drawings, respectively, one sketch of two figures, one portrait, one profile: ‘March 30th’; ‘Madame Veritas’; and ‘He would swing confound him March 29th’ 27 ‘Turin 21st April /73’ [unfinished drawing]28 ‘From my Garden – Algiers April 1876’; loose29 Unidentified landscape scene depicting vineyards, six figures at far right; loose[not numbered] Unidentified maritime scene: two boats at sunset, bell tower and other buildings in silhouette; loose[not numbered] Unidentified landscape at sunset; loose[not numbered] Unidentified watercolour sketch of cruciform gravestone, flowers; held within unsealed envelope, marked with monogram and address: ‘45, Rutland Gate, S.W.’; looseLabelsLetterpress affixed to inner rear endpaper:‘FromBowden & Co.314, Oxford Street,Corner of HarewoodPlace,London, W.’1 case bound, unpublished volume (unknown number of pages), illustrated with 49 watercolour, pencil and pen and ink drawingsThe volume has not been foliated throughout, however, the drawings have been numbered and the numbers noted refer to the sequence of drawings as they appear in this volume.DimensionsVolume: 21 x 17 cm
Copy of a letter regarding Pelly's expedition to Riyadh for which all correspondence and communications were for the secret department only, and his apprehensions about Dr Colvill accompanying him on the expedition.The letter goes on to give details of a journal and other correspondence which were offered to the Royal Geographical Society, and which also appeared in other reviews, which had been kept and recorded by Dr Colvill and sent to a correspondent in England, thereby violating the instruction that all matters relating to the expedition be considered secret and confidential.Also enclosed with the letter are:Copy of a memo of three letters from Colvill on the request of Mr Spottiswoode.Copy of a letter from Pelly to the St James Club, 14 August 1865, concerning Colvill's conduct.Copy of further notes by Pelly from the
Edinburgh ReviewNo.250 October 1865.Copy of a letter from Pelly to Colvill, 13 February 1865 concerning Colvill's conduct during Pelly's absence and asking him to refrain in future from giving any instructions. Also attached is a copy of a note of order given to Mr Lucas, Pelly's interpreter, by Colvill.Copy of a letter from Colvill of 13 February 1865 in response to Pelly's letter of same date, explaining his conduct.Copy of a letter from Pelly to Colvill 13 February 1865 in response to Colvill's letter of same date in which Pelly further clarifies his position and further reprimands Colvill.Copy of a letter from Colvill to Pelly, 14 February 1865 in response to Pelly's second letter of 13 February in which he expresses his regret for his conduct and requests to join Pelly on his forthcoming trip.Copy of a letter from Pelly to Colvill, 14 February 1865 in which Pelly permits Colvill to accompany him on his trip to Riyadh and instructs him to collect specimens of rocks and flowers.13 folios
Statement of the principal exports from Bushire to Bombay during the season 1862 to 1863 contrasted with that of 1863 to 1864, and the probable exports of the season 1864 to 1865 with explanatory remarks.The statement includes: cotton, opium, silk, wool-Arab, wool-Persian, gallnuts and horses.1 folioItem foliated in the front top right corner of the page with a pencil number enclosed in a circle.
Material includes extracts from a letter by Pelly regarding questions relative to the interior of Arabia discussed by the Royal Geographical Society 22 February and 14 March 1864 and the published copy of Pelly's full report of his visit to Lingah, Kishm [Qeshm] and Bunder Abbass [Bandar Abbas], with maps, which was read before the society 27 June 18643 items (10 folios)Items have been arranged within the file chronologically.Foliation: The contents of the file have been foliated in the front top right hand corner of each folio with a pencil number enclosed in a circle.
Handwritten report, in Lewis Pelly's handwriting about the history of the Shat el Arab [Shatt al Arab] watercourse from the point where it commences at the uniting of the Tigris and Euphrates rivers through to where it flows into the Persian Gulf.The reports goes on to describe the agriculture along the watercourse; the deserts beyond; and information about Basrah [Basra] including architectural descriptions and the ruined city of Zobeir [Zubayr].The report also includes accounts of attacks on the area by nomadic Bedouins who travel the area in winter searching for pastures; the development of a settlement, trade and a Government at Khote [Kuwait], including a description of Pelly's visit there en-route to Riadh [Riyadh]; and giving detailed descriptions of the Sheikh, conversations about Pelly's proposed trip and details of the hospitality Pelly received there.The report concludes by recounting a story told by Sheikh Sabba [Sabah II bin Jabir Al-Sabah] of two slave girls and their families' efforts to find and be reunited with them.The report itself is undated, but would have been written sometime after Lewis Pelly's trip to Riyadh which took place February to March 1865.40 folios
The account provides background on the various travels across South Eastern Asia undertaken by Pelly as part of his duties to the British Government, his hope that his account could help the society with their desire to determine 'with scientific accuracy' the position of Riadh [Riyadh], the Capital of Nuyd [Najd], and a full account of the route to Riadh and what he learned.2 folios
