The Greatest "Nonfiction, Political, American 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

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.

American History

The "American History" category encompasses a broad range of books that delve into the events, figures, and forces that have shaped the United States from its pre-colonial days to the present. This genre includes works on pivotal moments such as the American Revolution, Civil War, and civil rights movements, as well as studies of political, social, and cultural developments across various eras. It covers biographies of influential leaders, analyses of policy changes, and examinations of societal shifts. Whether providing comprehensive overviews or focusing on specific incidents or decades, books in the American History category aim to illuminate the complexities of the nation's past, offering readers insights into the events that have defined the American experience and the context for its ongoing evolution.

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  1. 26. The Politics of American English, 1776-1950 by David Simpson

    This book provides a historical analysis of the political significance of the English language in the United States from the nation's founding through the mid-20th century. It explores how language has been used as a tool of nation-building, a means of establishing identity, and a battleground for cultural and political disputes. The text delves into the debates over linguistic purity, the role of English in education and immigration policies, and the shifting ideologies that have influenced the way Americans speak and write. By examining the intersection of language and politics, the book reveals the complex ways in which the evolution of American English reflects the nation's broader social and political transformations.

    The 5838th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. Detroit: I Do Mind Dying by Dan Georgakas

    "Detroit: I Do Mind Dying" provides a vivid account of the radical labor and social movements in Detroit during the 1960s and 1970s. The book focuses on the activities of the Dodge Revolutionary Union Movement (DRUM) and the League of Revolutionary Black Workers, which sought to address systemic racism, exploitative labor practices, and the broader socio-economic disparities affecting black workers. Through a blend of historical narrative and personal testimonies, the book captures the intensity and passion of a pivotal moment in American labor history, highlighting the struggles and achievements of these revolutionary movements in their fight against industrial exploitation and racial injustice.

    The 6091st Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. The Social Transformation of American Medicine by Paul Starr

    "The Social Transformation of American Medicine" is a comprehensive history of the evolution of healthcare in the United States, examining the rise of the medical profession, the impact of technological advancements, and the development of medical institutions. It explores the dynamics between medical professionals and patients, the influence of social, economic, and political factors on healthcare, and the ongoing struggle for a national health policy. The book also looks at the power dynamics within the medical field and the role of medical authority in society.

    The 6224th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. United States: Essays 1952-1992 by Gore Vidal

    This book is a collection of essays written over a 40-year period, providing an insightful commentary on the political, historical, and cultural landscape of the United States. The author's sharp wit and incisive analysis are evident as he discusses a wide range of topics, from literature and the arts to politics and public life. His observations on American society, its leaders, and its institutions offer a critical perspective on the evolution of the nation during the second half of the 20th century.

    The 6544th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Dreamland: The True Tale of America's Opiate Epidemic by Sam Quinones

    This book provides an in-depth exploration of the opioid crisis in America, tracing its origins and examining its devastating impact. It delves into the lives of addicts, doctors, drug traffickers, and families affected by the epidemic, providing a comprehensive look at the complex factors that contributed to the crisis. The narrative also discusses the role of pharmaceutical companies and uncovers how the aggressive marketing of painkillers led to widespread addiction. Additionally, it sheds light on the black tar heroin trade, revealing how it has infiltrated small towns and suburban communities.

    The 6640th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle

    "Arc of Justice" is a riveting and complex story that unfolds in the racially tense backdrop of 1920s Detroit. The narrative follows an African American physician who moves his family into a predominantly white neighborhood, resulting in a chain of violent events. The doctor stands trial for murder, and the case garners national attention. The book delves into the doctor's fight for justice and the broader societal implications of racial tension, prejudice, and civil rights in America.

    The 6663rd Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. The Assassins’ Gate: America In Iraq by George Packer

    "The Assassins’ Gate: America In Iraq" by George Packer is a detailed account of the United States' involvement in Iraq following the 9/11 attacks. Packer provides an in-depth analysis of the political decisions, military strategies, and cultural misunderstandings that led to the disastrous and ongoing conflict. He also explores the personal stories of soldiers, diplomats, and Iraqis affected by the war. The book offers a critical examination of American foreign policy and its consequences, making it a thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the history of the Iraq War.

