Recommended Reading for History Buffs

History is a fascinating telling of the human experiences, narratives woven together by the deeds of individuals, the rise and fall of empires, and the evolution of societies. It offers us a window into the past, allowing us to learn from our predecessors, gain a deeper understanding of our present, and chart a more informed course for the future. But where do you begin your journey through history? This list of 5 great books is your passport to explore the richness of the past.

These carefully selected books span a wide range of topics and time periods, offering something for everyone interested in history. From ancient civilizations to modern revolutions, from the tales of conquerors to the struggles of the oppressed, these books illuminate the complex tapestry of human history. I believe these history books will captivate your imagination and expand your knowledge of the world that came before us, just as they did for me.

1.  '1959: The Year Everything Changed' By Fred Kaplan. A fascinating look at many of the pivotal changes in social, political, cultural, and technological changes centered on 1959.
2. 'Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World' By Jack Weatherford. An estimated 0.5 percent of the male population in the world carries Genghis Khan's genes today. That's around 16 million people. I think that is a story worth knowing.
3. 'Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln' By Doris Kearns Goodwin. Lincoln is often listed as the greatest president in United States American history. I think he is one of the most extraordinary people in history, at least in the top 10 along with Marcus Aurelius.
4. 'American Nations: A History of the Eleven Rival Regional Cultures of North America' By Colin Woodard. An eye opening perspective of the different cultures in North America today. You won't look at the USA the same again.
5. 'Man's Search for Meaning' By Viktor E. Frankl. Though this is in part a psychology book, it is also a powerful story of a mans survival through the World War II Holocaust. If we hope to start understanding humans at their best and worst, this book is required reading.

As we all stand on the shoulders of the giants of the past, knowing history helps us deepen our understanding of the world we live in and expand our creativity to be able to retrieve lost information for new generations. Happy Reading!