Two draft copies of a report written by Lewis Pelly of the coastline from Al Katif [Al Qatif] to Koweit [Kuwait] and his journey onwards from there to Riyath [Riyath]. The report contains names and descriptions of key geographic areas and features travelled through en-route.The contents of this draft report were included as part of Lewis Pelly's full report on his journey to Riyadh to meet with Amir Faysul [Faisal ibn Turki al-Sa'ud].Both draft copies contain crossings out and corrections.7 folios
Incomplete memorandum, written in pencil, regarding the tribute that Amir Faisaul ibn Turki al Sa'ud of the Wahabees [Wahhabi] pays to the Porte and the revenues he receives both in terms of money and horses as well as in military aid.The memorandum also refers to agreements with other tribes who can travel unmolested through Nejd [Najd] territory.The verso of folio 74 contains the first line of a memorandum regarding writing to someone.The memorandum itself is undated, however the information contained within it would have been acquired by Lewis Pelly during his visit to Riyadh, February to March 1865.2 folios
The file contains a decipher telegram from the Government of India, External Affairs Department, to the Secretary of State for India regarding trade opportunities and the desirability of a war trade agreement with Iran. The telegram also refers to concerns over Iranian exports to Germany, and trade relations between Germany and Russia.1 file (1 folio)Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 3; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
This file contains papers relating to the domestic political situation in Iran during 1949, and its international repercussions. In particular the papers discuss Perso-Soviet relations and Anglo-American fears of Soviet involvement with the Tudeh party in Iran. The papers also discuss various other matters, including the seven year economic development plan proposed by the Persian government, United Nations security council negotiations, embassy closures, and international radio propaganda from the Soviet Union. The papers are almost all diplomatic cables and dispatches forwarded between British legations in Tehran, Washington, and the Foreign Office in London.1 file (128 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 130; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
This file consists primarily of letters, telegrams and reports regarding the Anglo Persian Charitable Relief Committee to Iran.The file contains two reports entitled 'Anglo-Iranian relief fund.' These reports list the cities that received aid from the fund and the amounts. The file contains another pair of reports entitled 'Publicity Given to the Working of the Anglo-Iranian Relief Fund during January to March 31st 1943.' These reports describe the actions the fund have took to alleviate poverty in Iran as reported on by the
Daily News, the Tehran English newspaper. Finally, the file contains letters from the Foreign Office regarding whether or not to contribute £10,000 to the Anglo-Iranian Charitable Relief Commitee.1 file (32 folios)The file's contents are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 34; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file contains reports, predominantly in the form of telegrams, by British diplomatic and consular staff on political and social developments in Persia; the content of the reports reflect British Government interests during the Iran-Azerbaijan Crisis of 1946. The reports cover developments within the Central Government, developments in the provinces, and the activities of the Democratic Party and the Tudeh Party. This includes accounts of meetings held by the British and United States Ambassadors – John Le Rougetel and George V Allen – with Ahmad Qavam (Prime Minister and Leader of the Democratic Party) and the Shah – Mohammed Reza Pahlavi. The file also covers strikes and labour disputes, with those affecting the operations of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company being particularly predominant.The strikes of oil workers in Agha Jari and Abadan in July 1946 are covered in the reports, as is a threatened revolt by the Bakhtiari and Kashgai tribes. Reports from the British Ambassador to the Soviet Union (Sir Maurice Drummond Peterson) cover Soviet press reporting of developments in Persia. A small amount of content is in French.The file includes a divider which gives a list of correspondence references contained in the file by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.1 file (596 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the inside front cover with 1, and terminates at the last folio with 597; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
This file contains papers that discuss Anglo-American perspectives on domestic Iranian politics during 1948, in the run-up to the Iranian Constituent Assembly election of 1949. The majority of the papers are secret diplomatic dispatches between various British diplomats based in Washington, London, and Tehran. The papers variously discuss the domestic situation in Iran, possible constitutional changes, elections, and their international repercussions. Notable are discussions of possible soviet involvement, and the Tudeh Party's relationship with the Soviet Union.1 file (175 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) 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.
