The Greatest Non-Western "Nonfiction, Political" Books of All Time

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This list showcases a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books from Non-Western literature. Curated through a specialized algorithm, it amalgamates 305 'best of' book lists to present a definitive guide to essential literary works from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and beyond. This selection celebrates the diverse and vibrant literary traditions of the world, offering readers a window into a myriad of fascinating narratives and perspectives. For more information on how these books are selected, please visit 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.

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  1. 26. Unity And Struggle by Amilcar Cabral

    "Unity And Struggle" explores the concept of national liberation and the fight against colonialism in Africa. The book delves into the importance of unity among oppressed peoples and the necessity of armed struggle to achieve true independence. Through a combination of historical analysis and personal experiences, the author emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to the liberation struggle. With a passionate call for solidarity and self-determination, "Unity And Struggle" serves as a powerful manifesto for those seeking freedom from oppression.

    The 4460th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 27. My Happy Days In Hell by György Faludy

    The book is an autobiographical account of a Hungarian poet's life during the mid-20th century, chronicling his experiences from his carefree youth through the rise of fascism and his subsequent imprisonment in a brutal labor camp. It is a tale of intellectual passion, political upheaval, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of totalitarianism. The narrative captures the author's journey through a Europe ravaged by war and political strife, his encounters with notable literary figures, and his unyielding commitment to his beliefs and to poetry, even as he endures the hardships and absurdities of a communist regime.

    The 4504th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 28. For My Legionaries by Corneliu Zelea Codreanu

    The book is a manifesto and autobiographical account that details the creation and political ideology of the Iron Guard, a nationalist and anti-Semitic organization in Romania during the early 20th century. It combines personal experiences with ideological exposition, advocating for a nationalist revival, anti-communist and anti-Semitic policies, and a radical overhaul of Romanian society based on Christian values and extreme nationalism. The narrative also reflects the author's leadership role and his vision for a unified, spiritually cleansed Romania, emphasizing loyalty, discipline, and the sacrifice necessary to combat perceived corruption and foreign influence.

    The 4693rd Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 29. A Small Place by Jamaica Kincaid

    This book offers a poignant and provocative look into the complexities of colonialism and its enduring impact on a Caribbean island. Through a blend of personal reflection and social commentary, the narrative delves into the island's history, the exploitation by colonial powers, and the tourism industry's role in perpetuating economic disparities and cultural erosion. The author's incisive prose challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable realities of a postcolonial world, where the beauty of the landscape contrasts sharply with the lives of its native inhabitants, who continue to grapple with the legacies of oppression and cultural identity.

    The 4995th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 30. Dumba Nengue, Run For Your Life by Lina Magaia

    The book is a harrowing account of the Mozambican people's suffering during the civil war that followed the country's independence from Portugal. It compiles testimonies and personal stories that reveal the atrocities committed by the Renamo guerrillas, who were backed by foreign powers. Through the eyes of the survivors, the narrative exposes the brutalities of war, including the destruction of villages, the murder of innocent civilians, and the resilience of those who were forced to flee their homes. The work serves as both a poignant reminder of the cost of conflict and a tribute to the spirit of the Mozambican people who endured and survived amidst such terror.

    The 4995th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 31. Imperium by Ryszard Kapuscinski

    "Imperium" is a gripping account of the author's travels through the Soviet Union during the final years of its existence. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of power, the author delves into the lives of ordinary people and high-ranking officials alike, revealing the oppressive nature of the Soviet regime and the profound impact it had on the lives of its citizens. Through vivid descriptions and insightful observations, the book offers a compelling narrative that sheds light on the inner workings of a crumbling empire.

    The 5176th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 32. How We Survived Communism & Even Laughed by Slavenka Drakulic

    This book is a poignant and insightful collection of essays that delve into the everyday lives of women under communist regimes in Eastern Europe. Through personal narratives and observations, the author explores the harsh realities and small acts of resistance that characterized life behind the Iron Curtain. From the scarcity of basic necessities to the suppression of individual freedoms, the book reveals the resilience and ingenuity of women who navigated a world of political oppression, economic hardship, and social conformity, often finding ways to inject humor and hope into their struggle for survival and dignity.

    The 5202nd Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 33. Prisoner Without A Name, Cell Without A Number by Jacobo Timerman

    The book is a harrowing memoir of a journalist who was detained and tortured by the Argentine military government during the late 1970s. It vividly recounts his experiences of imprisonment, the brutal interrogation techniques he endured, and his observations on the political and social turmoil of Argentina under a repressive regime. The narrative not only exposes the personal anguish and struggle of the author but also serves as a critical examination of the impact of totalitarianism on society and the perilous state of human rights under such governance.

