The Greatest British, German "Nonfiction, European History" Books Since 1980

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Nonfiction

European History

European History is a category of books that focuses on the historical events, people, and cultures of Europe. It covers a wide range of topics, including the ancient civilizations of Greece and Rome, the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, and the modern era. This category of books explores the political, social, economic, and cultural developments that have shaped Europe over the centuries, from the rise and fall of empires to the impact of wars and revolutions. It provides readers with a deeper understanding of the rich and complex history of Europe and its influence on the world.

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  1. 26. Rough Crossings by Simon Schama

    "Rough Crossings" is a historical account of the experience of African American slaves during the American Revolution. It focuses on the British promise to grant freedom to slaves who joined their cause, and the subsequent journey of these former slaves to Nova Scotia and Sierra Leone. The book explores the complexities of this period in history, questioning the traditional narrative of the American Revolution and shedding light on the struggle for freedom and equality by African Americans.

    The 9869th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Black And British by David Olusoga

    This book is a comprehensive exploration of the Black British experience, tracing the rich and complex history of Black people in Britain from Roman times to the present day. It delves into the often overlooked contributions of Black Britons and examines the cultural, social, and political impacts of African and Caribbean communities in the UK. The narrative confronts the legacies of slavery, colonialism, and racism, while also celebrating the resilience and achievements of the Black British population. Through a blend of historical analysis, personal stories, and cultural commentary, the book provides a nuanced account of how Black history is inextricably interwoven with the broader British narrative.

    The 10134th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Viking Britain by Thomas Williams

    This historical work delves into the profound impact of Norse warriors on the British Isles from the eighth to the eleventh century. It explores the Vikings not merely as savage raiders, but as settlers, traders, and integral contributors to the cultural and political landscape of medieval Britain. The book offers a nuanced view of the era, challenging the traditional narrative of the Vikings as mere plunderers, and instead painting a complex picture of their roles as colonizers, craftsmen, and even lawmakers, who left a lasting legacy on British language, society, and geography. Through a blend of archaeological evidence and historical records, the narrative brings to life the world of the Vikings in Britain with vivid detail and scholarly insight.

    The 10233rd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. The Anglo Saxons by Marc Morris

    This historical work delves into the rich and complex era of the Anglo-Saxons, spanning from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. It explores the formation of English identity, culture, and language through the intermingling of indigenous Britons with invading Germanic tribes. The narrative illuminates the lives of kings and commoners, the establishment of Christianity, and the enduring legacies of this formative period. Through a blend of archaeological findings, historical documents, and engaging storytelling, the book offers a vivid portrait of a society that laid the foundational stones of modern England.

    The 10476th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Crusade and Jihad: Islam and the Christian World by Bassam Tibi

    This book explores the historical, ideological, and political aspects of the Crusades and Jihad, comparing and contrasting the two. It delves into the origins and evolution of the Crusades and Jihad, their impact on Christian and Islamic societies, and their relevance in today's world. The author also examines the role of religion in conflicts and the use of religious ideologies for political purposes, providing a comprehensive understanding of these complex issues.

    The 10487th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Samuel Pepys: The Unequalled Self by Claire Tomalin

    This biography provides a thorough and engaging look into the life of Samuel Pepys, a 17th-century English naval administrator and Member of Parliament, who is most famous for the diary he kept for a decade. The book explores his personal and professional life, his relationships, his work in the navy, his experiences during events like the Great Fire of London and the plague, as well as his interests in science, music, and theater. It offers a detailed and vivid portrait of Pepys and his times, revealing him as a complex, flawed, yet immensely likable character.

    The 10977th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. The House Of The Dead by Daniel Beer

    "The House of the Dead" explores the brutal reality of life in Siberian penal colonies during the nineteenth century, where the Russian Empire sent thousands of prisoners to endure incredibly harsh conditions. The book provides a detailed historical account, drawing on a wealth of archival material and personal stories to illuminate the lives of these exiles. It examines the impact of exile on the transformation of Russia, revealing how the penal system influenced both the society and the political landscape, including the rise of revolutionary movements. Through its vivid narrative, the book paints a comprehensive picture of suffering, survival, and the human capacity to adapt in one of the most inhospitable places on earth.

    The 11093rd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. A Kick In The Belly by Stella Dadzie

    The book explores the often-overlooked role of women in the resistance and rebellion against the transatlantic slave trade. It highlights the resilience and agency of enslaved African women in the face of brutal oppression, documenting their various forms of resistance, from everyday acts of defiance to outright revolts. Drawing on a wealth of historical sources, the narrative reveals how these women were not just passive victims but active participants in the fight for freedom, shaping the course of history with their courage and determination. The book also examines the impact of gender and power on the experiences of these women, offering a nuanced perspective on a dark chapter in history.

    The 11111th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download