Are you a history enthusiast? Do you love diving into the past and uncovering the stories that shaped our world? If so, you’re in for a treat! We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about the history that will take you on a captivating journey through time. From ancient civilizations to pivotal moments in modern history, these books are a must-read for anyone looking to expand their knowledge and gain a deeper understanding of the world we live in. So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up in your favorite reading spot, and let these incredible history books transport you to different eras and cultures.
Contents
- 1 Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
- 2 The Silk Roads: A New History of the World
- 3 Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies
- 4 The Wright Brothers
- 5 The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England
- 6 The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich
- 7 The Swerve: How the World Became Modern
- 8 The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer
- 9 The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration
- 10 The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America
- 11 The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
- 12 The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon
- 13 The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt’s New World
- 14 The Gene: An Intimate History
- 15 The Age of Wonder: How the Romantic Generation Discovered the Beauty and Terror of Science
- 16 The Secret History of Wonder Woman
- 17 The Wright Brothers
- 18 The Black Count: Glory, Revolution, Betrayal, and the Real Count of Monte Cristo
- 19 The Lost City of the Monkey God: A True Story
- 20 The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women
- 21 Conclusion
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind
by Yuval Noah Harari
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari is not just any ordinary book on the history of our species. It is a captivating journey that takes us through the fascinating story of Homo sapiens, from our humble beginnings to the present day. This extraordinary book about the history of humankind delves deep into the origins and development of our species, exploring how we became the dominant species on Earth and the impact we have had on the planet and its other inhabitants.
The Silk Roads: A New History of the World
by Peter Frankopan
The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan is not just any history book. It is a captivating journey through time, transporting readers to the heart of the ancient world. This remarkable book on the history of the Silk Roads is like a treasure map, uncovering the hidden stories and forgotten civilizations that shaped our world today.
Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies
by Jared Diamond
Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond is a remarkable book on the history of human civilizations. Diamond ingeniously unveils the intricate web of factors that shaped the destiny of societies throughout time. Through a captivating narrative, he delves into the profound impact of guns, germs, and steel on the course of human history.
The Wright Brothers
by David McCullough
The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
The Wright Brothers
Are you fascinated by the wonders of aviation? Do you love reading about the pioneers who defied gravity and changed the world forever? Look no further, because “The Wright Brothers” by David McCullough is the perfect book for you!
This captivating piece of literature is not just any history book; it is a riveting account of the remarkable journey undertaken by two brothers from Dayton, Ohio, who dared to dream of conquering the skies.
David McCullough, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, delves deep into the lives of Orville and Wilbur Wright, unveiling the untold stories behind their incredible achievements. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, McCullough brings the Wright brothers to life, painting a vivid picture of their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering determination.
Discover the challenges they faced as they tirelessly pursued their vision, from their early days of tinkering with bicycles to their groundbreaking experiments with gliders. The brothers’ relentless pursuit of flight led them to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, where they would ultimately make history.
Meticulously researched and beautifully written, this book about the history of flight will transport you back in time, allowing you to witness firsthand the extraordinary lives of these two aviation pioneers. McCullough’s attention to detail and his ability to make history come alive will leave you inspired and in awe of the Wright brothers’ groundbreaking achievements.
So, if you are ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through the annals of aviation history, “The Wright Brothers” by David McCullough is the perfect book to satisfy your curiosity. Prepare to be captivated by this enthralling tale of innovation, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of a dream.
The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England
by Dan Jones
The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England is an enthralling book on the history of one of England’s most powerful and influential dynasties. Written by acclaimed historian Dan Jones, this captivating book about the history of the Plantagenets takes readers on a gripping journey through the tumultuous and fascinating world of medieval England.
The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich
by William L. Shirer
The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich by William L. Shirer is an extraordinary book on the history of one of the most infamous regimes in human history. With meticulous research and a captivating narrative, Shirer takes us through the dark and twisted journey of Adolf Hitler and his Nazi Party, chronicling their rise to power and eventual downfall.
The Swerve: How the World Became Modern
by Stephen Greenblatt
The Swerve: How the World Became Modern by Stephen Greenblatt is a fascinating book about the history of ideas that shaped the modern world. This captivating book on the history explores the story of a book, a lost epic poem by the ancient Roman poet Lucretius, and its rediscovery in the 15th century.
The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer
by Siddhartha Mukherjee
The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer by Siddhartha Mukherjee is not just your average book on the history of cancer. It is a captivating journey through time, an eye-opening exploration into the depths of this formidable disease. Mukherjee’s masterpiece is not merely a book about the history of cancer, but rather, it is the history book that unveils the secrets and complexities of this relentless adversary.
The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration
by Isabel Wilkerson
The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration by Isabel Wilkerson is not just any book on the history of the United States. It is a groundbreaking masterpiece that delves deep into the lives of those who paved the way for social change. Wilkerson’s brilliant storytelling takes you on a journey through time, as she uncovers the untold stories of African Americans who escaped the shackles of oppression in the South.
