The best history books to read in 2025

These fascinating deep-dives are perfect for history buffs

Book covers of 1975 by Dylan Jones, Accidental Tyrant by Fyodor Teritskiy and Black In Blues by Imani Perry
(Image credit: Constable / C Hurst & Co / Ecco)

Understanding the past "gives us perspective" on current events, said GQ. "And right now, we sorely need perspective." With "war raging in Europe" and Donald Trump causing chaos across the pond, it's worth spending some time discovering how we got here. These are some of the most insightful history books to add to your reading list.

Baltic: The Future of Europe by Oliver Moody

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