Books Like...
'Overthrow: America's Century of Regime Change from Hawaii to Iraq' by Stephen Kinzer is a detailed account of fourteen instances of U.S. intervention to promote regime change, replacing existing governments with ones preferred by the U.S. The book covers a range of interventions from Hawaii to Iraq, highlighting the rise of the CIA after WWII and its influence, especially in Latin America during the Cold War years. Kinzer delves into the history of imperialism, detailing how the U.S. government overthrew democratically elected leaders around the world for political reasons and access to resources. The narrative explores the implications of U.S. interventionism and the tragic long-term effects of these regime changes.
If you liked Overthrow: America's Century of Regime Change from Hawaii to Iraq, here are the top 100 books to read next:
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Save:'Lies My Teacher Told Me: Everything Your American History Textbook Got Wrong' by James W. Loewen is a critique of American history textbooks that offers real history to counteract the empty platitudes found in those textbooks. delves into white Americans' relationships with Native Americans and African Americans, pointing out the discrepancies and omissions in traditional historical narratives. Loewen reviews twelve American history books, highlighting their shortcomings and the importance of teaching controversial aspects of history. The writing style is described as informative, eye-opening, and engaging, providing readers with a fresh perspective on American history.
One is astonished in the study of history at the recurrence of the idea that evil must be forgotten, distorted, skimmed over. We must not remember that Daniel Webster got drunk but only remember that ... How to Hide an Empire: A History of the Greater United States by Daniel Immerwahr delves into the history of US imperialism, shedding light on often overlooked aspects of American history such as territories, military bases abroad, and the impact of US expansionism on various populations. Immerwahr's narrative prose and structure make the book highly engaging and informative, offering a detailed exploration of how the United States came to control a significant portion of global affairs while avoiding the creation of traditional colonies.
The thirteen colonies that would make up the United States declared independence from Britain in 1776. Freedom, however, takes many forms. Just a year earlier, the hunter Daniel Boone and thirty or so...- #3
Save:'The Devil's Chessboard: Allen Dulles and the Rise of America's Secret Government' by David Talbot is a compelling exploration of the deep-seated power structures within the American government. Talbot delves into the intricate web of connections between establishment figures, the military industrial complex, and the intelligence community, showcasing how individuals like Allen Dulles wielded immense influence over significant historical events. Through a journalistic narrative style, the book uncovers the dark realities of CIA involvement in covert operations, assassinations, and the manipulation of governments, shedding light on the sinister machinations of those in power.
Allen Dulles went to war on November 9, 1942, crossing into neutral Switzerland from Vichy France, just minutes before the Nazis closed the border. He later told the story of his border crossing with ... Understanding Power by Noam Chomsky is a compilation of his talks and interviews on various topics such as foreign policy, imperialism, social services, and political activism. The book is presented in a question and answer format, allowing readers to choose the topics they want to delve into. Chomsky reinterprets events of the past three decades, connecting America's foreign policy with the decline of domestic social services and offering insights into steps towards social change.
WOMAN: Noam, I think the reason we’ve all come out here to spend the weekend talking with you is to get some of your perspectives on the state of the world, and what we can do to change it. I’m wonder...- #5
Save:In "All the Shah's Men" by Stephen Kinzer, readers are taken on a journey through the 1953 CIA coup that ousted the democratically elected prime minister of Iran, Mohammed Mossadegh. The book expertly delves into the reasons behind Iran's deep-seated mistrust of the Americans and British due to their interference in the country's oil economy and political affairs. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Kinzer explores the complexities of the coup, shedding light on the historical events that shaped US-Iran relations and the lasting impact of the operation on both countries.
Kinzer's writing style in "All the Shah's Men" is described as informative, engaging, and reminiscent of a political thriller. He skillfully weaves together historical facts, personal accounts, and political analyses to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the covert operation and its implications. By presenting multiple perspectives from key players such as Iran, England, and the US, Kinzer offers a nuanced exploration of themes like oil, colonialism, democracy, and the Cold War, making this book a must-read for those interested in the history of US-Iran relations.
Most of Tehran was asleep when an odd caravan set out through the darkness shortly before midnight on August 15, 1953. At its head was an armored car with military markings. Behind came two jeeps and ... - #6
Save:'War is a Racket: The Antiwar Classic by America's Most Decorated Soldier' by Smedley D. Butler delves into the concept of war as a profitable business for a select few, highlighting the corruption and profiteering that occurs during wartime. Through the eyes of a highly decorated Marine Corps Major General, the book exposes the manipulation of foreign governments by powerful corporations and bankers, emphasizing the detrimental impact of war on the general public. Butler's writing style is described as concise yet powerful, presenting profound ideas for peace and prosperity in a straightforward manner that inspires critical thinking and reflection on the true cost of war.
A practicable and workable technique to avoid wars in which the United States may become involved is not limited in its application to the Pacific Ocean and will work equally well in the Atlantic Ocea... - #7
Save:'Open Veins of Latin America: Five Centuries of the Pillage of a Continent' by Eduardo Galeano is a historical masterpiece that delves deep into the exploitation and plunder faced by Latin America over the centuries. Galeano's writing style offers a poetic and vivid portrayal of the continent's tumultuous past, highlighting the impacts of European colonization, economic domination, and political upheavals on the region. The book covers a broad scope of Latin American history, shedding light on the struggles of the indigenous populations, the influence of foreign powers, and the enduring consequences of these historical events on the present-day socio-political landscape.
When Christopher Columbus headed across the great emptiness west of Christendom, he had accepted the challenge of legend. Terrible storms would play with his ships as if they were nutshells and hurl t... '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...- #9
Save: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... - #10
Save:Legacy of Ashes: The History of the CIA by Tim Weiner is a detailed and compelling history of the Central Intelligence Agency, spanning from its inception as the reincarnation of the OSS to the modern era. The book delves into the failures, successes, and controversies surrounding the CIA, shedding light on its covert operations, political interference, and internal struggles. Through meticulous research and objective storytelling, the author presents a comprehensive overview of the agency's evolution, from its role in global power politics to its impact on world events.
“In a global and totalitarian war,” General Donovan believed, “intelligence must be global and totalitarian.” On November 18, 1944, he had written to President Roosevelt proposing that the United Stat...