This remarkable book about the history of the Great Migration sheds light on a pivotal period in American history, where millions of African Americans sought refuge from the harsh realities of racism and discrimination. Through meticulous research and captivating narratives, Wilkerson weaves together the lives of three individuals who embarked on different paths to freedom.
With vivid detail and powerful prose, Wilkerson paints a vivid picture of the challenges and triumphs faced by these courageous individuals. She brings to life the struggles they endured, the sacrifices they made, and the hopes and dreams that propelled them forward. This history book is not just about facts and figures; it is a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Wilkerson’s storytelling prowess is unmatched, as she seamlessly combines historical facts with personal anecdotes, creating a narrative that is both informative and deeply moving. Through her words, she transports the reader to a time and place where hope and despair coexisted, and where the pursuit of a better life was a constant battle.
Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a well-crafted story, The Warmth of Other Suns is a must-read. Wilkerson’s ability to humanize history and shed light on the oft-forgotten struggles of African Americans is a testament to her skill as a writer and her commitment to telling stories that matter. Prepare to be captivated, enlightened, and inspired by this truly remarkable book on the history of the Great Migration.
The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America
by Erik Larson
The Devil in the White City is not your average history book. It is a thrilling tale that takes you back to the era of the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893. Erik Larson weaves together two fascinating stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
On one hand, you have the incredible story of the World’s Fair itself. Larson transports you to a time when the fairgrounds were a mesmerizing blend of architectural marvels, dazzling displays, and technological innovations. You’ll be awestruck by the grandeur of the White City, the fair’s main attraction, and get lost in the intricate details of its creation.
On the other hand, there is the sinister tale of H.H. Holmes, a charming and cunning serial killer who used the chaos of the fair to his advantage. Larson delves deep into the mind of Holmes, exploring his chilling methods and the web of deception he spun around himself. The juxtaposition of the fair’s beauty and Holmes’ darkness creates a gripping narrative that will leave you spellbound.
With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Larson brings the past to life in a way that will captivate both history buffs and fans of true crime. The Devil in the White City is not just a book about the history; it is a journey into a world of murder, magic, and madness that forever changed America.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
by Rebecca Skloot
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot is an extraordinary book on the story behind one of the most significant scientific discoveries in history. It is not just a book about the history of a woman named Henrietta Lacks, but a captivating journey that explores the intersection of science, ethics, and race.
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon
by David Grann
The Lost City of Z: A Tale of Deadly Obsession in the Amazon, written by David Grann, is an enthralling book on the history of exploration and adventure. It takes readers on a captivating journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest, where a British explorer named Percy Fawcett vanished in 1925 while searching for an ancient lost city.
This meticulously researched book about the history of exploration delves into Fawcett’s obsession with finding the mythical city, known as “Z.” Grann weaves together Fawcett’s story with his own modern-day expedition, retracing the explorer’s footsteps and uncovering new clues along the way.
Through vivid storytelling, Grann brings to life the treacherous jungles of the Amazon, the hardships faced by early explorers, and the allure of the unknown. This history book is filled with suspense, as Fawcett’s ill-fated journey becomes a haunting mystery that has captivated adventurers and historians for decades.
Grann’s writing is both informative and engaging, making The Lost City of Z a must-read for anyone fascinated by real-life tales of exploration and discovery. Whether you are a history buff or simply enjoy a thrilling adventure, this book will transport you to a world where danger lurks in the shadows and the promise of uncovering ancient secrets beckons.
The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt’s New World
by Andrea Wulf
The Invention of Nature is an extraordinary book on the history of science, exploring the life and legacy of Alexander von Humboldt, a forgotten hero of the natural world. Andrea Wulf’s captivating narrative delves into Humboldt’s groundbreaking expeditions, his revolutionary ideas, and his lasting impact on our understanding of the natural world. This captivating book about the history of science reveals the fascinating story of a man who shaped the way we see and understand the world around us.
The Gene: An Intimate History
by Siddhartha Mukherjee
The Gene: An Intimate History by Siddhartha Mukherjee is not just another book on the history of genetics, it is a captivating journey through the fascinating world of genes and the profound impact they have had on humanity.
The Age of Wonder: How the Romantic Generation Discovered the Beauty and Terror of Science
by Richard Holmes
The Age of Wonder: How the Romantic Generation Discovered the Beauty and Terror of Science by Richard Holmes is not your typical book on the history of science. It is a captivating journey through the lives and discoveries of some of the most influential scientists of the Romantic era.
This book about the history of science goes beyond mere facts and dates; it delves into the personal lives, passions, and ambitions of these remarkable individuals. Holmes beautifully weaves together the stories of scientists such as Sir Joseph Banks, Humphry Davy, and Mary Shelley, painting a vivid picture of an era where science and poetry, reason and imagination were intertwined.
The author’s storytelling prowess makes this the history book come alive. He takes the reader on expeditions to uncharted lands, where Banks and his crew encounter exotic plants and animals. He vividly describes the brilliant experiments conducted by Davy, which pushed the boundaries of scientific knowledge. And he explores the profound impact of science on literature, as exemplified by Shelley’s masterpiece, Frankenstein.
