The best 42 Historical Nonfiction books

Ghost Soldiers by Hampton Sides is a gripping account of a daring rescue mission during World War II. It tells the incredible true story of a group of American soldiers who risked their lives to save their fellow troops from a Japanese prisoner-of-war camp in the Philippines. Filled with bravery, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit, this book offers a unique perspective on the untold heroes of the war.

Nicholas and Alexandra is a gripping account of the last Tsar and Tsarina of Russia, written by Robert K. Massie. It takes you into the fascinating world of imperial Russia and delves into the personal lives of Nicholas II and Alexandra, their family, and the political upheavals that eventually led to the fall of the Romanov dynasty. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Massie brings this tragic and tumultuous period of history to life.

Cleopatra by Stacy Schiff is a captivating biography that delves into the life of one of history's most enigmatic figures. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Schiff unravels the myths surrounding Cleopatra and presents a compelling account of her political prowess, romantic entanglements, and enduring legacy.

Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann is a gripping non-fiction book that delves into the shocking true story of a series of murders of wealthy Osage Native Americans in the 1920s. It uncovers a sinister conspiracy and the birth of the FBI as it investigates the killings. A compelling blend of history, true crime, and investigative journalism.

Catherine the Great by Robert K. Massie is a captivating biography that delves into the extraordinary life of one of history's most powerful and enigmatic rulers. From her humble beginnings as a German princess to her reign as Empress of Russia, Massie provides a detailed account of Catherine's political savvy, cultural influence, and personal relationships. This book offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and legacy of a truly remarkable woman.

Maus I: A Survivor's Tale by Art Spiegelman is a powerful graphic novel that tells the story of the Holocaust through the eyes of the author’s father. Using the metaphor of Jews as mice and Nazis as cats, this deeply moving book delves into the horrors of the past while also exploring the complex relationship between the author and his father.

Voices from Chernobyl is a haunting oral history book by Svetlana Alexievich that gives voice to the survivors and witnesses of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. Through a series of interviews, the book reveals the untold stories of those affected by the catastrophe, offering a deeply personal and harrowing account of one of the worst man-made disasters in history.

The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich by William L. Shirer provides a comprehensive account of Nazi Germany, from the early days of Adolf Hitler's rise to power to the collapse of the regime at the end of World War II. Drawing on extensive research and firsthand accounts, the book delves into the political, social, and military aspects of this dark period in history, offering valuable insights into the inner workings of the Third Reich.

The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris is a powerful and haunting true story of love and survival in the midst of one of history's darkest moments. Based on interviews with Holocaust survivor Lale Sokolov, it chronicles his experiences as the tattooist at Auschwitz and his extraordinary relationship with Gita, a fellow prisoner. This gripping tale reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit even in the face of unimaginable cruelty.

The Six Wives of Henry VIII by Alison Weir explores the lives and fates of the six women who were married to one of England's most infamous kings. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Weir delves into the political and personal dynamics that shaped each queen's relationship with Henry VIII, offering a rich and insightful portrait of this fascinating period in history.

The Accidental President by A. J. Baime is a gripping account of the unexpected rise of Harry S. Truman to the presidency of the United States. Filled with political intrigue and personal drama, this book delves into the challenges and decisions Truman faced as he stepped into the role of leader during a critical time in history.

The Life of Elizabeth I by Alison Weir offers a comprehensive and engaging account of the famous English queen. Drawing on historical records and meticulous research, Weir uncovers the complexities of Elizabeth's life and reign, exploring her political strategies, personal relationships, and lasting legacy. This book provides a vivid portrayal of a remarkable woman who defied expectations and shaped the course of history.

Lies My Teacher Told Me by James W. Loewen challenges the way history is taught in American schools. The book uncovers the half-truths and outright falsehoods that are often presented as facts in history textbooks. Through extensive research and analysis, Loewen reveals the distorted narratives and hidden perspectives that shape our understanding of the past. A thought-provoking read that urges us to question what we think we know about history.

