This handbook was originally prepared by the Historical Section of the Foreign Office for the British delegates to the Peace Conference following World War I. It provides convenient information on the geography, political history, and social conditions of British Somaliland and the island of Sokotra. The "Political History" section includes a chronological summary of major events from 1840 to 1915.

The book outlines the origin of the Protectorate, starting with the capture of Aden in 1839 and the subsequent treaties with Somali sultans to ensure the safety of the main sea route to India. It details the transition of administration from the Government of Bombay to the Foreign Office in 1898 and the wars against the Mullah that dominated the early twentieth century.

The work also includes a section on the island of Sokotra, describing its history from ancient times as a center of piracy to its eventual status as a British protectorate in 1886. It offers suggestions for the economic development of the region, specifically mentioning prospects for the cultivation of coffee and date palms.