These 8000 pages provide historical evidence for the origins and development of defensive capability in the Gulf States and the material reveals the early independence and strength of Saudi Arabia as distinct from the Gulf States. The documents, all taken from the British Government archives in London, examine local security issues in detail throughout the period, including facilities and arrangements during World War II. There is extensive information about the origins and development of local levy forces in Bahrain, Muscat and the Trucial States and about the emergence of independent armed strength in Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait. Information is included on the sources of military administration, institutions and traditions owed originally to British influence and the increasing power and influence of the USA.