    The 6928th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. The Good War by Studs Terkel

    This book is an oral history of World War II as told by men and women who lived through it. It includes narratives from soldiers, civilians, and politicians alike, capturing a wide range of perspectives on the war. The book illustrates the complexities of the war, its impacts on individuals and society, as well as the aftermath. It delves into the human experiences of fear, courage, loss, and survival, providing a poignant and comprehensive account of one of the most impactful events in human history.

    The 6992nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. The Nine: Inside The Secret World Of The Supreme by Jeffrey Toobin

    "The Nine" by Jeffrey Toobin provides an in-depth look at the inner workings of the Supreme Court, focusing on the years between 2005 and 2007. Toobin explores the personalities, ideologies, and decisions of the nine justices who serve on America's highest court, including the contentious nominations of John Roberts and Samuel Alito. He also delves into landmark cases such as Bush v. Gore and the legalization of same-sex marriage. Through interviews with justices and their clerks, as well as extensive research, Toobin offers a fascinating glimpse into the secretive world of the Supreme Court.

    The 7145th Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. The Dark Side by Jane Mayer

    "The Dark Side" by Jane Mayer is a non-fiction book that explores the use of torture and other controversial tactics by the United States government in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. Mayer details the decision-making process behind the use of enhanced interrogation techniques, and the legal and ethical debates surrounding them. She also examines the impact of these tactics on the individuals who were subjected to them, as well as the broader implications for American democracy and human rights. The book draws on extensive research and interviews with key players in the Bush administration, as well as classified documents and memos.

    The 7823rd Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. A Testament of Hope: The Essential Writings and Speeches of Martin Luther King, Jr. by Martin Luther King

    This book is a comprehensive collection of the significant writings and speeches of a renowned civil rights leader. It includes his most influential and inspirational works, such as the "I Have a Dream" speech and the "Letter from Birmingham Jail", among many others. The book provides a deep insight into his thoughts, philosophies, and strategies for nonviolent protests, and his passionate advocacy for equality, justice, and dignity for all. It serves as a testament to his enduring hope for a more inclusive and equitable society.

    The 8081st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention by Manning Marable

    This biography provides an in-depth exploration of Malcolm X's life, from his early days of crime and imprisonment to his transformation into one of the most influential African-American leaders. It delves into his complex relationships, his evolving political beliefs, and his controversial views on race and religion. The book also examines his assassination, shedding new light on the circumstances around his death and the conspiracy theories that followed.

    The 8196th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. Hope in the Dark by Rebecca Solnit

    "Hope in the Dark" is a powerful and inspiring exploration of the transformative power of hope in times of uncertainty. The book challenges the notion that hope is a passive emotion, instead arguing that it is an active process that can inspire change and action. Using a series of historical examples, the author demonstrates how hope has been a driving force in social and political movements, and encourages readers to remain hopeful, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

    The 8331st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Walter Lippmann and the American Century by Ronald Steel

    This book provides an in-depth look at the life and work of Walter Lippmann, one of the most influential journalists in American history. The author explores Lippmann's role in shaping 20th century American politics and public opinion, his relationships with key political figures, and his views on democracy, liberty, and international relations. The book also examines Lippmann's personal life, including his early years, education, and family life.

    The 8343rd Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. After The Music Stopped: The Financial Crisis, The Response, And The Work Ahead by Alan S. Blinder

    After the Music Stopped is a comprehensive analysis of the 2008 financial crisis and its aftermath. Alan S. Blinder, a former vice chairman of the Federal Reserve, examines the causes of the crisis, the government's response to it, and the ongoing challenges facing the global economy. Blinder argues that the crisis was caused by a combination of factors, including lax regulation, excessive risk-taking, and a housing bubble. He also explores the various policy responses to the crisis, including the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) and the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Finally, Blinder offers recommendations for preventing future financial crises and ensuring long-term economic stability.

    The 8453rd Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Days Of Fire: Bush And Cheney In The White House by Peter Baker

    "Days of Fire" is a comprehensive account of the presidency of George W. Bush and his vice president, Dick Cheney, during their eight years in the White House. Peter Baker, a journalist who covered the Bush administration for The New York Times, provides a detailed analysis of the key events and decisions that shaped their time in office, including the 9/11 attacks, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Hurricane Katrina, and the financial crisis. Through interviews with key players and extensive research, Baker offers a nuanced portrait of two men who were both praised and vilified for their leadership and legacy.

