An Unpopular War is a raw and compelling collection of personal accounts from South African National Servicemen who served during the apartheid era, shedding light on the complex and often troubling experiences of those caught in the midst of the Border War. Through the voices of these men, J.H. Thompson captures the emotional and psychological impact of a conflict that many felt conflicted about, offering firsthand insights into the horrors and absurdities of the war.

With contributions from soldiers who faced the brutality of combat as well as the internal struggles of participating in a war many viewed as unjust, this book provides an honest and unflinching look at the human side of the South African military experience. Through terms like “Afkak” and “Bosbefok,” which encapsulate the madness and disillusionment felt by soldiers, Thompson paints a vivid portrait of a generation torn between duty, morality, and survival.

A powerful and thought-provoking read, An Unpopular War is a must-have for those interested in understanding the personal histories behind the larger political landscape of Southern Africa during a tumultuous period in its history.