ABSTRACT
The term "way of war" has often been used to describe how armed forces of a particular nation prepare for and conduct warfare. This chapter presents an overview of the common and important ones that will help readers understand American military history. It explores "war and society" issues, particularly regarding the formation and development of United States military institutions and organizations. Rulers or governments might openly declare a war. If not, it begins when one side mobilizes armed forces, precipitating the other to do likewise, and produces combat actions. People describe wars in different ways. Some terms refer to the types of combat and combatants prevalent in certain conflicts. Other terms describe the reasons for a war, or the nature of the belligerents. Military forces can pursue many missions, including peacekeeping, nation-building, and humanitarian assistance functions. Military historians use various terms and concepts to discuss war.
