The Greatest American History, Crime, and History Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 481 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Genres

American History

The "American History" category encompasses a broad range of books that delve into the events, figures, and forces that have shaped the United States from its pre-colonial days to the present. This genre includes works on pivotal moments such as the American Revolution, Civil War, and civil rights movements, as well as studies of political, social, and cultural developments across various eras. It covers biographies of influential leaders, analyses of policy changes, and examinations of societal shifts. Whether providing comprehensive overviews or focusing on specific incidents or decades, books in the American History category aim to illuminate the complexities of the nation's past, offering readers insights into the events that have defined the American experience and the context for its ongoing evolution.

Crime

The "Crime" category of books typically includes stories that revolve around criminal activities, investigations, and the pursuit of justice. These books may feature detectives, police officers, or other law enforcement officials as main characters, as well as criminals and their victims. Crime novels often involve suspenseful plot twists and turns, as well as complex character development. The genre can encompass a wide range of subgenres, including mystery, thriller, and true crime, and may explore themes such as morality, ethics, and the human condition. Overall, the "Crime" category offers readers a thrilling and engaging look into the darker side of human nature and the justice system.

History

The category of "History" in books refers to the study and interpretation of past events, societies, and cultures. It encompasses a wide range of topics, including political, social, economic, and cultural developments, as well as the lives of individuals and groups who have shaped the course of history. History books can be written from various perspectives and may focus on specific time periods, regions, or themes. They aim to provide readers with a deeper understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

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  1. 1. The Devil In The White City by Erik Larson

    Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair That Changed America

    This book intertwines the true tales of two men during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair: Daniel H. Burnham, the architect responsible for the fair's construction, and H.H. Holmes, a serial killer masquerading as a charming doctor. The narrative alternates between the story of Burnham, his challenges and successes in building the fair, and the chilling story of Holmes, who used the fair to lure his victims to their death. It's a vivid portrayal of the Gilded Age and a chilling exploration of one of America's first known serial killers.

    The 1472nd Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Hard Times by Studs Terkel

    An Oral History of the Great Depression

    This book is a compelling oral history of the Great Depression, featuring a collection of interviews from a diverse range of individuals who lived through the era. The interviewees include both the ordinary people and famous figures of the time, from businessmen and politicians to artists and criminals. The book provides a vivid, first-hand account of the economic hardship, social changes, and emotional struggles experienced by people during the 1930s, offering a unique perspective on this significant period in American history.

    The 2126th Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. The Battle with the Slum by Jacob A. Riis

    "The Battle with the Slum" is a historical documentation of the living conditions in the slums of New York City during the late 19th and early 20th century. The author, a social reformer and journalist, provides a detailed account of the overcrowded and unsanitary conditions that the city's poor were subjected to. The book also highlights the efforts of the government and philanthropists to improve these conditions and eradicate the slums, emphasizing the importance of housing reform and social welfare in urban development.

    The 2729th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Hell's Angels by Hunter S. Thompson

    The Strange and Terrible Saga of the Outlaw Motorcycle Gangs

    This book provides an immersive exploration of the infamous motorcycle gang, the Hell's Angels, as seen through the eyes of a journalist who spent a year living and riding with them. The narrative delves into the lifestyle, mindset, and public perception of these notorious figures, offering a raw and unfiltered look into their world. It also examines the wider cultural context of the 1960s, including societal anxieties and the counterculture movement, and how these factors intersect with the Hell's Angels' existence.

    The 5071st Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. Locking Up Our Own by James Forman

    Crime and Punishment in Black America

    This book delves into the complex and controversial issue of mass incarceration in the United States, particularly within the African American community. It explores the historical, social, and political factors that contributed to the high rates of black imprisonment. The author examines the role of African American leaders in advocating for tough-on-crime policies and their unintended consequences. The book is a thought-provoking analysis of the intersection of race, crime, and justice in America.

    The 6167th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Slavery by Another Name by Douglas A. Blackmon

    The Re-Enslavement of Black Americans from the Civil War to World War II

    The book explores the concept of "neoslavery," which entrapped thousands of African Americans in the South in a system of forced labor after the Civil War. This system was perpetuated by local laws, racial prejudice, and economic manipulation, where black men were arrested on false charges, then sold to companies as cheap labor. The book illuminates the forgotten history of this "age of neoslavery" that persisted into the 20th century and its profound impact on the racial disparities that exist today.

    The 6644th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. Salvation on Sand Mountain by Dennis Covington

    Snake Handling and Redemption in Southern Appalachia

    The book is a personal journey of a journalist who, while covering a murder trial of a snake-handling preacher, becomes deeply involved in the culture of snake handling in Southern Appalachia. He explores the history and religious significance of snake handling, while also wrestling with his own faith and the nature of religious ecstasy. The narrative is a blend of true crime, personal memoir, and religious exploration.

    The 7280th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. When The Clock Broke by John Ganz

    "When The Clock Broke" by John Ganz delves into the transformative period of the early 1990s in America, a time marked by significant social and political shifts. As the Cold War ended, the nation faced new challenges, including economic recession, racial tensions, and the rise of populist movements. The book explores key events and figures of the era, such as the unrest in Crown Heights and Los Angeles, the influence of media personalities like Rush Limbaugh, and the political campaigns of Pat Buchanan and Ross Perot. Ganz paints a vivid picture of a country grappling with change and the emergence of new political dynamics, setting the stage for the polarized landscape we see today.

    The 8279th Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. One Day by Gene Weingarten

    The Extraordinary Story of an Ordinary 24 Hours in America

    The book delves into the intricacies of a single, ordinary day in American life, meticulously chronicling events from various perspectives across the country. Through a series of vignettes, it captures the diverse experiences, challenges, and moments of joy that define the human condition. By focusing on a seemingly random date, the narrative reveals the interconnectedness of people's lives and the profound impact of everyday occurrences, offering a poignant reflection on the shared humanity that binds us all.

    The 9143rd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. Charlie Hustle by Keith O'Brien

    The Rise and Fall of Pete Rose and the Cincinnati Reds

    "Charlie Hustle" delves into the life of Pete Rose, a legendary baseball player known for his record-breaking hits and his embodiment of the American dream. The book explores Rose's journey from a working-class background in Cincinnati to becoming a celebrated figure in baseball. However, his career took a dramatic turn in the 1980s when he became embroiled in a major scandal involving betting on baseball games. This led to his public downfall and a significant impact on the sport and his hometown. Through interviews and extensive research, Keith O'Brien paints a vivid picture of Rose's rise and fall, highlighting how both he and the world around him changed over time.

    The 9945th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Lindbergh by A. Scott Berg

    A Biography

    This biography provides a comprehensive look at the life of Charles Lindbergh, the famous aviator who made the first solo nonstop flight across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927. The book delves into his personal life, including his marriage to Anne Morrow Lindbergh, the tragic kidnapping and murder of their son, his controversial views on race and his involvement with the America First Committee, which opposed U.S. entry into World War II. It also explores his scientific contributions, such as his work in the field of aviation and his involvement in the development of the artificial heart.

    The 14318th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

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.

Download