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26 Best History Books of All Time


Our goal: Find the best History books according to the internet (not just one random person's opinion).

    Here's what we did:
  1. Type "best history books" into our search engine and study the top 5+ pages.
  2. Add only the books mentioned 2+ times.
  3. Rank the results neatly for you here! 😊
    (It was a lot of work. But hey! That's why we're here, right?)

(Updated 2024)

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Last Updated: Monday 1 Jan, 2024

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  1. 2
    Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World
  2. 3
    1491
  3. 6
    A People's History of the United States
  4. 7
    The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire
  5. 8
    Grant

    Grant

    Ron Chernow

  6. 9
    Orientalism

    Orientalism

    Edward W. Said

  7. 10
    Say Nothing
  8. 11
    Postwar
  9. 12
    What Is History?

    What Is History?

    Edward Hallet Carr

  10. 13
    The Communist Manifesto
  11. 14
    SPQR
  12. 15
    1776

    1776

    David McCullough

  13. 18
    Churchill

    Churchill

    A Life

    Martin Gilbert

  14. 19
    A History of the American People
  15. 22
    Leningrad

    Leningrad

    Anna Reid

  16. 24
    Democracy

    Democracy

    A Life

    Paul Cartledge

FAQ

  • What are some of the best books on global history recommended by experts?

    For those interested in a broad perspective on our past, the best books on global history have been curated based on the insights of historians and academic professionals. The recommendations on our site encompass a variety of viewpoints and analyses from expert authors, including university professors who are leaders in their field. Whether you're a student or simply a history enthusiast, you can find a book that suits your interest in global history.

  • How can I find good recommendations for history books about powerful women?

    Finding books focused on the pivotal role of women in history is made easy with our curated lists. Our recommendations highlight the achievements and impact of women across different epochs, detailing their stories from ancient times to the modern era. Each book listed on our site includes a brief overview to help you determine which history book would be a good addition to your collection.

  • Where can historians find great books about past monarchs like kings and queens?

    Historians looking for great books analyzing the lives and reigns of kings and queens will find a wealth of resources on Most Recommended Books. We feature works from renowned historians who have meticulously researched royal figures, and our listings often include detailed biographies and studies that delve into the complexities of monarchies and the individuals who led them.

  • Can I add multiple history books to my cart from your site for purchase on Amazon?

    Absolutely! You can browse through our carefully selected history book list and shortlist the ones you're interested in. Once you're ready, each book can be easily added to your Amazon cart directly from our store. This streamlines your shopping experience, making it convenient to purchase all the history reads you've been interested in one go.

  • Are there engaging history books recommended for school and university-level students?

    Yes, our site features a variety of history books that are perfect for school and university students. Each book is selected to not only be informative but also engaging to ensure students remain captivated by the lessons of history. From detailed explorations of specific eras to comprehensive looks at historical trends, history professors and teachers can find books well-suited for their curriculum.

  • Do you have a list of the greatest history books about iconic figures like Napoleon?

    Indeed, for those interested in the lives of iconic historical figures such as Napoleon, our site offers a shortlist of the greatest history books that explore their legacies in detail. From the strategies of battles to the intricacies of his political maneuvers, these books offer in-depth examinations penned by historians who have dedicated years of research to understanding figures like Napoleon.

  • Which book would you recommend to a beginner who wants to read up on the history of the color white?

    For beginners who are intrigued by the cultural and historical significance of the color white, we have excellent book recommendations that trace its impact and symbolism throughout history. These books offer a great starting point into how colors, including white, play a role in societal development, art, fashion, and politics from diverse historical perspectives.

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