Books matching: political history
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A thought-provoking, radical retelling of U.S. history that lifts up voices often ignored. Eye-opening but definitely opinionated - take it as a conversation-starter, not the last word.
'A People's History of the United States' by Howard Zinn presents American history through the eyes of the marginalized and oppressed, such as indigenous peoples, slaves, women, workers, and the poor. Zinn challenges the traditional narrative of American history by highlighting the struggles and perspectives of those often overlooked in mainstream historical accounts. The book provides a comprehensive and alternative view of historical events, offering a critical analysis of the foundations of the United States and shedding light on lesser-known rebellions and movements that have shaped the nation.
Zinn's writing style in 'A People's History of the United States' is described as engaging, readable, and well-sourced. Readers find the book to be informative, eye-opening, and thought-provoking, as it delves into the darker aspects of American history that are often omitted or sugar-coated in traditional textbooks. Through detailed accounts and historical facts, Zinn offers readers a different perspective on key events and figures in American history, encouraging critical thinking and a reevaluation of commonly held beliefs about the nation's past.
Arawak men and women, naked, tawny, and full of wonder, emerged from their villages onto the island’s beaches and swam out to get a closer look at the strange big boat. When Columbus and his sailors c...1980•676 pages- #2
Save:A meticulous and readable exposé of the dark side of Cold War politics - disturbing, essential, and hauntingly relevant today.
Vincent Bevins' book, 'The Jakarta Method', delves into the dark history of Washington's anticommunist crusade and the mass murder program that had a profound impact on the world. Through extensive research and compelling storytelling, Bevins uncovers the brutal realities of imperialism, CIA interventions, and the violent suppression of socialist movements in various third world countries. The book sheds light on the ruthless tactics employed by the U.S. government to further its interests, the devastating consequences of these actions on local populations, and the lasting effects that still resonate today.
THE UNITED STATES, A WESTERN European settler colony in North America, emerged from World War II as by far the most powerful state on Earth. This was a surprise to most Americans, and to most of the w...May 2020•377 pages - #3
Save:Epic, opinionated, and packed with insight - "Nixonland" is essential if you want to understand modern American politics, but come prepared for a long, challenging, and sometimes messy journey through one of America’s most turbulent eras.
Nixonland by Rick Perlstein is a detailed and fascinating chronicle of the years 1965-1972, focusing on the rise of Richard Nixon and the transformation of American politics during that era. Perlstein delves into the toxic blend of resentment, paranoia, and cultural backlash that characterized Nixon's presidency, culminating in the Watergate scandal. Through meticulous research and analysis, Perlstein paints a vivid picture of a country divided by race, patriotism, and the Vietnam War, showcasing the mood of anger and resentment that permeated American society during that turbulent time.
Perlstein's writing style in Nixonland is engaging and immersive, offering a wonkish biography, variegated character study, cultural critique, and political forensic analysis. By drawing on primary sources such as the infamous Nixon Tapes, Perlstein provides readers with a nuanced understanding of Nixon's psyche and the political landscape of the 1960s. The book skillfully weaves together narratives of political intrigue, social upheaval, and personal ambition, offering a comprehensive exploration of how Nixon's presidency shaped modern American politics.
YOU MIGHT SAY THE STORY STARTS WITH A TELEVISION BROADCAST. IT issued from the Los Angeles television station KTLA, for four straight August days in 1965, culminating Sunday night, August 15, with a o...May 2008•896 pages An ambitious, eye-opening sweep through America's history, told with heart and insight - just don’t expect every detail. Great for big-picture thinkers and anyone eager to understand how the past shapes our present.
'These Truths: A History of the United States' by Jill Lepore is a comprehensive history book that delves into the complexities of American history, focusing on various significant aspects such as the stain of slavery, the growth of political institutions, the evolution of mass media, and the impact of populism. Lepore's writing style is described as engaging, with a narrative that covers a broad timeline from Columbus's arrival to the Trump presidency, providing insights into key historical events and societal changes.
All of this is unfortunate; none of it is unusual. Most of what once existed is gone. Flesh decays, wood rots, walls fall, books burn. Nature takes one toll, malice another. History is the study of wh...September 2018A monumental biography that uncovers how power really works, told with unmatched depth and flair - but expect a marathon, not a sprint. Essential if you love history, politics, or New York; maybe too much if you’re here for a quick read.
'The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York' by Robert A. Caro is a monumental biography exploring the life and impact of Robert Moses, a powerful figure in New York City's history. The book delves into Moses' rise to power without holding elected office, his manipulation of the city's landscape, and his controversial legacy in urban planning. Caro's writing is described as extensive, detailed, and engaging, presenting Moses as a complex and influential figure in shaping New York City.
A bold, pithy, and often eye-opening critique of modern power structures - especially for those interested in the crossroads of fascism and communism. Not everyone's cup of tea, but a must-read for the politically curious and left-minded.
'Blackshirts and Reds: Rational Fascism and the Overthrow of Communism' by Michael Parenti draws parallels between historical events and contemporary issues, debunking myths about former communist regimes while highlighting the importance of awareness and resistance against fascism. Through a methodical examination, the book provides insights into the forces that shaped the modern world, making it a valuable resource for those interested in equity, the future of society, and understanding the dynamics between authoritarianism and communism. With a succinct and accessible writing style, Parenti differentiates fascism from socialism, offering a critical analysis of capitalism's relationship with fascism.