The papers in this file relate to ‘Security Organisation in Persia [Iran]’.The papers include: The deputation of an officer from the Combined Intelligence Centre Iraq (CICI) to Tehran with cover as Assistant Military Attaché, charged with collating the records of Persians and other nationals suspected of working in Axis interests, with a view to arranging with the Persian Government for their incarceration, 14 October-7 November 1941; a proposal that the CICI include Persia in its sphere of operations, 13 October-7 November 1941; the reservations of Ambassador Reader Bullard about the deputation of a CICI officer, and proposed deputation of one from India to deal with Indian suspects in Persia, 18 October-3 November 1941; the views of the Commander-in-Chief India and Commander-in-Chief Middle East on the establishment of a security and intelligence organisation in Persia under the CICI, involving a security officer at Tehran, and assistant liaison officers at Khurramabad and Sanandaj, 7-26 November 1941; the proposals of the Commander-in-Chief India on censorship in Iraq and Persia, 16 November 1941; the proposed establishment of a commission to examine all suspects, 22-29 December 1941; the preference for a policy based on collaboration rather than repression, 29 December 1941-9 January 1942; the deportation of Axis agents to the British zone in southern Persia, 22 April-24 August 1942; the agreement of the Iraqi Government to promptly alert HM representatives or consular officers in Persia and Turkey on receiving any transit visa applications, 25 June 1942; the demand of Persian Prime Minister Ahmad Qavam for any evidence against the suspects, 9 August 1942; the proposals of the Minister of State Cairo for the arrest and interrogation of suspects, 11 August 1942; and the negotiations of Bullard with prime ministers Qavam and Ali Suhayli, 29 August 1942-30 October 1943.The file includes two dividers, which give a list of correspondence references contained in the file by year. These are placed at the back of the correspondence.1 file (158 folios)The papers are arranged in chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 160, these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
Copy of a letter dated 23 December 1865 concerning Dr Colvill's breach of privacy in relation to the publicity of their trip to Riyadh earlier that year. Pelly asks Colvill to submit to government an explanation of his conduct.A second letter dated 27 December 1865 is also enclosed in which Colvill responds directly to Pelly denying having directly or indirectly written to any newspaper, review or scientific society concerning their trip to Riyadh and requesting that Pelly inform him of what has been written or said.2 folios
Copy of a letter in which Pelly accuses Dr Colvill of evading his questioning and requests that Colvill meet him at 2 p.m. to review the letters purported to have been written by him and to look at the passage from the
Edinburgh Review.Enclosed with the letter are notes on the meeting between Pelly and Colvill, dated 27 December 1865 which took place at the Residency in Bushire.2 foliosThe letter with enclosures has been foliated in the top right corner of each page as 21-22
Mr Weller requests that Pelly mark the places mentioned in his article on the map, encloses additional prints of the map which Pelly had requested and informs Pelly of the intention to also include a map of Arabia to show places mentioned by Pelly that are outside of the route the main map covers2 folios
Letter from Daniel Oliver, Keeper of the Kew Herbarium, to Pelly regarding the examples of Arabian Plants Pelly had sent to them and Pelly's request for a list of the specimens he sent.2 folios
Letter informing Pelly that Dr Colvill's journal would not be published by the Royal Geographical Society and reassuring Pelly that Dr. Colvill had not sent the journal to the society himself, and most likely had not had any intention of making it public.2 folios
Letter from Joseph Dalton Hooker, Director of the Royal Botanical Gadens at Kew regarding samples of Arabian plants which Pelly had collected on his travels to Riadh [Riyadh], some of which were of considerable interest2 folios
Letter requesting that Lewis Pelly submit a detailed account of all he saw, heard and did in the course of his visit to Riadh [Riyadh] for the Governor-General in Council as requested as it had not yet been received.2 folios
Letter forwarding some correspondence between the Political Agent, Muscat and the Sultan of Muscat (Thuwaini bin Said Al-Said) for Pelly's information and requesting a report from him on his opinion of the differences between the Sultans of Muscat and the Wahabees [Wahhabi] (Faisal ibn Turki al Sa'ud).The letter also informs Pelly that he may offer to act as a mediator between the two parties but that he should make it clear to the Sultan of Muscat that the British Government has no intention of interfering in the matter.The letter also contains a note by Lewis Pelly dated 9 January 1865.1 folio
Printed memorandum recording the request from the Secretary to the Government of India for a full account of Pelly's visit to Riad [Riyadh] and giving the Government of Bombay resolution that the instruction should be forwarded to Pelly with a request that he comply with it as soon as possible.2 folios
Letter asking if Pelly might consider permitting him to join the expedition and offering his drawing and sketching abilities as a service for it.1 folio
Letter providing Pelly with detailed information on how the Chronometer was prepared for the journey to Riyadh and how it was only six and a half miles out from their exact location at the end of the journey, and observing how wonderfully small the margin was considering the rough nature of its travels.1 folio
Letter accepting Dawes's offer, on the condition of Captain Warner granting permission for Dawes to accompany him and informing him what equipment he would need to bring and when he would need to be ready to leave.1 folio
Letter informing Johnstone that although he cannot officially invite him to join the expedition to Riyath [Riyadh], he could come to Koweit [Kuwait] and then join them.The letter also advises Johnstone that Pelly is at that time unaware what his travel arrangements to Riyath will be, whether he will be able to take his staff, or what method of travel they may take.1 folio
Letter informing Johnstone that he would not be able to take him to Riyath [Riyadh] and that he may have to travel very lightly or alone in order to make the journey.1 folio
Letter written in English and translated into Arabic regarding Pelly's expectation that on arriving in Koweit [Kuwait] he would be greeted by Amir Faysul [Amir Faisul ibn Turki al Sa'ud] and his disappointment on finding that he was not there.The letter goes on to request either a reply to this letter, or a person sent to accompany him to Riadh [Riyadh].1 folio
