'Living under an alien despotism': the IRA campaign in Ulster.

The release of one hundred and fifty one Brigade Activity Report files marks a significant milestone for the important archival Military Service (1916–1923) Pensions Collection (MSPC). These files were compiled from 1935 to mid-1940s by Brigade Committees set up countrywide. In general, they contain a brief description of the operations undertaken or planned, names of those engaged, the units involved, the location and numbers of the enemy engaged and sometimes, the numbers and names of casualties on either side. These report provide a window into every parish and townland and thereby enhancing our understanding, and that of future generations, of the activities of those people whose courage and idealism inspired a nation during a defining period in Irish history. This publication provides the legislative framework, context and circumstances for the creation of the Brigade Activity Reports. It provides real insight into the challenges faced by the archivists while presenting documents that allow the reader to review the fascinating account of the support at a local level for maintaining a campaign during the period from 1916 up to 1923. The Military Service Pensions Archive project is a cornerstone project of the Government’s Decade of Centenaries 2012-2022 Commemorative programme. This project will serve as a permanent reminder of this commemorative period and will be a resource for future generations.