The Greatest "Nonfiction, Political" Books Since 1990

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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

Political

The "Political" category of books encompasses works that explore the theory, practice, and history of government and politics. These books may cover topics such as political ideologies, political systems, political institutions, political movements, and political leaders. They may also examine the relationship between politics and other areas of society, such as economics, culture, and international relations. Political books can be both informative and thought-provoking, offering readers insights into the complexities of the political world and the challenges of governing in a democratic society.

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  1. 26. The Intellectuals And The Masses by John Carey

    This book presents a critical examination of the attitudes of early 20th-century intellectuals towards the masses, exploring the disdain and fear that writers and thinkers of the time harbored against the growing literacy and political empowerment of the working class. The author scrutinizes the elitist views and often eugenic arguments that were used to justify the exclusion of the broader population from cultural and intellectual life. By delving into the works and personal correspondences of prominent figures, the text reveals a landscape of intellectual snobbery and challenges the romantic idealization of literary giants by exposing their contempt for the 'masses' they often deemed inferior.

    The 4729th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Ella Baker And The Black Freedom Movement by Barbara Ransby

    This book is a comprehensive biography that chronicles the life and influence of a prominent civil rights activist who played a pivotal role in some of the most influential organizations of her time, including the NAACP, Martin Luther King Jr.'s Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. It delves into her commitment to grassroots organizing and participatory democracy, showcasing her belief in the power of the people to instigate social change. The narrative highlights her behind-the-scenes work, her emphasis on collective leadership, and her dedication to fighting racial and economic injustice, making a strong case for her as one of the most important, yet often overlooked, leaders of the civil rights movement.

    The 4821st Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. Race Matters by Cornel West

    This book is a profound exploration of the impact of race and racism on modern America. It examines the crisis of African-American leadership, the pitfalls of black conservatism, the myth of 'gangsta' culture, and the temptations of black nationalism. The author also delves into the complexities of affirmative action and the damaging effects of the nihilistic threat to the black community. The work offers a critical analysis of the current state of race relations in the United States and proposes solutions for creating a more equitable society.

    The 4999th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. The Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capitalism by Naomi Klein

    This book explores the concept of "disaster capitalism", the idea that global capitalism thrives on disaster and chaos. The author argues that free market policies are often pushed through while countries are reeling from wars, natural disasters, or economic crises. She provides a historical analysis of these events, from Chile in the 1970s, to Russia in the 1990s, to the war in Iraq, demonstrating how governments and corporations exploit these periods of shock to implement economic reforms that would otherwise be rejected.

    The 5001st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Imperial Life in the Emerald City by Rajiv Chandrasekaran

    "Imperial Life in the Emerald City" provides an in-depth look at the American occupation of Iraq, focusing on the Green Zone in Baghdad, which served as the U.S. headquarters. The book reveals how the U.S. administration was ill-prepared for the task of rebuilding Iraq, and how their lack of understanding about the country and its culture led to many mistakes and blunders. The author, through his first-hand accounts and interviews, paints a picture of a surreal, insulated world within the Green Zone, cut off from the harsh realities of the war-torn country outside.

    The 5104th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Black Feminist Thought by Patricia Hill Collins

    The book presents a comprehensive examination of Black feminist thought and its importance in challenging historical and contemporary forms of oppression. It explores the intersectionality of race, gender, and class, and how these interconnected systems of power impact the lives of Black women. The author delves into the contributions of Black feminist intellectuals and activists, highlighting the unique perspectives and resilience of Black women. Through a critical analysis of literature, music, and other cultural expressions, the book argues for the recognition of Black feminist thought as a legitimate and vital intellectual tradition that offers valuable insights into the struggle for social justice and equality.

    The 5107th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. Exile In The Promised Land: A Memoir by Marcia Freedman

    This memoir recounts the journey of a feminist activist who emigrated from the United States to Israel in the 1960s, seeking to be part of the Zionist dream. The narrative delves into her political and personal life, detailing her experiences as one of the first women to serve in the Israeli Knesset, her advocacy for women's and LGBTQ rights, and her eventual disillusionment with the realities of Israeli politics and society. The book offers a candid look at the complexities of Israeli life, the challenges of immigration and identity, and the struggle to reconcile idealism with the often harsh political and social landscape of the Promised Land.

