International Federation of Wargamers

The International Federation of Wargamers (IFW) was founded by Gary Gygax, Bill Speer, and Scott Duncan in 1966 [ [http://www.wizards.com/dnd/DnDArchives_History.asp History of TSR @ Wizards of the Coast] ] [ [http://www.womengamers.com/interviews/garygygax.php Interview with Gary Gygax @ WomenGamers.com] In this interview, Gygax places the founding of the IFW in 1963.] . Originally named the "United States Continental Army Command" [Strategy & Tactics, Issue #33, p.24] , the organization served as an umbrella for local wargaming clubs such as the Lake Geneva Tactical Studies Association and the Midwest Military Simulation Association. The IFW was divided into chapters with specialized interests, such as the Castle & Crusade Society, which promoted medieval wargaming, and the "Armored Operations Society", which emphasized World War II wargaming.

By publishing a magazine (called "The Spartan" in 1969 and later called "The International Wargamer") and sponsoring the early Gen Cons, the IFW helped wargamers share ideas and meet wargamers from different parts of the country. The IFW ceased functioning around 1974.

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