Into Thin Air (1997) by Jon Krakauer is a gripping firsthand account of a disastrous expedition up Mount Everest. Krakauer, a journalist and mountaineer, takes readers on a harrowing journey to the summit, exploring the dangers and consequences of extreme altitude climbing. This powerful tale delves into themes of survival, accountability, and the indomitable human spirit. It will leave you breathless and deeply reflective.

The Children of Henry VIII by Alison Weir delves into the lives of the famous Tudor monarch's offspring. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Weir uncovers the complex relationships, ambitions, and struggles of Henry VIII's children, shaping the course of English history in the process.

In the Heart of the Sea by Nathaniel Philbrick is a gripping account of the true events that inspired Herman Melville's Moby-Dick. It tells the harrowing story of the whaleship Essex and its crew, who are stranded at sea for 90 days after a massive sperm whale attacks their ship. Philbrick skillfully weaves together history, adventure, and survival, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in maritime tales.

How the Irish Saved Civilization by Thomas Cahill explores the role of Irish monks in preserving Western literature and learning during the Dark Ages. Through engaging storytelling and historical analysis, the book highlights the immense contribution of Irish scholars in safeguarding and transmitting knowledge that would have otherwise been lost to history.

Seabiscuit is a compelling non-fiction book by Laura Hillenbrand that tells the incredible story of an undersized racehorse who overcame all odds to become a symbol of hope during the Great Depression. Filled with rich historical detail and captivating storytelling, it offers an inspiring glimpse into the world of horse racing and the resilience of the human spirit.

All the President's Men by Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein is a gripping account of their investigation into the Watergate scandal. This book delves into the intricate details of their journalistic work, uncovering the web of corruption and deceit that ultimately led to President Nixon's downfall. It is a compelling and influential piece of investigative journalism that exposes the power of a free press.

The Romanov Sisters by Helen Rappaport delves into the lives of the four daughters of Tsar Nicholas II, offering a poignant and intimate portrayal of their family dynamics, personal struggles, and ultimately, their tragic fate. Through letters, diaries, and historical accounts, Rappaport brings to life the untold story of Olga, Tatiana, Maria, and Anastasia, shedding light on the human side of one of history's most famous royal families.

Maus II: A Survivor's Tale is a graphic novel by Art Spiegelman that continues the story of his father's experiences during the Holocaust. Through the use of anthropomorphic animals, Spiegelman delves into the complexities of survival, guilt, and the intergenerational impact of trauma. It is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of history and memory.

Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee is a historical non-fiction book that chronicles the profound impact of American expansion on Native American tribes in the late 19th century. Through detailed research and gripping storytelling, Dee Brown sheds light on the injustices and tragedies endured by the indigenous people, giving voice to their untold stories.

Schindler's List is a historical novel by Thomas Keneally that tells the extraordinary story of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved the lives of over a thousand Jewish refugees during the Holocaust. Set against the backdrop of World War II, it is a powerful account of courage, humanity, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

Undaunted Courage by Stephen E. Ambrose is a gripping account of the Lewis and Clark expedition. It delves into the incredible journey of these two explorers as they venture into uncharted territory, facing numerous challenges and hardships along the way. Ambrose skillfully brings to life the bravery and determination of the men who shaped the course of American history.

The Other Wes Moore by Wes Moore is a thought-provoking book that explores the lives of two men with the same name who grew up in similar circumstances but ended up with very different destinies. Through personal anecdotes and in-depth research, Moore delves into the factors that shaped their lives and raises important questions about family, education, and the choices we make.

The Lost City of the Monkey God by Douglas Preston is a captivating non-fiction book that delves into the real-life expedition to uncover an ancient civilization in the dense jungles of Honduras. Filled with adventure, history, and scientific discovery, this book takes readers on a thrilling journey as the author and a team of explorers face numerous challenges in their quest to reveal the secrets of the legendary lost city.

Midnight in Chernobyl by Adam Higginbotham is a gripping account of the catastrophic nuclear disaster that took place in 1986. Through extensive research and interviews, the book delves into the events leading up to the explosion at the Chernobyl power plant, the immediate aftermath, and the long-term consequences. It offers a compelling blend of science, history, and human drama, shedding light on one of the most devastating man-made disasters in history.

