The Greatest British "Nonfiction, History" Books Since 1970

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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

History

The category of "History" in books refers to the study and interpretation of past events, societies, and cultures. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including political, social, economic, and cultural developments, as well as the lives of individuals and groups who have shaped the course of history. History books can be written from various perspectives and may focus on specific time periods, regions, or themes. They aim to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

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  1. 26. The World Of Economics by John Eatwell, Murray Milgate, Peter Newman

    "The World of Economics" is a comprehensive reference book that serves as an essential guide to the field of economics, offering a wide-ranging compilation of entries penned by an international group of economists and scholars. The work covers key concepts, theories, and figures that have shaped economic thought, providing readers with a deep understanding of both historical and contemporary economic issues. Its encyclopedic format presents a wealth of information on various topics, including economic policy, market structures, and foundational principles, making it a valuable resource for students, professionals, and anyone interested in the complexities of how economies function and evolve.

    The 5034th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. An Unfinished History Of The World by Hugh Thomas

    "An Unfinished History of the World" offers a comprehensive overview of human civilization, tracing the development of societies from ancient times through the 20th century. The book explores the evolution of political, economic, and social structures across different cultures and continents, highlighting the interconnectedness of global events and the impact of technological and ideological advancements on human progress. Through a detailed narrative, the author provides insights into the forces that have shaped historical epochs and the ongoing challenges that continue to influence the modern world.

    The 5035th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. The Age Of Extremes by Eric Hobsbawm

    "The Age of Extremes" is a historical analysis that explores the tumultuous period of the 20th century, spanning from 1914 to 1991. This work delves into the profound transformations and conflicts that defined the era, including the two World Wars, the Cold War, the rise of fascism and communism, and the eventual collapse of the Soviet Union. The book examines the impact of economic crises, technological advancements, and social changes on global societies, offering insights into how these extreme conditions shaped the modern world and its political landscapes. The narrative combines a detailed account of historical events with a critical evaluation of their economic and cultural implications, providing a comprehensive overview of a century marked by both unprecedented progress and devastating turmoil.

    The 5338th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. Sun Dancing by Geoffrey Moorhouse

    "Sun Dancing" presents a vivid tapestry of medieval Irish monasticism, combining historical facts with imaginative storytelling. The book delves into the austere and spiritually intense lives of monks on Skellig Michael, a remote island off the Irish coast, during the early centuries of Christianity in Ireland. Through a blend of narrative and analysis, the text explores the harsh realities of monastic life, the cultural and religious contributions of these communities, and the broader context of Irish and European history during this period. The author weaves together the daily routines, spiritual practices, and legendary tales of these monks, providing a window into a world where faith and endurance converge amidst the isolation of the Atlantic Ocean.

    The 5410th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. In Siberia by Colin Thubron

    "In Siberia" is a travelogue that takes the reader on a profound journey through the vast and enigmatic Siberian landscape. The author traverses the region, from the Ural Mountains to the Arctic coast, exploring its desolate beauty and the resilience of its inhabitants amidst harsh climates and historical upheavals. Along the way, he encounters remnants of the Soviet era, indigenous cultures clinging to their traditions, and the poignant traces of exile and punishment that have marked the land. The narrative is a rich tapestry of history, personal encounters, and vivid descriptions that capture the soul of a place often synonymous with remoteness and exile.

    The 5541st Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Trilobite! by Richard Fortey

    The book offers an enthralling journey into the ancient world of trilobites, the early arthropods that dominated the seas long before the age of dinosaurs. Through a blend of paleontology, geology, and evolutionary biology, the text delves into the fascinating life and times of these extinct creatures, which thrived for over 300 million years. The author's passion for the subject shines through as he explores the significance of trilobites in understanding Earth's history and the development of life, all the while painting a vivid picture of the prehistoric oceans that were once teeming with these complex and varied life forms.

    The 5717th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. The Hare with Amber Eyes: A Family's Century of Art and Loss by Edmund de Waal

    This book is a family memoir that traces the journey of a collection of miniature Japanese sculptures, called netsuke, through generations of a wealthy Jewish family. The narrative delves into the family's rise to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, their survival during the Nazi regime, their post-war struggles, and their eventual decline. The author uses the netsuke as a lens to explore the themes of art, loss, and family legacy.

    The 5742nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. In Patagonia by Bruce Chatwin

    In this travelogue, the author embarks on a journey through the remote and enigmatic region of Patagonia, located at the southern tip of South America. Blending history, legend, and personal anecdotes, the narrative weaves through the diverse landscapes and cultures of the area, as the author encounters a cast of intriguing characters, from outlaws to settlers, all while searching for traces of its storied past. The book is as much an exploration of the author's wanderlust and love for adventure as it is a portrait of the rugged, windswept terrain and the resilient spirit of the Patagonian people.