    The 5107th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Imperium by Ryszard Kapuscinski

    "Imperium" is a gripping account of the author's travels through the Soviet Union during the final years of its existence. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of power, the author delves into the lives of ordinary people and high-ranking officials alike, revealing the oppressive nature of the Soviet regime and the profound impact it had on the lives of its citizens. Through vivid descriptions and insightful observations, the book offers a compelling narrative that sheds light on the inner workings of a crumbling empire.

    The 5150th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. Rebellion: Essays 1980 1991 by Minnie Bruce Pratt

    "Rebellion: Essays 1980-1991" is a collection of thought-provoking essays that delve into the personal and political realms of the author's life as a feminist, activist, and lesbian. Throughout the book, the author reflects on the intersection of her identity with the broader social movements of the time, exploring themes of gender, sexuality, race, and class. Her writing is both intimate and analytical, offering insights into the struggles for social justice and the complexities of living on the margins of mainstream society. The essays serve as a powerful testament to the author's journey of self-discovery and her commitment to challenging oppressive systems.

    The 5175th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. How We Survived Communism & Even Laughed by Slavenka Drakulic

    This book is a poignant and insightful collection of essays that delve into the everyday lives of women under communist regimes in Eastern Europe. Through personal narratives and observations, the author explores the harsh realities and small acts of resistance that characterized life behind the Iron Curtain. From the scarcity of basic necessities to the suppression of individual freedoms, the book reveals the resilience and ingenuity of women who navigated a world of political oppression, economic hardship, and social conformity, often finding ways to inject humor and hope into their struggle for survival and dignity.

    The 5175th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. The Bully Pulpit: Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, And The Golden Age Of Journalism by Doris Kearns Goodwin

    This historical work delves into the vibrant era of early 20th-century America, exploring the close friendship and eventual political rivalry between two presidents, Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft. It also highlights the crucial role of muckraking journalists who, with the support of Roosevelt's bully pulpit, exposed corruption and galvanized public opinion. The narrative weaves together the personal and political dynamics that shaped the Progressive Era, showcasing how these leaders and the press collectively brought about significant reforms and forever transformed the American political landscape.

    The 5298th Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Taste Of Power by Elaine Brown

    "Taste of Power" is an autobiographical account of a woman's journey through the ranks of the Black Panther Party during the height of the civil rights movement. As the first woman to lead the organization, she offers an intimate look at the inner workings of the party, the struggles for racial and gender equality, and the political and social turbulence of the 1960s and 1970s. Her narrative provides a unique perspective on the power dynamics within the party, the challenges of activism, and the personal cost of dedicating one's life to social change, while also addressing issues of poverty, education, and the fight against systemic racism.

    The 5328th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. March: Book One by John Lewis

    "March: Book One" is a graphic novel that depicts the early life of a key figure in the American civil rights movement. Raised in rural Alabama, he grows up inspired by the activism surrounding the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the words of Martin Luther King Jr., which sets him on the path of nonviolent protest. The novel highlights his commitment to the fight for equal rights and his journey from a young boy on a farm to one of the key figures in the civil rights movement.

    The 5358th Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. The Passage Of Power: The Years Of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro

    "The Passage of Power: The Years of Lyndon Johnson" by Robert Caro is the fourth volume in his acclaimed biography of the 36th President of the United States. This book covers the years from 1958 to 1964, including Johnson's ascent to the presidency following the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Caro explores Johnson's struggles to pass civil rights legislation, his relationship with Kennedy's family, and his efforts to establish his own presidential legacy. The book also delves into Johnson's personal life, including his marriage to Lady Bird Johnson and his health issues. Overall, "The Passage of Power" provides a comprehensive and insightful look into one of the most complex and consequential figures in American political history.

    The 5450th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. News Of A Kidnapping by Gabriel García Márquez

    The book chronicles the harrowing real-life experiences of several journalists who were kidnapped in Colombia in the early 1990s by the Medellín drug cartel, led by Pablo Escobar. The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil faced by the hostages and their families, while also exploring the complex political and social landscape of Colombia during this tumultuous period. Through meticulous reporting and personal testimonies, the book sheds light on the pervasive influence of drug cartels on Colombian society and the extreme measures taken by Escobar to leverage his power against the government's extradition policies.