What sets this book apart is its focus on the emotional and philosophical aspects of scientific discovery. Holmes highlights the awe, wonder, and even terror that accompanied these groundbreaking advancements. He shows how the Romantic generation viewed science not just as a means to understand the natural world, but as a way to explore the depths of human existence.
Whether you are a science enthusiast or simply intrigued by the history of ideas, The Age of Wonder will captivate you. It is a book that reminds us of the profound connections between art and science, and how the pursuit of knowledge can ignite the imagination and transform our understanding of the world.
The Secret History of Wonder Woman
by Jill Lepore
‘The Secret History of Wonder Woman’ by Jill Lepore is a captivating book on the historical origins of one of the most iconic superheroes of all time. This remarkable delve into the past unveils a hidden world behind the creation of Wonder Woman, shedding light on the fascinating and often forgotten history that surrounds this beloved character.
The Wright Brothers
by Tom Crouch
The Wright Brothers by Tom Crouch is an enthralling book on the story behind one of the most remarkable achievements in human history. Delving deep into the lives of Orville and Wilbur Wright, this captivating narrative unveils the awe-inspiring journey of the siblings who defied gravity and forever changed the course of aviation.
The Black Count: Glory, Revolution, Betrayal, and the Real Count of Monte Cristo
by Tom Reiss
The Black Count: Glory, Revolution, Betrayal, and the Real Count of Monte Cristo by Tom Reiss is not your average history book. It is a captivating and thrilling journey into the past, shedding light on a forgotten hero whose life was more extraordinary than any work of fiction.
This book delves into the life of General Alexandre Dumas, the father of the famous author Alexandre Dumas. Born to a French nobleman and an African slave, Dumas defied the odds and rose through the ranks of the French military during the tumultuous era of the French Revolution.
Reiss skillfully weaves together historical facts, vivid descriptions, and personal anecdotes to bring Dumas and the era he lived in back to life. From his early years as a soldier in the French army to his rise to prominence as a general, Dumas’s story is one of bravery, ambition, and resilience.
The book also explores the racial dynamics of the time, as Dumas faced prejudice and discrimination throughout his career. Despite these challenges, Dumas’s military achievements and indomitable spirit remain an inspiration to this day.
Reiss’s meticulous research and engaging storytelling make The Black Count a riveting read. It is a book that not only unveils the incredible life of General Alexandre Dumas but also provides a fascinating window into the history of France during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Whether you are a history buff or simply love a captivating tale, The Black Count is a must-read. It is a book that reminds us that sometimes, truth is indeed stranger and more remarkable than fiction.
The Lost City of the Monkey God: A True Story
by Douglas Preston
The Lost City of the Monkey God: A True Story by Douglas Preston is an extraordinary book that delves into the mysterious and captivating world of the ancient past. It takes readers on a thrilling journey through time and space, as it uncovers the secrets of a lost civilization hidden deep within the treacherous jungles of Central America.
This gripping non-fiction work is not just another book on the history; it is a spellbinding adventure that combines archaeology, exploration, and danger in equal measure. Preston, an acclaimed author and journalist, leads a team of scientists and experts to a remote and unexplored region known as La Mosquitia, where legends and myths of a legendary lost city have persisted for centuries.
As they navigate through dense forests, swamps, and treacherous rivers, the team faces numerous challenges, from venomous snakes to deadly diseases. Yet, they push forward, driven by the allure of uncovering the truth behind the fabled “White City” or “City of the Monkey God.”
With vivid descriptions and a keen eye for detail, Preston paints a vivid picture of the history, culture, and environment that surround the expedition. From the ancient ruins they discover to the artifacts they unearth, each chapter brings readers closer to unraveling the mysteries of this forgotten civilization.
But The Lost City of the Monkey God is not just a book about the history; it also explores the ethical dilemmas faced by archaeologists and the impact of their discoveries on indigenous communities. It raises thought-provoking questions about the balance between preservation and exploration, and the responsibility we have towards our shared human heritage.
With its heart-stopping adventures, rich historical context, and thought-provoking themes, The Lost City of the Monkey God is a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure and is fascinated by the mysteries of the past. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a thrilling and captivating story, this book will transport you to a world that time forgot.
The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women
by Kate Moore
The Radium Girls: The Dark Story of America’s Shining Women, written by Kate Moore, is a captivating book on the history of a group of women who unknowingly shaped the course of the world. This haunting tale uncovers the shocking truth behind the glamorous glow of radium, as it details the lives of these fearless women who worked in the radium-dial factories during the early 20th century.
Conclusion
In conclusion, delving into the rich tapestry of our past has never been more captivating than through the pages of these phenomenal books about the history. From ancient civilizations to modern revolutions, these literary gems offer an immersive journey through time. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply seeking to broaden your knowledge, these 20 books will transport you to different eras, shedding light on the triumphs, tragedies, and pivotal moments that have shaped our world. Unlock the secrets of the past and embark on an intellectual adventure with these remarkable reads.