    The 5829th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Orwell And Politics by George Orwell

    The book is a comprehensive anthology that brings together a selection of essays, letters, and excerpts from novels, showcasing the author's profound political thought and his unwavering concern for social justice, freedom, and the abuses of political power. It provides insight into the author's evolving political ideology, from his early days as a colonial policeman in Burma to his experiences in the Spanish Civil War, which shaped his views on totalitarianism and socialism. The collection serves as both a reflection of the tumultuous political landscape of the 20th century and a testament to the author's enduring influence as a political writer and thinker.

    The 5851st Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. The World Turned Upside Down by Christopher Hill

    "The World Turned Upside Down" explores the radical ideas and beliefs that flourished during the English Revolution of the 17th century, a period of civil war, regicide, and the establishment of a republic. The book delves into the lives and thoughts of the Ranters, Diggers, Levellers, Quakers, and other groups who challenged the conventional religious and social order of their time. Highlighting how these groups sought to reshape an England they believed was in moral decline, the narrative provides a detailed look at the ferment of revolutionary ideas that questioned authority and tradition, advocating for radical changes in religion, politics, and society.

    The 5973rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Midnight In Chernobyl by Adam Higginbotham

    "Midnight In Chernobyl" is a non-fiction book that tells the story of the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster. The book provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the explosion, the immediate aftermath, and the long-term effects of the disaster. It also explores the political and social context of Soviet Ukraine at the time, and the impact that the disaster had on the country and the world. The book draws on interviews with survivors, officials, and experts, as well as archival documents and scientific research, to provide a comprehensive and compelling narrative of one of the worst nuclear accidents in history.

    The 6100th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Among The Cities by Jan Morris

    "Among the Cities" is a travelogue that takes readers on a journey to various cities around the globe, as seen through the eyes of an experienced and insightful traveler. The book offers a series of vivid portraits that capture the unique spirit, history, and culture of each urban landscape. With a keen eye for detail and a deep appreciation for the idiosyncrasies that define a place, the narrative weaves together personal anecdotes, historical snippets, and observations of social dynamics to provide an engaging reflection on the character and evolution of metropolises from every continent. The work is as much an exploration of the cities themselves as it is a meditation on the nature of urban life and the ways in which cities encapsulate the complexities of the human experience.

    The 6432nd Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. London: The Biography by Peter Ackroyd

    This book is a comprehensive exploration of the city of London, from its ancient origins to the modern era. The author delves into the city's rich history, culture, and unique character, examining its evolution through various lenses such as crime, religion, commerce, education, and entertainment. The narrative is brought to life with fascinating anecdotes, vivid descriptions, and a wealth of historical detail, providing an immersive and engaging portrait of one of the world's most iconic cities.

    The 6491st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Chasing The Monsoon by Alexander Frater

    In this travelogue, the author embarks on a captivating journey following the Indian monsoon as it sweeps across the subcontinent. Starting from the southern tip of Kerala and moving up towards the northeastern state of Assam, he weaves together a tapestry of diverse experiences, meeting a variety of people and observing the profound impact that this dramatic weather phenomenon has on the land and its inhabitants. Along the way, the narrative is enriched with historical context, personal anecdotes, and vivid descriptions of the landscape, ultimately painting a portrait of the monsoon that is as much about the human spirit as it is about the forces of nature.

    The 6531st Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. The London Hanged by Peter Linebaugh

    "The London Hanged" is a historical analysis that delves into the economic and social aspects of capital punishment in 18th-century London. The book examines how the legal system, particularly through the use of public executions at Tyburn, was employed to control the laboring classes as London evolved into a capitalist economy. It explores the lives and trials of those sentenced to hang, not just for heinous crimes but often for petty thefts, reflecting the harsh penal codes of the time. The narrative connects these executions to broader themes of class struggle, economic exploitation, and the development of legal institutions that supported property rights over human rights, offering a critical look at the intersections of law, labor, and capital.

    The 6987th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. No Mercy by Redmond O'Hanlon

    The book is a riveting travelogue that follows the author's harrowing journey into the depths of the Congo Basin, seeking to uncover the truth behind the legends of a dinosaur-like creature said to inhabit the region. Accompanied by a motley crew of scientists and adventurers, the author battles the relentless forces of nature, encounters a myriad of dangerous wildlife, and grapples with the psychological strains induced by the harsh and unpredictable environment. The narrative is as much an exploration of the human spirit and the bonds formed in extreme circumstances as it is a quest for a mythical beast, all told with a blend of humor, vivid description, and keen anthropological insight.