    The 8453rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Locking Up Our Own: Crime and Punishment in Black America by James Forman

    This book delves into the complex and controversial issue of mass incarceration in the United States, particularly within the African American community. It explores the historical, social, and political factors that contributed to the high rates of black imprisonment. The author examines the role of African American leaders in advocating for tough-on-crime policies and their unintended consequences. The book is a thought-provoking analysis of the intersection of race, crime, and justice in America.

    The 8495th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. Slavery by Another Name by Douglas A. Blackmon

    The book explores the concept of "neoslavery," which entrapped thousands of African Americans in the South in a system of forced labor after the Civil War. This system was perpetuated by local laws, racial prejudice, and economic manipulation, where black men were arrested on false charges, then sold to companies as cheap labor. The book illuminates the forgotten history of this "age of neoslavery" that persisted into the 20th century and its profound impact on the racial disparities that exist today.

    The 8558th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Thirteen Days In September: Carter, Begin, And Sadat At Camp David by Lawrence Wright

    "Thirteen Days In September" by Lawrence Wright is a detailed account of the historic peace negotiations that took place between President Jimmy Carter, Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat at Camp David in September 1978. The book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the intense negotiations and personal dynamics between the leaders, as they worked to reach a peace agreement that would end decades of conflict in the Middle East. Wright's narrative is a gripping and informative account of a pivotal moment in modern history.

    The 8571st Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. The Gentrification of the Mind by Sarah Schulman

    "The Gentrification of the Mind" is a critical examination of the impact of the AIDS epidemic on American society and culture, particularly in relation to urban gentrification. The author argues that the loss of a generation of artists, writers, and thinkers due to the AIDS crisis led to a homogenization of culture and thought, similar to the way gentrification leads to a homogenization of urban neighborhoods. The book is a powerful critique of the erasure of diverse voices and experiences, and a call to remember and honor the lost history of those affected by the epidemic.

    The 8576th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Nixonland by Rick Perlstein

    "Nixonland" is a detailed historical account of the political and social climate in America from the mid-1960s to mid-1970s, focusing on the rise and fall of President Richard Nixon. The book explores the divisive issues of the time, including the Vietnam War, civil rights, and the Watergate scandal, and how Nixon's manipulation of public fears and prejudices led to a new era of American conservatism. It also delves into the impact of these events on American politics and society, creating a landscape that still resonates today.

    The 8940th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Night Draws Near by Anthony Shadid

    "Night Draws Near" provides an in-depth exploration of the Iraq War's impact on Iraqi citizens, delving into the everyday lives of people caught in the crossfire of conflict. Through a series of personal stories and interviews conducted by the author, a seasoned Middle Eastern correspondent, the book paints a vivid picture of the cultural, social, and political upheaval experienced by the Iraqis. The narrative captures the resilience and suffering of individuals as they navigate the complexities of occupation, insurgency, and the struggle for democracy, offering a poignant critique of the broader implications of U.S. foreign policy in the region.

    The 9122nd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. The Unwinding: An Inner History of the New America by George Packer

    The book offers an in-depth look at the social, political, and economic transformations that have occurred in America over the past three decades. It presents a series of personal narratives from various individuals, including a factory worker, a Silicon Valley billionaire, and a Washington insider, among others. These stories serve to illustrate the larger trends and changes that have taken place in the country, such as deindustrialization, the rise of technology, and the influence of money in politics, and how these shifts have affected the American dream.

    The 9189th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. American Prison: A Reporter's Undercover Journey Into The Business Of Punishment by Shane Bauer

    In "American Prison: A Reporter's Undercover Journey Into The Business Of Punishment," Shane Bauer goes undercover as a correctional officer at a private prison in Louisiana to expose the inhumane conditions and profit-driven motives of the American prison system. Through his experiences, Bauer reveals the corrupt and exploitative nature of the for-profit prison industry, as well as the systemic racism and abuse of power that permeates the entire criminal justice system.

    The 9270th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. White Rage by Carol Anderson

    The book in question examines the complex history of structural racism in the United States, particularly focusing on the insidious ways in which white Americans have resisted and undermined African American progress following the Civil War. It explores the backlash against African American advancement, from the Reconstruction era through to the present day, revealing how systemic racism has been perpetuated by policies, laws, and judicial decisions. The narrative highlights the gap between America's professed ideals of equality and the stark realities of racial inequality, providing a critical analysis of the political and social mechanisms that have worked to maintain white dominance and impede black progress in America.

    The 9350th 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