Chancellorsville and Gettysburg-Abner Doubleday

Dive into the imaginative world of Little Wars, a captivating game designed for boys aged twelve to one hundred and fifty, and for the more discerning girls who enjoy traditionally boyish games and literature. This delightful account, penned by H.G. Wells in 1913, chronicles the transformation of childhood toys into a sophisticated pastime. With an appendix dedicated to Kriegspiel, Wells and his friends crafted a set of rules that infused play with a civilizing influence. Although wargaming has evolved significantly since then, Wells insights reveal how even these basic rules can highlight the absurdity of real warfare. He reflects on the sheer scale of the Great War, suggesting that it is not just the most costly game in existence, but one that far exceeds the bounds of reason. Through the lens of Little Wars, readers are invited to ponder the possibility of simulating conflict as a means of diplomatic resolution, while reveling in the joy of evicting the girls from the playroom and enjoying spirited battles that foster camaraderie and competition among gentlemen. (Summary by Mark F. Smith)