    The 7142nd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. The Fall Of Rome by Bryan Ward-Perkins

    "The Fall of Rome" presents a compelling argument that the decline of the Roman Empire was both a rapid and devastating event, challenging the notion of a gentle transformation. The author uses archaeological evidence and material culture, such as pottery shards and coinage, to illustrate a significant decrease in economic vitality and urban life following the fall of Rome. This decline led to dramatic reductions in general living standards and the loss of sophisticated crafting and building techniques. The book effectively counters the idea of a seamless transition to the early Middle Ages, instead portraying a period marked by turmoil and hardship.

    The 7151st Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. The Ordeal Of Elizabeth Marsh: A Woman In World History. by Linda Colley

    "The Ordeal of Elizabeth Marsh" by Linda Colley tells the story of a remarkable woman who lived in the 18th century and traveled the world, experiencing various cultures and societies. Elizabeth Marsh was born into a wealthy family in England but faced many challenges throughout her life, including being kidnapped in Morocco and facing financial ruin. Colley uses Marsh's story to explore themes of gender, power, and imperialism, and to shed light on the experiences of women in world history.

    The 7168th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Why the West Rules - For Now: The Patterns of History, and What They Reveal About the Future by Ian Morris

    This book is a comprehensive exploration of the historical and cultural patterns that have led to Western dominance in the world. The author uses a broad range of evidence from archaeology, genetics, and linguistics to trace the development of East and West from prehistoric times to the present, arguing that physical geography, rather than culture, religion, or great men, is the primary driving force behind the rise of the West. The book also offers a forecast for the future, predicting a shift in global power from the West to the East.

    The 7881st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Through the Language Glass: Why the World Looks Different in Other Languages by Guy Deutscher

    This book explores the link between language and perception, challenging the conventional belief that languages are only tools for describing reality and do not influence the way we perceive the world. The author delves into how different languages can shape the way their speakers understand and interact with their surroundings, arguing that linguistic differences can significantly impact cognition and perception. The book combines linguistic analysis, cultural history, and cognitive science to provide a fascinating examination of how our mother tongue can affect our cognitive processes, including color perception and spatial orientation.

    The 7881st Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. The Embarrassment Of Riches by Simon Schama

    "The Embarrassment of Riches" is an expansive historical analysis that delves into the culture, society, and identity of the Dutch during the height of their Golden Age in the 17th century. The book explores how the Netherlands, a small, newly independent nation, managed to become a global economic powerhouse and a cradle of artistic and intellectual innovation. Through a rich tapestry of details, the author examines various aspects of Dutch life, from domestic interiors and public rituals to the values and anxieties of the era, illustrating how the wealth accumulated from trade and colonial expansion influenced Dutch culture, morality, and social customs.

    The 7912th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. The Battle For God by Karen Armstrong

    The book explores the rise of fundamentalism in the three major monotheistic religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. It delves into the historical, social, and psychological factors that have led to the resurgence of conservative religious movements in the modern era. By examining key events and figures, the book provides a nuanced understanding of how fundamentalism has emerged as a reaction to the perceived threats of modernity, secularism, and globalization, and how it seeks to reclaim a sense of certainty and identity in an increasingly complex world.

    The 7980th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. How War Came by Donald Cameron Watt

    "How War Came" is a detailed historical analysis that explores the complex political and diplomatic landscape leading up to World War II, particularly focusing on the events of the late 1930s. The book meticulously examines the interactions among major powers, the decisions of key political figures, and the policies and treaties that played significant roles in precipitating the conflict. Through a comprehensive examination of primary sources and diplomatic communications, the narrative delves into how appeasement, aggression, and international tensions converged to ignite one of the most devastating wars in human history.

    The 8114th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. A People's Tragedy by Orlando Figes

    "A People's Tragedy" is an in-depth exploration of the Russian Revolution from 1891 to 1924. The book offers a comprehensive study of the Revolution's roots, its progression, and its aftermath, from the famine that gripped Russia in the 1890s, through the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II, to the establishment of the Bolshevik regime and the death of Lenin. The author uses a broad range of sources, including personal letters, diaries, and government documents, to present a detailed, humanized view of the Revolution's impact on everyday individuals, bringing to life the experiences of peasants, workers, soldiers, and intellectuals.

    The 8137th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. A World On Fire by Amanda Foreman

    "A World on Fire" is a comprehensive account of Britain's involvement in the American Civil War. The book explores the political, economic, and social factors that influenced Britain's decision to remain neutral, despite strong sympathies for the Confederacy. It also delves into the impact of the war on British society, including the role of British citizens in the conflict and the effects of the Union blockade on British trade. The authors provide a detailed and engaging narrative of this often-overlooked aspect of Civil War history.

    The 8251st Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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

Download

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