In 1913, staff captains of artillery in the British Army were re-styled as brigade majors to bring them into line with cavalry and infantry practice.
In the 21st century, the title is no longer used except in the Household Division and in divisional-level artillery headquarters.
[1] During World War I, the brigade major was reportedly "a key personality who affected the health and happiness of the battalions.
"[2] He was in most frequent contact with the front-line troops and was responsible for planning brigade operations.
The position was a standard fixture in the British Army and Canadian Army until between 1982 and 1984 when the NATO system was adopted and brigade G-3 (Operations), also known as "Chief of Staff", replaced the brigade major.