Letter instructing Captain Warner to hand over mail on arrival at Bushire to the Uncovenanted Assistant Resident (James Charles Edwards) and to remain there until 5 March 1865 when he should travel to Bahrain and communicate with Ajair [Al Uqayr] to see if any letters have arrived there from Pelly in the interior of Nejd [Najd], and then await Pelly's arrval at Bahrein before sending a craft to Ajair creek on 18 March 1865 to collect him.The letter goes on to provide details of arrangements for caring for his horses, and to thank him for loaning him Lieutenant Edwin Dawes for his journey and for the instruments which will enable him to take observations and bearings en route to Riyadh.2 folios
Draft letter to the Political Department, Bombay in continuation of his letter of 21 January 1865 (folios twenty to twenty-one). giving further information on the particulars of the dispute between Muscat and the Wahabees [Wahhabi] and confirming the information he has already provided in the previous letter.Pelly also queries the instructions issued to him by Government which appear to disagree with the treaties signed by the Sultan of Muscat in 1798 and 1864 and informing the Government that peace has been restored following the Sultan of Muscat's decision to pay off the Wahabee's.2 folios
Letter in response to No. 3933 of 1864 (folio nineteen) reporting on the differences, as Pelly sees them, between the Sultan of Muskat [Muscat] (Thuwaini bin Said) and the Sultan of the Wahabees [Wahhabi] (Faisal ibn Turki Al-Sa'ud].The letter also outlines what Pelly believes to be the full story behind the dispute between the two peoples and the potential impact he believes the various outcomes and actions could have on the whole of the Persian Gulf region.2 folios
Letter requesting that Ahmed accompany Captain Warner on the Residency Steamer to Bahrein [Bahrain], and on arrival communicate with the Sheikh [Muhammad bin Khalifah Al-Khalifah], including handing him an enclosed letter in Arabic.The letter goes on to instruct that Ahmed use his stay in Bahrein to gather information, with names of places, rivers etc, on the adjacent mainland to Bahrain and the province of Nejd [Najd] and to write a report on his findings, as well as collecting information on Pearl Fishing in the area.The second half of the letter (on the recto of folio eleven) has been crossed through and a pencil letter, possibly intended as a replacement for the crossed through section, has been given on the verso of folio eleven:Pencil letter regarding Pelly's expected date of arrival from the interior of Nejd and making arrangements to travel to Bahrein, including requesting either horses, donkeys or ponies from Shaikh Ali bin Khalifah Al-Khalifah and instructing him to inform the villagers of his intended visit.On the verso of folio twelve is a letter in Arabic, which is most likely the enclosed letter for Shaikh Muhammad bin Khalifah Al'Khalifah, referred to in Pelly's letter. On the recto of folio eleven is an Arabic ink stamp seal.2 folios
Letter informing Pelly that the Government of Bombay concurs with his opinions on the differences betwen the Sultan of Muscat and the Sultan of the Wahabees [Wahhabi] and informing him that he may communicate personally with the Sultan of Muscat on the matter en route to Bombay.1 folio
Letter in Arabic, with an English translation on the verso, of a letter from Faysul ibn Torky Al Saood [Faisal ibn Turki Al Sa-ud] sent 2 Ramathan [Ramadhan] 1281 (29 or 30 January 1865) and received by Lewis Pelly 7 February 1865 informing Pelly that he may come on to Riyadh from 'the Sirkar' and that he will be treated with hospitality along the way.The Arabic letter contains an ink seal, most likely belonging to Amir Faisal.A draft copy of the translation to the letter, with corrections, is given on folio eight. This letter is a reply to the letter at folio two.2 foliosThe paper contains a watermark.
Letter requesting a copy of his demi-official letter to Sir Bartle Frere on proceedings in Russia to be ready on his return to Bushire; regarding the accounts of the Residency Library; and making correspondence arrangements including details of who to write to him via in Koweit [Kuwait] and what to do with mail received for him in his absence.1 folio
Letter regarding Pelly's departure for Riyath [Riyadh] and providing sailing instructions for Captain Henry W Warner.The letter goes on to provide detailed instructions regarding the cleaning of his rooms in preparation for his return and on the packaging of some pistols which are gifts from the Government of Bombay.The letter also refers to some enclosed letters (no longer there) which need to be produced as fair copies for Bombay and requests additional copies for his own information if there is time.Parts of this letter are very similar to the first few paragraphs of the letter at folio 10.2 foliosCondition: The top of both folios has some minor damage caused by insects.
Letter making arrangements for any mail addressed to Pelly to accompany Captain Henry W Warner to Bahrain, and requesting two sowars and mounds of barley and grain.The letter goes on to request that his rooms are cleaned thoroughly during his absence and that Hajee [Haji] Ahmed translate various papers relating to Bahrain; makes arrangements for the care of a little horse that was being sent to Bushire by steamer; and re-affirms the arrangements for sending and receiving mail.1 folio
Letter, in Arabic and English, informing Pelly that the bearer of the letter, Abdool Assis Ben Assass [Abdul Aziz bin Aziz], will be his guide into the interior of Nejd if Pelly is still willing to employ him.1 folio
This file contains papers relating to the tribal situation in Kurdistan in 1933, and an alleged increase in Kurdish nationalist feeling in 1940 in Iraq and Iran. The main correspondents are Alan Charles Trott (Military Attaché in Tehran) in 1933, and Reader William Bullard (HM Minister at Tehran) and Basil Cochrane Newton (British Ambassador at Baghdad) in 1940.1 file (7 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 9; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file contains a telegram from the Ministry of Economic Warfare addressed to Sir Reader Bullard, the British Ambassador of Tehran, including related correspondence regarding the use an incorrect telegram code. The telegram refers to a proposed future purchase of wool in Iran.1 file (5 folios)Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 7; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file contains a letter from HM Consul General in Khorasan, Meshed (Giles Frederick Squire) to the Secretary of the Government of India External Affairs Department. The letter discusses and includes a report from HM Vice Consul, Zabul concerning his meeting with the Sarder [Sardir] Muhammad Amin Khan Nauroi of Seistan [Sistan]. The report covers the Sarder’s offer to lead a rebellion in Seistan, Afghanistan against the Iranian Government, a request for clarification on