How to make war

First published in 1982 by William Morrow & Company, How to Make War was written by James F. Dunnigan, a prominent figure in the professional wargaming community. Created during the height of the Cold War, the book was intended to demystify military science for the general public, providing a comprehensive guide to the tactics, equipment, and logistics that define modern combat. Its emergence reflected a growing societal interest in strategic analysis during the nuclear era, bridging the gap between academic military theory and the accessible style of popular reference works.

Dunnigan utilized his expertise as a game designer and military analyst to structure the book as a pragmatic, analytical handbook rather than a historical narrative. By deconstructing the mechanisms of warfare into accessible chapters on weapons systems and force structures, he aimed to offer readers a rigorous look at how armies function. The work was well-received for its clear-eyed, technical approach, and it became a foundational text for enthusiasts of military history and strategy, remaining a relevant reference point for understanding the logistical realities of armed conflict.