    The 5458th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Zeitoun by Dave Eggers

    The book is a non-fiction account of a Syrian-American contractor named Zeitoun who decides to stay in New Orleans during Hurricane Katrina. Despite the chaos, he paddles around the city in a canoe, helping those he can. However, he is arrested and accused of looting, leading to a harrowing experience in prison. The narrative explores themes of family, survival, and the breakdown of civil liberties in times of crisis.

    The 5471st Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Development As Freedom by Amartya Sen

    The book in question is a seminal work in the field of economics and development studies, which argues that true development is best understood as the process of expanding the real freedoms that people enjoy. It challenges traditional indicators of growth, such as GDP, suggesting that they fail to capture the essence of human well-being. Instead, it posits that development should be assessed by the range of choices available to individuals, including access to education, healthcare, and the ability to participate in the economic and political life of society. The author emphasizes the interdependence of various types of freedoms, from political rights to economic opportunities, and the role they play in empowering people to live the lives they value.

    The 5517th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. The Proper Study of Mankind by Isaiah Berlin

    "The Proper Study of Mankind" is a collection of essays that explore the history of ideas, specifically focusing on political and philosophical thought. The book delves into the works and ideas of many notable thinkers, examining their influence on society and their relevance to contemporary issues. The author also discusses the importance of individual freedom, the conflicts between values, and the human capacity for making moral choices, offering profound insights into the nature of mankind and the challenges of the modern world.

    The 5662nd Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Cutting The Rose by Efua Doorkenoo

    "Cutting The Rose" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, culture, and the power dynamics within a Ghanaian community. Set in the 1960s, the story follows the life of a young woman named Akosua, who must navigate the expectations placed upon her as a woman in a patriarchal society while also grappling with her own desires and ambitions. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the author explores themes of tradition, love, and the pursuit of self-discovery in a changing world.

    The 5726th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. Dark Money: The Hidden History Of The Billionaires Behind The Rise Of The Radical Righ by Jane Mayer

    "Dark Money" by Jane Mayer is an investigative book that delves into the secretive world of political funding by wealthy individuals and corporations. Mayer exposes the hidden history of the billionaires behind the rise of the radical right, including the Koch brothers and their network of donors. She reveals how these donors have used their enormous wealth to shape American politics and policy, pushing their own interests and agendas while undermining democracy. Mayer's book is a sobering reminder of the dangers of unchecked political influence by the ultra-wealthy.

    The 5802nd Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. 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 5828th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Philosopher On Dover Beach by Roger Scruton

    "Philosopher on Dover Beach" is a collection of essays that delve into the philosophical and cultural critiques of modern society. The author explores themes of disillusionment with contemporary Western culture, focusing on the loss of spiritual and moral grounding. He critiques various aspects of modern philosophy, art, and politics, arguing for a return to traditional values rooted in humanism and classical thinking. Through his analysis, the author seeks to address the intellectual and ethical voids that he perceives in modern life, advocating for a renewed sense of community and personal responsibility.

    The 5864th Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Citizen And Subject by Mahmood Mamdani

    "Citizen and Subject" explores the complex relationship between citizenship and identity in postcolonial Africa. The author critically examines the concept of citizenship as a tool for exclusion and domination, particularly in the context of colonial and postcolonial states. Through a comprehensive analysis of case studies from Uganda and South Africa, Mamdani delves into the historical processes that have shaped the formation of citizenship and subjecthood, shedding light on the enduring legacies of colonialism and the challenges faced by marginalized groups in attaining full citizenship rights.

    The 5915th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money, and Power by Daniel Yergin

    "The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money, and Power" is a comprehensive history of the global oil industry, tracing its development from the drilling of the first well in Pennsylvania to the oil crisis of the 1970s and its aftermath. The book examines the key players, political conflicts, and technological advancements that have shaped the industry, and explores the profound impact of oil on the global economy and geopolitics. It also discusses the environmental and social challenges associated with oil production and consumption.

    The 6155th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. Country Of My Skull by Antjie Krog

    "Country Of My Skull" is a powerful and deeply personal account of the author's experiences as a journalist covering the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in post-apartheid South Africa. Through her vivid and introspective narrative, the author explores the complexities of forgiveness, justice, and the collective healing process of a nation grappling with its painful past. This thought-provoking book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of reconciliation and the enduring impact of trauma on individuals and societies.

    The 6212th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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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.

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