his position should he, his family and followers move to Baluchistan, Afghanistan and the Vice Consul’s response to said offer. The report includes an appendix detailing the background and structure of the Nauroi Sarabandi Sarders, and the Nauroi tribe.The file also contains related correspondence including a letter from William Rupert Hay, Deputy Secretary to the Government of India, to the Vice Consul expressing concern over his response and reservations over the Sarder’s motivations. A specific concern is raised regarding a perceived distinction the Vice Consul made in his response, between the Government of India and HM Government, and a letter in reply from HM Consul General addresses and refutes this concern.A subsequent letter from HM Consul General to the Secretary to the Government of India External Affairs Department, Simla, suggests that the Sarder and his followers plan to leave Iran for India soon.1 file (9 folios)Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 11; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file details the Government of India’s financial and administrative responsibilities towards the Persian Gulf. The text is divided into sections: ‘Iran’ (folio 2), ‘Persian Gulf’ (folios 2 to 3), ‘The Air Route’ (folio 3), ‘Oil’ (folios 3 to 4) and ‘Defence Measures’ (folios 3 to 5).The papers provide information on the Government of India’s past and current responsibilities and relations with Iran. Also discussed are concerns over a potential Russian advance through Afghanistan and Persian-German relations which in part are attributed to the reign of Reza Shah [Shah of Iran, Pahlavi dynasty].The significance of the Persian Gulf as a strategic and commercial air route to India, and as a source of oil, now and in the future is discussed. Further highlighted is the responsibility of the Foreign Office and other departments to conduct relations with the Arab states of Kuwait, Bahrein, Qatar, the Trucial Coast and Muscat, and the implementation of wartime defence methods in the region.1 file (4 folios)Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 6; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
This file contains correspondence between British officials relating to a rumour that American citizens had been advised by their Consuls to leave Iran, as the American Consulate would not be responsible for their safety after November 1939.The main correspondents are the Central Intelligence Officer, Karachi, the Government of India External Affairs Department, and the British Legation, Tehran.1 file (3 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 5; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file contains correspondence and papers concerning expenditure on diplomatic and consular services in Iran and the Persian Gulf from 1936 to 1940.It includes correspondence between the India Office and the following: the Foreign Office; the Treasury; the Government of India, External Affairs Department; and the Governor General of India. It also includes: statements comparing the expenditure incurred by the Government of India on diplomatic and consular services in Iran for a particular year with that of the previous year, for the years 1936 to 1939; and statements of expenditure incurred on the Koweit [Kuwait] Agency during the years 1936 to 1940.1 file (117 folios)The papers are arranged in reverse chronological order from the front to the rear of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 117; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file comprises telegrams, despatches, correspondence, memoranda, and notes, relating to mines and mining concessions in Persia.Correspondence discusses German mining ventures in relation to nickel, copper and gold deposits in Anarek and contracts between the Government of Iran and German companies.The discussion in the volume also relates to the approval and ratification of a contact signed between the Iranian Ministry of Industry and Mines, and a Dutch company, Algemeine Exploratic Masstaschappij [exploration company], to prospect and exploit mineral wealth, including oil and red oxide. Further discussion surrounds the delimitation of the concession area in a northern and a southern part. Included in the file (folio 24) is a map of the two concession areas and also the text (ff 18-23) of the agreement (in French) from
Le Journal de Tehran.The file features the following principal correspondents: HM Minister, Tehran (Sir Reader William Bullard); the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Anthony Eden); and the Senior Naval Officer, Persian Gulf.1 file (31 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence for this description (used for referencing commences at the inside front cover with 1, and terminates at f 35, as it is part of a larger physical volume; these numbers are written in pencil, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. An additional foliation sequence is present in parallel between ff 4-35; these numbers are also written in pencil, but are not circled.
The file contains correspondence regarding the deportation of three Polish men (Oligierd Stolyho, Adam Backer and Josef Bekerman), one Lithuanian man (Bronistew Bogussewier), one Ukrainian man (Iwan Basileffsk) and one Russian woman (Tatiana Chinnova) from the Persian Border to British Indian territory at the beginning of the Second World War.The main correspondence is between:• the Government of India, External Affairs Department to Tehran• the Secretary of State for India• the Senior Assistant Director, Intelligence, Government of India, Quetta• the Director, Intelligence Bureau (Home Department), Government of India, Simla• the Secretary to the Agent to the Governor-General in Baluchistan, Ziarat• the Polish Consulate General in India• the Additional Deputy Secretary to the Government of India in the External Affairs DepartmentDetailed are the British Indian Government’s concerns regarding national security leading to the arrest and detention of the group. Attributed to this is a belief that Bekerman is German and Jewish, and conflicting reports from Vernon Smith, an American woman who came in contact with the refugees. Also detailed is the Polish Consulate General in India’s wish to facilitate their release, and his assessment of their legitimacy once they had arrived in Bombay, India.Included are statements from the five men; preliminary (folios 3 to 7) and revised (folios 9 to 15) following alleged inconsistencies in the former, and a statement from Chinnova (folios 19 to 21). These contain personal information and include the motivations and circumstances which led to their arrival at the Persian border, and a description of items in their possession.1 file (52 folios)Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 54; 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 present in parallel between ff 3-49; these numbers are also written in pencil, and are not circled.