Grant by Ron Chernow is a comprehensive biography of Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th President of the United States and a key figure in American history. Chernow delves into Grant's early life, his military career during the Civil War, and his presidency, offering a nuanced portrayal of a complex and often misunderstood leader.

The Ghost Map by Steven Johnson examines the 1854 cholera outbreak in London and the investigation that led to a groundbreaking discovery in the field of public health. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Johnson uncovers the connection between the spread of the disease and the city's water source, ultimately changing the way we understand and combat infectious diseases. A must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of science, history, and urban development.

Wild Swans by Jung Chang is a powerful memoir that traces three generations of women in China, from the time of the last emperor to the Cultural Revolution. Through the personal stories of the author, her mother, and her grandmother, the book offers a vivid portrayal of the country's tumultuous history and the resilience of the women who lived through it.

Dead Wake by Erik Larson is a gripping account of the sinking of the Lusitania during World War I. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Larson brings to life the events leading up to the tragedy and its profound impact on history. This book offers a fascinating blend of maritime history, military strategy, and personal narratives, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the untold stories of war.

John Adams by David McCullough is a comprehensive biography that delves into the life and legacy of the second President of the United States. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book offers a vivid portrait of a pioneering and often misunderstood figure in American history.

The Professor and the Madman is a captivating non-fiction book by Simon Winchester. It delves into the fascinating story behind the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary, focusing on the unlikely friendship between the scholarly Professor James Murray and the criminally insane Dr. W.C. Minor. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the book reveals the extraordinary contributions of an unexpected genius to one of the most renowned dictionaries in the world.

Hard Times is a collection of oral histories by Studs Terkel, capturing the experiences of Americans during the Great Depression. Through interviews with people from all walks of life, the book provides a firsthand account of the hardships and resilience of individuals and communities during this challenging period in history. It offers a unique perspective on the human spirit and the power of storytelling.

Lakota Woman is a memoir by Mary Crow Dog that tells the story of her life as a Native American woman growing up on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. It offers a firsthand account of the struggles and resilience of the Lakota people, as well as Crow Dog's own journey towards self-discovery and activism. The book provides a unique perspective on the challenges faced by Native Americans in the United States.

This biography delves into the life of Prince Harry, from his childhood to his time in the military and his public role as a member of the royal family. It explores his personal struggles and triumphs, as well as his journey to finding his own identity and purpose. Larcombe provides an intimate and insightful look at the prince, offering a balanced portrayal of his life in the spotlight.

The Poisoner's Handbook by Deborah Blum is a gripping account of the birth of forensic science in the early 20th century. Focusing on the work of two pioneering scientists, it explores how they fought against corruption and ignorance to develop methods for detecting poisons and solving mysterious deaths. Blending history, true crime, and scientific discovery, this book offers a fascinating glimpse into a dark and intriguing period in American history.

SPQR by Mary Beard offers a lively and engaging account of ancient Rome, exploring its politics, society, and culture. Through meticulous research and insightful analysis, Beard challenges common misconceptions and brings the history of Rome to life. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the fascinating world of ancient civilizations.

The Things They Carried is a powerful book by Tim O'Brien that tells the story of a group of soldiers during the Vietnam War. Blurring the line between fiction and memoir, it delves into the emotional and psychological weight that soldiers carry with them. Through gripping storytelling, O'Brien takes readers on a journey that examines the realities of war and the burden of memory.

Band of Brothers by Stephen E. Ambrose is a gripping account of the extraordinary bravery and camaraderie displayed by the men of Easy Company during World War II. Based on interviews with the soldiers themselves, this book takes you on a journey through their training, their battles, and the bonds that held them together. It's a powerful tribute to the unsung heroes of the war.

In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson transports readers to 1930s Berlin, where a family becomes entangled in the web of Nazi Germany. Through meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Larson paints a vivid picture of the political and social climate, offering a chilling account of the rise of Hitler and the world that allowed it to happen.

Faster by Neal Bascomb tells the incredible true story of how a group of American and British spies worked together to sabotage the Nazi war machine during World War II. Focusing on the daring mission to disrupt Germany's development of a nuclear bomb, this gripping book reveals the high-stakes race to prevent a devastating weapon from being created.