    The 5350th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 34. News Of A Kidnapping by Gabriel García Márquez

    The book chronicles the harrowing real-life experiences of several journalists who were kidnapped in Colombia in the early 1990s by the Medellín drug cartel, led by Pablo Escobar. The narrative delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil faced by the hostages and their families, while also exploring the complex political and social landscape of Colombia during this tumultuous period. Through meticulous reporting and personal testimonies, the book sheds light on the pervasive influence of drug cartels on Colombian society and the extreme measures taken by Escobar to leverage his power against the government's extradition policies.

    The 5482nd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 35. Development As Freedom by Amartya Sen

    The book in question is a seminal work in the field of economics and development studies, which argues that true development is best understood as the process of expanding the real freedoms that people enjoy. It challenges traditional indicators of growth, such as GDP, suggesting that they fail to capture the essence of human well-being. Instead, it posits that development should be assessed by the range of choices available to individuals, including access to education, healthcare, and the ability to participate in the economic and political life of society. The author emphasizes the interdependence of various types of freedoms, from political rights to economic opportunities, and the role they play in empowering people to live the lives they value.

    The 5541st Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 36. Pedagogy Of The Oppressed by Paulo Freire

    This book is a seminal work in the field of critical pedagogy that explores the complex relationship between the oppressor and the oppressed in educational contexts. The author argues that traditional pedagogical methods perpetuate existing hierarchies and suggests a new approach called "problem-posing education," which emphasizes dialogue and critical thinking to empower learners to question and challenge oppressive systems. The text is both a critique of the way education is often used as a tool of domination and a guide for how it can instead be transformed into a practice of freedom, helping individuals to achieve self-realization and societal change.

    The 5541st Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 37. Episodes Of The Cuban Revolutionary War by Che Guevara

    The book is a detailed account of the Cuban Revolutionary War, written by one of its key leaders. It provides an insightful narrative of the guerrilla warfare tactics and major battles that took place from 1956 to 1958, leading to the overthrow of the Batista regime. Through a series of essays and firsthand accounts, the author, a prominent revolutionary figure, shares his experiences, strategic thoughts, and the ideological convictions that drove the rebels' quest for Cuba's liberation. The work not only chronicles military engagements but also reflects on the social and political implications of the revolution.

    The 5541st Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 38. On Guerilla Warfare by Mao

    The book is a seminal work on irregular warfare and revolutionary strategy authored by a prominent 20th-century leader. It outlines the tactics and philosophy behind guerrilla warfare, emphasizing the importance of mobile and flexible combat strategies as a means for smaller, less-equipped forces to combat and ultimately defeat larger, conventional armies. The author discusses the integration of political and military efforts and the necessity of popular support among the local populace to sustain such movements. The work has been influential in various revolutionary movements around the globe, providing a tactical framework for conducting insurgency operations.

    The 5541st Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 39. Cutting The Rose by Efua Doorkenoo

    "Cutting The Rose" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of identity, culture, and the power dynamics within a Ghanaian community. Set in the 1960s, the story follows the life of a young woman named Akosua, who must navigate the expectations placed upon her as a woman in a patriarchal society while also grappling with her own desires and ambitions. Through vivid storytelling and rich character development, the author explores themes of tradition, love, and the pursuit of self-discovery in a changing world.

    The 5750th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 40. Citizen And Subject by Mahmood Mamdani

    "Citizen and Subject" explores the complex relationship between citizenship and identity in postcolonial Africa. The author critically examines the concept of citizenship as a tool for exclusion and domination, particularly in the context of colonial and postcolonial states. Through a comprehensive analysis of case studies from Uganda and South Africa, Mamdani delves into the historical processes that have shaped the formation of citizenship and subjecthood, shedding light on the enduring legacies of colonialism and the challenges faced by marginalized groups in attaining full citizenship rights.

    The 5940th Greatest Book of All Time
  16. 41. Country Of My Skull by Antjie Krog

    "Country Of My Skull" is a powerful and deeply personal account of the author's experiences as a journalist covering the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in post-apartheid South Africa. Through her vivid and introspective narrative, the author explores the complexities of forgiveness, justice, and the collective healing process of a nation grappling with its painful past. This thought-provoking book offers a unique perspective on the complexities of reconciliation and the enduring impact of trauma on individuals and societies.