Distinctive Features:This is a photograph of the original manuscript which is held at IOR/X/3126/1. Reduced version of this map was lithographed and published in 1872 to accompany the Journal of Captain C. Bean Euan Smith. Printed copies at IOR/X/3126/3/1 and IOR/X/3126/3/2.Relief shown by hachures.Route of mission indicated in line with sextan observations points shown by dots. Boundaries of provinces coloured for reference on the original map.Inscriptions:Legends and annotations concerning the place names obscured via the reproduction process.On recto place names illegible or obscured through the reproduction process added in ink and pencil.1 map sheetMaterials:Photographic print with additions in pen and ink and pencilDimensions:260 x 968 mm
Genre/Subject MatterThese two small watercolour drawings depict scenes taken from life at the Settlement of Aden in 1871. Both drawings focus on Arabs’ use of camels as a form of transport.In the left-hand drawing, four veiled women perch alongside one another atop a litter held in place on the back of a light-haired camel. All four women are obscured in blue robes; the woman on the right has an uncovered face, while only the eyes of the other three women are visible.A tall, slender man wearing only a blue loincloth and turban leads the camel by a tether attached to a harness about its muzzle. He holds what appears to be a walking stick or cane in his right hand.The right-hand image shows an Arab man standing balanced on the neck of a dark-haired camel. He is wearing a turban and loincloth, which is held together by a belt that also holds a
janbiyain place. Both the material of the turban and loincloth are blue with red detailing and have been rendered very delicately in order to illustrate this. The man wears an object at his side, held there by a strap that crosses his torso. He whirls a whip above his head. Behind him, balanced on the camel’s saddle is a long-barrelled rifle; it has been decorated in black and white concentric stripes.Both drawings are stylistically in keeping with other sketches of ‘natives’ in this volume and in the related files Mss Eur F140/232 and Mss Eur F140/233, which, together with this volume, complete the trio of journals created by Jeffrey C. Amherst.InscriptionsLower left corner: ‘Aden – Oct 22nd /71’Temporal ContextThe drawing was made during the period Amherst was based at Aden, between 30 November 1870 and 1871/1872. It is likely to have been sketched from life either at or near the Isthmus Position, where two companies of British and two companies of Native Infantry were regularly based, according to an 1877 publication (F. M. Hunter,
An Account of the British Settlement at Aden, (London: Trübner & Co., 1877)) and where Amherst was attending a musketry course between 18–28 October 1871. Amherst moved about frequently between Crater, Isthmus, Ras Marshag and elsewhere during his time at Aden.2 drawings; watercolour and pencil on paper, pasted into volumeDimensions:108 x 180 mm [landscape]Materials:Pencil on paperCondition:The paper is slightly foxed, with light surface residue but otherwise in good condition with adhesive still sturdy.Foliation:The images have been assigned a sequential number, 5, which is written in pencil in the lower right corner of the page onto which the image is pasted.
Correspondence and papers relating to a request made in January 1937 by the Iranian Government to the British Government, for maps of Iran from the Survey of India, currently marked as being for official use only. Much of the correspondence is between the Foreign Office and India Office/Government of India, and discusses: precedents to the request (specifically, a request for Survey of India maps from the Afghan Government in 1936); the Government of India’s refusal of the Iranian Government’s request in August 1937, due to the continued military importance of the maps in question; a long delay in responding to the Iranian Government’s request, which remained unanswered until November 1938.The file includes a divider, which gives a list of correspondence references contained in the file by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.1 file (28 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 30; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file concerns the supply by the Government of India of railway material to the Government of Iran. The supply of such material was seen by the British Government as a means of influencing certain minor powers in the Middle East in favour of the British on the outbreak of war [the Second World War, 1939-45]. Supplying the material was viewed as being easier for the Government of India than HM Government in the United Kingdom.The file contains correspondence from the Government of India External Affairs Department, and the Government of India Department of Supply.The papers show that the Government of India were prepared to supply Iran with 102,000 tons of rails with accessories.The file includes a divider, which gives a list of correspondence references contained in the file by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.1 file (21 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 23; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
Communications from HM Ambassador to Tehran and HM Ambassador to Iraq, reporting on the signing and ratification of the Treaty and Protocol of Frontiers (4 July 1937), the Treaty of Friendship and Arbitration (18 July 1937), and the Treaty for the Settlement of Differences by Peaceful Means (24 July 1937). Copies of the Treaty of Friendship, and the Iraqi ratification law, can be found at folios 25-27 and 21-22. The file also contains a record of a conversation between HM Military Attaché Tehran (Colonel Pybus) and the Iraqi Minister for Foreign Affairs (Dr Naji el-Asil), plus correspondence with the Government of India External Affairs Department regarding the supply of copies of the Frontière Turco-Persan Cartes Supplémentaires to the Government of Iraq.The file contains a divider which gives a list of correspondence references contained in the file by year. This is placed at the end of the correspondence (folio 1).1 file (37 folios)The papers are arranged in rough chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 37; these numbers are written in pencil and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file concerns the transfer of the Political Residency in the Persian Gulf from Bushire to Bahrain.The file is composed solely of internal correspondence between British officials including Central Public Works Department (A Croad), India Office officials (John Charles Walton, R