It is often referred to as the most important series ever-generated by the “Division Administrative”, a branch of the “Section d’Etat” within the Prime ministry. Its importance is due to its volume estimated at about 155 linear metres, its richness, and the variety of its records. Such records, covering the different fields of activity, shed light on the various administrative mechanics and services operating under the French Protectorate.

Series “E” files were properly arranged following the central administrations criterion. This classification was meant to reflect the existing relationship between the above-mentioned administrations and the central political power, beginning with the Secretariat General of Government and the responsible structures in fields of security, finance, agriculture, commerce and industry, public works, housing, public health, education, fine arts, mail etc.

It is well possible to use these records to examine a quite important question, yet uninvestigated, that is the history of the administrative institutions themselves in the contemporary period.
It is a hard task, indeed, to go through all the subjects covered by series “E” records. However, it is quite rare to come across a study, dealing with the history of Tunisia between 1881-1956, whose writer made no use of at least one part of series “E” records.

In spite of its intricacy and evolution, the administration proved well capable of controlling and managing different economic, social and cultural etc… sectors. Civil servants and their activities made the object of several changes during the Protectorate era. This was also characteristic of the relation established, then, between the resident population, Tunisians in particular, and the French administration within a context of colonial domination based upon the use of a developed administrative system. Such aspects could also form important subjects for study and investigation using series “E” records.