    The 6233rd Greatest Book of All Time
  17. 42. Modernity On Endless Trial by Leszek Kolakowski

    "Modernity on Endless Trial" is a collection of essays that delve into the philosophical and cultural critiques of modernity, exploring the tensions and challenges inherent in the Western intellectual tradition. The author examines a wide range of topics, including the role of religion, the legacy of Enlightenment, the critiques of Marxism, and the philosophical underpinnings of modern political ideologies. Through these essays, the author offers a profound reflection on the nature of human belief, the limits of reason, and the ongoing struggle to find meaning and value in an increasingly secular and fragmented world. The book serves as a critical inquiry into the intellectual crises of the modern age, questioning the assumptions and hopes that have shaped contemporary Western thought.

    The 6255th Greatest Book of All Time
  18. 43. We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

    The book explores the importance of feminism in today's society and argues that gender equality is not just a women's issue, but a concern for everyone. Drawing from personal experiences and anecdotes, the author highlights the various ways in which gender inequality manifests itself and offers insightful perspectives on how we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable world for all.

    The 6427th Greatest Book of All Time
  19. 44. Mexico: Biography of Power by Enrique Krauze

    This book offers a comprehensive exploration of the political and social evolution of Mexico, tracing the country's history from the pre-Columbian era to the late 20th century. It delves into the lives and legacies of Mexico's influential leaders, examining how their exercise of power shaped the nation's identity and destiny. The narrative weaves through the complexities of Mexico's revolutions, reforms, and relationships with external powers, providing a deep understanding of the forces that have defined the country's path and the characters who have stood at the helm of its journey. Through a blend of biography and historical analysis, the work presents a vivid portrait of a nation's struggle for sovereignty, stability, and self-definition.

    The 6677th Greatest Book of All Time
  20. 45. The Return by Hisham Matar

    "The Return" is a poignant memoir detailing a man's search for his father, who disappeared in Libya's political prison system. The narrative offers a deeply personal exploration of loss, memory, and homecoming as the protagonist returns to his native country after years of living in exile. The book also provides a profound insight into Libya's turbulent history, its oppressive regime, and the devastating impact of politics on individual lives.

    The 6739th Greatest Book of All Time
  21. 46. Tell Me How It Ends: An Essay in 40 Questions by Valeria Luiselli

    This book is a powerful exploration of the critical issue of child immigration, focusing on the experiences of Central American children who arrive in the United States without their parents. The narrative is structured around 40 questions that the author, as a court interpreter, must ask the children to help determine their fate. The book provides a deeply personal and moving account of the human stories behind the ongoing debate over immigration and asylum laws.

    The 6876th Greatest Book of All Time
  22. 47. Secondhand Time: The Last of the Soviets by Svetlana Alexievich

    "Secondhand Time: The Last of the Soviets" is a compilation of personal narratives from individuals who lived through the transformation of the Soviet Union to modern Russia. The book provides a vivid and emotional portrayal of the experiences of ordinary people during this period of significant societal and political change. The author uses these narratives to explore themes such as the impact of political ideology on individual lives, the nature of memory and history, and the enduring effects of trauma and loss.

    The 6943rd Greatest Book of All Time
  23. 48. Shadows Of Tender Fury by Subcomandante Marcos

    "Shadows of Tender Fury" is a compilation of letters and communiqués written by Subcomandante Marcos, the spokesperson for the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) in Chiapas, Mexico. The book documents the period following the 1994 Zapatista uprising, providing insights into the ideological motivations, social justice issues, and the demands for indigenous rights that define the movement. Through these writings, Marcos articulates the struggles and philosophies of the Zapatistas, blending political analysis with poetic eloquence, and offers a compelling voice in the fight against global economic inequality and for the empowerment of marginalized communities.

    The 7020th Greatest Book of All Time
  24. 49. The Vanished Imam by Fouad Ajami

    "The Vanished Imam" delves into the life and legacy of Musa al Sadr, a charismatic Lebanese Shia cleric who mysteriously disappeared in 1978. The book explores his influential role in the transformation of the Shia community in Lebanon from a marginalized group to a significant political force. Through a detailed narrative, the author examines al Sadr's efforts to empower the Shia, his establishment of the Amal Movement, and his disappearance during a trip to Libya, which remains a contentious issue in the Middle East. The book also provides a broader analysis of the social and political dynamics of Lebanon and the region, highlighting the complexities of identity and power.

    The 7855th Greatest Book of All Time
  25. 50. The Future In The Present by C. L. R. James

    "The Future in the Present" is a collection of essays and lectures that delve into the social and political issues of its time, with a focus on the dynamics of class struggle, the importance of revolutionary thought, and the role of the state. The work critically examines the potential for human liberation and the necessary conditions for a society to transition towards socialism. It emphasizes the significance of understanding historical and contemporary movements, while advocating for the active participation of the working class in shaping their future. The author's Marxist perspective is evident as he explores themes of power, resistance, and the quest for a more equitable world.

    The 7901st Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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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.

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