Peel, E P Donaldson), Secretary of State for India and Burma (Frederick Pethick Lawrence), External Affairs Department of the Government of India (W R Hay, Aubrey Metcalfe), the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf (Geoffrey Prior), the Foreign Office (C W Baxter, George William Rendel, Ernest Bevin, Orme Sargent, J T Henderson), the Political Agent at Bahrain (Hugh Weightman), HM Treasury, the British Ministry at Tehran (Reader William Bullard), the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, the Colonial Office.The correspondence relates specifically to the following:discussion on the design of the new Residency building at Bahrainproposed Residency site on Muharraq Islandviews against the transfer from HM Ministry at Tehran and the Political Resident in the Persian Gulf, Foreign Office's decision to go aheadTreaty of Alliance between the United Kingdom and the Soviet Union and Iran (ff 302-304)withdrawal from Bushireadministration of the Arab states in the Persian Gulf.1 file (402 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the last folio with 406; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file contains papers relating to the Iraqi armed forces, mostly concerning the introduction of conscription in Iraq under a system of National Service. The file also includes papers regarding the military policy of the Government of Iraq, and the concern of the chief of the Iraqi General Staff about the possibility of an attack on Iraq by Iran.The papers mainly consist of correspondence between HM Embassy at Baghdad (Sir Francis Henry Humphrys, George Arthur Ogilvie-Forbes, Sir Archibald Clark Kerr, Sir Charles Harold Bateman), and the Foreign Office (Sir John Simon, Sir Samuel Hoare, Anthony Eden), copies of which were sent to the Under Secretary of State for India. The file also includes India Office Political Department minute papers.In addition, the file includes a copy letter from the Chancery of HM Embassy, Baghdad, to the Political Agency at Kuwait (with a copy of the Kuwait Intelligence Summary for the period from 1 to 15 April 1939), and a letter from Trenchard Craven William Fowle, Political Resident in the Persian Gulf, Bushire, to Roland Tennyson Peel of the India Office, regarding the moving of the Basra Garrison to Zubair.The file includes a divider, which gives lists of correspondence references contained in the file by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.1 file (51 folios)The papers are arranged in chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 55; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
The file contains papers relating to permits issued by HM Consular Officers in Iran to British Indians.The correspondence is mostly between the Government of India External Affairs Department, and correspondents including the Consul General for Iran in India, and HM Envoy Extraordinary and Minister Plenipotentiary at the Court of Iran in Tehran.The file includes a divider, which gives a list of correspondence references contained in the file by year. This is placed at the back of the correspondence.1 file (12 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 14; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
Copies of intelligence summaries prepared on a weekly basis by the Military Attaché at the British Legation in Tehran, and received by the India Office via the Foreign Office. The file’s contents follow on chronologically from Coll 28/97(1) ‘Persia. Diaries. Tehran Intelligence Summaries.’ (IOR/L/PS/12/3503). The summaries cover a broad range of information relating to wartime conditions in Iran: the activities of the Iranian government, including political instabilities, the resignation and appointment of governments and government ministers; the financial situation in Iran, including the reappointment in 1942 and subsequent economic policies of Arthur Chester Millspaugh, who was recruited to organise the government’s finances; internal security in Iran, including increasing political unrest in the north of the country (specifically in Azerbaijan) brought about by a growing Soviet presence, wartime propaganda, and the activities of the Tudeh Party of Iran; concerns over wheat production and supply, including reports of food shortages and famine conditions in 1942/43; the Iran military, including its movements, activities and appointments; foreign interests (primarily USA, British, and Soviet); reports of the numbers of Polish refugees in camps in Tehran, Isfahan and Ahwaz [Ahvāz].The file contains a single item in French, being a copy of the declaration of the Congrès National d’Azerbaidjan (Nation Congress of Azerbaijan, f 359).1 file (373 folios)The file’s contents are arranged in approximate chronological order, from the front to the rear of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 375; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
Typewritten and printed copies of weekly intelligence summaries, submitted by the Military Attaché at the British Embassy in Tehran. The reports cover: the affairs and activities of the Persian [Iranian] Government and the majlis, including statements, communiqués and declarations made by the Persian Prime Minister, Qawam us-Saltaneh [Qavām os-Saltaneh]; internal security in Iran and its various provinces, with a particular focus on the political unrest in Azerbaijan, in the wake of the Soviet army’s refusal to withdraw from Azerbaijan, and pro-Soviet sentiment in the region; Persian government appointments; the Persian army; reports in the Persian press, with a particular focus on the expression of anti-British sentiment in some publications; foreign interests in Persia, chiefly relating to Britain, the Soviet Union, and the United States of America; notes on prominent Persian personalities.1 file (144 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the front to the rear of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 146; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
