Introduction: The purpose of the Civil Affairs handbook was (1) to assist the Commanding General of the combat units by quickly establishing those orderly conditions which will contribute most effectively to the conduct of military operations, (2) to reduce to a minimum the human suffering and the material damage resulting from disorder and (3) to create the conditions which will make it possible for civil government to function effectively. The Civil Affairs handbooks are designed to assist officers in the performance of their tasks. Originally published in 1943.