Let us begin with a look at fascism’s founder. Born in 1883, the son of a blacksmith, Benito Mussolini’s early manhood was marked by street brawls, arrests, jailings, and violent radical political act...June 1997•168 pages- #7
Save:An absorbing, meticulously researched rollercoaster through the birth of modern conservatism - essential for political history buffs, but might be too dense for casual readers.
'Before the Storm: Barry Goldwater and the Unmaking of the American Consensus' by Rick Perlstein is a detailed account of the political process leading to Goldwater's nomination, intertwined with a biography of the early sixties. The book delves into the right-wing Republican factions, the civil rights movement, college campus unrest, and the undercurrent of discontent that would reshape the Republican party base. Perlstein's writing style is described as exhaustive in detail, occasionally exhausting but ultimately informative and engaging, offering insights into the fracturing of the American political landscape.
Imagine you live in a town of twenty, or fifty, or one hundred thousand souls—in Indiana, perhaps, or Illinois, or Missouri, or Tennessee—with a colonnaded red-brick city hall at its center, a Main St...2001•696 pages A sweeping, ambitious, and thought-provoking alternative take on world history - more about global crossroads and shifting power than just spices and silk. Not perfect, but definitely worth a look if you want your view of history shaken up.
'The Silk Roads: A New History of the World' by Peter Frankopan is a comprehensive narrative of world history focusing on the regions from the Mediterranean to the Himalayas, and across Central Asia to China. It presents a new perspective on historical events, emphasizing the connections and exchanges that took place along the Silk Roads over centuries. The author weaves a compelling account of the history of the Middle East and Central Asia, shedding light on trade, news, and religious views that traversed the vast tracts that were formerly part of the Soviet Union.
offers insights into the impact of historical events on current affairs and explores the shifting balance of power between Europe, Asia, and the United States. It delves into the complexities of interactions and influences across different regions, highlighting the significance of the Silk Roads in shaping civilizations and world politics. The narrative provides a unique perspective on world history, challenging the Euro-centric viewpoint and offering a broader understanding of global events.
From the beginning of time, the centre of Asia was where empires were made. The alluvial lowlands of Mesopotamia, fed by the Tigris and Euphrates, provided the basis for civilisation itself – for it w...2015•636 pagesA moving, vital, thoroughly-researched chronicle that re-centers overlooked voices and hard truths - it's essential reading for understanding activism, queer history, and the fight against AIDS, but its sprawling style may not suit every reader.
'Let the Record Show: A Political History of ACT UP New York, 1987-1993' by Sarah Schulman is a meticulously researched oral history that documents the ideals, actions, successes, and failures of the AIDS Coalition To Unleash Power in New York City. Through interviews with key players, the book provides a comprehensive review of the complicated history of ACT UP, highlighting the humanity of its members and their relentless activism for access to treatments and healthcare justice. Schulman's writing style contextualizes the times in which the activists lived, showcasing the struggles faced by marginalized communities and the governmental neglect that set the stage for the AIDS epidemic.
delves into the inner workings of ACT UP, documenting rifts between members, financial swindles, and controversial decisions like protesting the Catholic Church. Schulman presents a diverse range of perspectives, shedding light on the contributions of women and people of color within the organization, while also exploring the personal stories of activists involved in the movement. Through detailed accounts of major events like the FDA protests and the Stop the Church demonstration, the book captures the rage, fear, and creativity of those who fought against the AIDS crisis, ultimately offering insights into the complexities of activism and social justice movements.
Although the story of AIDS activism is one of heroism, it actually starts in suffering. AIDS without medication is a grotesque display of loss. Every faculty disintegrates: the brain, the lungs, the n...May 2021•743 pagesAn epic, thought-provoking chronicle of America’s political and cultural transformation in the 1970s - essential for serious history and politics fans, but perhaps too sprawling for the casual reader.
Rick Perlstein's 'The Invisible Bridge: The Fall of Nixon and the Rise of Reagan' is a detailed account of the political and social climate of the United States in the 1970s. The book covers the tumultuous years between Nixon's reelection and the 1976 Republican convention, focusing on the fall of Nixon and the rise of Ronald Reagan. Perlstein skillfully intertwines political events with cultural contexts, providing a lively narrative that delves into the complexities of American conservatism during this era. The book offers insight into the political decadence and ideological shifts that shaped the landscape of American politics in the mid-1970s.
Perlstein's writing style is described as witty, engaging, and entertaining, reminiscent of a historical narrative. The book not only chronicles the key political events of the time but also delves into the cultural influences, pop culture references, and personal anecdotes that provide a comprehensive understanding of the era. Through meticulous research and storytelling, Perlstein offers a deep dive into the rise of right-wing conservatism, the personalities of key political figures, and the societal changes that marked this transformative period in American history.
ONCE UPON A TIME WE had a Civil War. More than six hundred thousand Americans were slaughtered or wounded. Soon afterward, the two sides began carrying out sentimental rituals of reconciliation. Confe...August 2014•880 pages