Correspondence and papers relating to the Persian Government’s decision in 1935 to change the name of the country from Persia to Iran, and of the changes throughout the 1930s to the names of numerous provinces, towns and cities across the country. The papers include: translated copies of memoranda from the Persian Government’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, announcing various name changes (some of which include place names written in Persian); correspondence amongst British officials over the implications of the changes, particularly that of Persia to Iran, for British interests such as the Anglo-Persian Oil Company; British Government instructions to replace Persia for Iran in maps and correspondence; the use of the term ‘Iranian Gulf’ in place of ‘Persian Gulf’ by some organisations, and instruction from British officials that the term ‘Persian Gulf’ should be reinstated; notification of name changes sent by the Foreign Office to the Permanent Committee on Geographical Names (care of the Royal Geographical Society).1 file (155 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the inside front cover with 1, and terminates at the last folio with 156; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. A previous foliation sequence, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
Papers and correspondence dated 1946 concerning the transfer of Colonel Geoffrey Edleston Wheeler from the Department of Information and Arts in the Government of India, to the post of Press Counsellor at the Public Relations Bureau at the British Embassy in Tehran. The transfer was arranged between Government of India and Foreign Office officials in response to the political crisis in Iran, arising from the Tudeh Party’s increased influence in the affairs of the Iranian Government.The file also contains subsequent correspondence dated 1947-1948 that concerns Wheeler’s position in Tehran in the wake of the dissolution of the Indian Political Service on 15 August 1947. The file’s correspondents include: HM’s Ambassador in Tehran, John Haller Le Rougetel; the Foreign Office; Colonel Geoffrey Edleston Wheeler.1 file (48 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 50; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. A previous foliation sequence, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
Papers relating to strikes and social unrest amongst workers on the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company’s (AIOC) oilfields in southern Iran (frequently referred to as Persia throughout the file), and the AIOC refinery at Abadan. The file’s principal correspondents include: the British Ambassador at Tehran, John Haller Le Rougetel; the Counsellor for Indian Affairs at the British Embassy in Tehran, Clarmont Percival Skrine; the Foreign Office.The file covers: initial reports of unrest at Abadan in May 1946; the Tudeh Party of Iran’s perceived involvement in fomenting unrest amongst AIOC employees; unrest amongst Indian AIOC employees, and discussion amongst British officials over plans to repatriate perceived ringleaders back to India; the despatch of Indian troops to Shaiba [Shu‘aybah] in Iraq, that could be deployed to quell social unrest in southern Iran if required; accounts of events on 14 July 1946, in which violent clashes occurred between socialist activists associated with the Tudeh Party who supported AIOC workers, and representatives of the Arab Tribal Union; a facsimile of an account of the events 14 July 1946 written by Vere William Digby Willoughby, British Consul at Khorramshahr (ff 214-249); a report on working and living conditions for Indian AIOC employees, submitted by the Indian Press Officer attached to the British Embassy in Tehran (ff 170-181); a report entitled ‘Social and municipal development carried out by the Anglo-Iranian Company, Limited, in Abadan and the south Persian oilfields’, submitted by the AIOC Chairman, William Fraser (ff 143-162); a report on AIOC labour conditions in Iran, submitted by K J Hird, Labour Attaché at the British Embassy in Tehran, dated 31 December 1946 (ff 87-101); the withdrawal of Indian troops from Shaiba in April 1947, in response to a stabilisation of the political situation in Iran; quarterly reports on affairs at AIOC, prepared by HM Consul-General at Khorramshahr, describing worker morale, potentially subversive activities, social improvements for workers, etc.1 file (555 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 557; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. A previous foliation sequence, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.
The file is a direct chronological continuation of Coll 28/85S (1) ‘Persia. Abadan and S. W. Persian oilfields; Protection of British interests.’ (IOR/L/PS/12/3490A). It consists chiefly of extracts of quarterly reports, prepared by HM Consul-General at Khorramshahr, on affairs at the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company (AIOC), and extracts from the Khorramshahr Consulate Diary. The reports concern working conditions and unrest amongst Indian and Pakistani employees at AIOC, and subversive activities amongst AIOC employees. Reference is made in several reports to the activities of the Rashtraya Sevak Sangh group at the AIOC (also referred to as the Hindu Communal Army [Rāṣṭrīya Svayamsēvaka Saṅgha]). Some of the reports in the file are marked top secret.1 file (31 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file. The file notes at the front of the file (ff 2-5) are arranged chronologically in the reverse order.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 33; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio.
Secret papers and correspondence concerning the British Government’s response to the potential threat of Soviet Communist penetration in Persia [Iran] and a perceived increase in influence of the Tudeh Party within the Persian Government. The political crisis was triggered by events at the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company’s refinery at Abadan in July 1946, covered in full in Coll 28/85S (1) ‘Persia. Abadan and S. W. Persian oilfields; Protection of British interests.’ (IOR/L/PS/12/3490A).The papers include: an appreciation of the political situation in Persia, along with recommendations for British propaganda activities to counter the Soviet threat, prepared by HM Ambassador at Tehran, John Haller Le Rougetel; a response to Le Rougetel’s recommendations, prepared by the Assistant Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Robert George Howe; a further response to Le Rougetel’s recommendations from the Foreign Secretary to the Government of India, Hugh Weightman; instructions sent by Le Rougtel to British consular officials in Persia, in response to events at Abadan.1 file (40 folios)The papers are arranged in approximate chronological order from the rear to the front of the file.Foliation: the foliation sequence (used for referencing) commences at the front cover with 1, and terminates at the inside back cover with 42; these numbers are written in pencil, are circled, and are located in the top right corner of the recto side of each folio. A previous foliation sequence, which is also circled, has been superseded and therefore crossed out.