10 Best History Audiobooks to Deepen Your Knowledge

History is a fascinating subject that helps us understand the past and how it shapes our present. But let’s face it—sometimes it can feel a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re juggling busy schedules. That’s where history audiobooks come in.
They allow you to absorb the details of pivotal events, influential people, and world-changing moments while on the go, making learning more accessible and engaging. But here’s the issue: it can be tough to know where to start, and choosing the right audiobook can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.

In this post, we’re going to share some of the best history audiobooks to give you an enriching learning experience. These audiobooks cover everything from the American Revolution to World War II, offering unique perspectives and insights. Plus, we’ll tell you how to use our audiobook speed calculator to adjust the playback speed and make the most out of your time.

You just need the right approach and a helpful tool. To maximize your learning experience, it’s crucial to pick audiobooks that suit your interests and also adjust the playback speed to match your listening pace. That’s where our audiobook speed calculator comes in handy.

Let’s get started.

The Best History Audiobooks

We’ve carefully selected these audiobooks based on their quality, storytelling, and educational value. Whether you’re a history buff or a beginner, there’s something for everyone.

1. The Things They Carried

by Tim O’Brien

The Things They Carried is a timeless and poignant exploration of the Vietnam War, told through the eyes of soldiers who carry not only physical weight but emotional burdens as well. Tim O’Brien masterfully blends fact and fiction in this collection of short stories that dive deep into the lives of soldiers during the war.
The characters wrestle with fear, guilt, loss, and the weight of survival. O’Brien, who served in the Vietnam War himself, offers a unique and brutally honest look at the emotional scars of war that last long after the fighting ends. This is a powerful listen for anyone looking to understand the human cost of conflict. You can listen to The Things They Carried on Audible and Google Play Books.

2. White House Diary

by Jimmy Carter

In White House Diary, Jimmy Carter opens a window into his presidency, offering a personal reflection on his decisions, the political climate of the time, and the behind-the-scenes of the most powerful office in the world. This audiobook is particularly insightful for anyone curious about the complexities of U.S. politics during the late 20th century.
Carter’s writing gives listeners a candid, often introspective, look at the triumphs and failures he encountered in office. He reflects on the Iran hostage crisis, the Camp David Accords, and his efforts toward human rights abroad. Available for listening on Audible and Apple Books, this audiobook is perfect for history lovers and political enthusiasts alike.

3. Decision Points

by George W. Bush

Decision Points is George W. Bush’s memoir, providing an inside look at the key moments of his presidency and the decisions that defined his time in office. The audiobook includes a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the decisions surrounding the September 11 attacks, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and his response to the financial crisis.
Bush shares his thought process during moments of great pressure, offering listeners insight into the weight of leadership during a time of national crisis. This memoir is not just a recounting of events but a reflection on the difficult choices that every president must face. Decision Points is available for listening on Audible and Google Play Books.

4. A Promised Land

by Barack Obama

In A Promised Land, former President Barack Obama provides an intimate and compelling look at his life, career, and the path that led him to the White House. This memoir goes beyond his political achievements, offering personal insights into his thoughts on race, identity, and the challenges of leadership.
Obama delves into his battles with political opponents, the intricacies of passing landmark legislation like the Affordable Care Act, and the global issues that shaped his presidency. A Promised Land is filled with wisdom on governance, perseverance, and personal growth. This audiobook is not only a chronicle of his political journey but also an exploration of the man behind the presidency. You can find this inspiring audiobook on Audible and Apple Books.

5. My Life

by Bill Clinton

Bill Clinton’s My Life is a candid and detailed memoir that takes readers through the life of the 42nd President of the United States. From his early years in Hope, Arkansas, to his time in the White House, Clinton’s storytelling is deeply personal and reflective. He discusses his upbringing, his family, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career.

He doesn’t shy away from the scandals that marked his presidency, offering his own perspective on the Monica Lewinsky affair and the impeachment proceedings. This audiobook provides a fascinating look at the complexities of leading a nation and navigating the personal and political challenges that come with the job. You can listen to My Life on Audible and Google Play Books.

6. Promise Me, Dad

by Joe Biden

In Promise Me, Dad, Joe Biden reflects on the devastating loss of his son Beau, who passed away from brain cancer. This emotional memoir goes beyond the political realm, offering a deeply personal perspective on grief, family, and resilience. Biden recounts the promise he made to Beau during his battle with cancer and how that promise shaped his decision to run for president.
This audiobook is a heartfelt tribute to family and love, as well as a story of overcoming hardship. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of keeping one’s word and the power of perseverance in the face of tragedy. Promise Me, Dad is available for listening on Audible and Apple Books.

7. Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty

by Patrick Radden Keefe

Empire of Pain is a gripping investigative journey into the Sackler family, the wealthy and powerful creators of OxyContin. This audiobook sheds light on how the Sacklers built their pharmaceutical empire and played a major role in the opioid epidemic. Patrick Radden Keefe pulls back the curtain on the corporate greed, moral corruption, and personal ambition that fueled the family’s rise.
The audiobook is a deeply researched, highly engaging narrative that is both shocking and thought-provoking. Empire of Pain isn’t just about a family’s fortune; it’s about the human cost of a crisis that has affected millions of lives. This audiobook is available on Audible and Apple Books.

8. The Great Influenza: The Story of the Deadliest Pandemic in History

by John M. Barry

The Great Influenza takes listeners on a historical journey through the 1918 flu pandemic, the deadliest global health crisis in history. John M. Barry’s thorough research and storytelling delve into the science, the politics, and the human stories behind the pandemic.
This audiobook provides a vivid picture of how the virus spread and the devastating toll it took across the world, as well as how it reshaped public health and medical science for generations to come. Barry not only tells the story of the pandemic but also examines its societal and global impact. This audiobook is available for listening on Audible and Google Play Books.

9. 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus

by Charles C. Mann

In 1491, Charles C. Mann challenges traditional narratives about the Americas before Columbus arrived. The audiobook explores new archaeological findings that paint a very different picture of indigenous civilizations, revealing advanced societies that existed long before European settlers came to the continent.
From complex agricultural systems to sophisticated urban planning, Mann uncovers a rich history that had been largely overlooked or misunderstood. If you’re fascinated by pre-Columbian history or want to learn more about the Americas before the arrival of Europeans, 1491 offers a fresh perspective. It’s available for listening on Audible and Google Play Books.

10. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

by Yuval Noah Harari

Sapiens is a must-listen for anyone interested in the broad sweep of human history. Yuval Noah Harari takes listeners on a journey from the earliest days of Homo sapiens to the present day, covering key milestones such as the cognitive revolution, the agricultural revolution, and the scientific revolution.
Harari’s engaging storytelling breaks down complex topics into easy-to-understand ideas, making it accessible to listeners without a background in history or science. This audiobook is a deep dive into the forces that have shaped human civilization, from biology to culture to economics. You can find Sapiens on Audible, Apple Books, and other audiobook platforms.

Conclusion

We’ve shared a selection of some of the best history audiobooks, each offering a unique perspective on pivotal moments in history. Among them, The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien stands out for its emotional depth and gripping storytelling, which makes it our top pick for anyone interested in understanding the human cost of war.

For a bonus recommendation, check out Radical Acceptance—an inspiring audiobook about self-compassion and acceptance that can complement your journey into history with its introspective and empowering message.

And don’t forget to use our audiobook speed calculator to adjust playback speeds and make your listening experience even more efficient.
If you enjoyed this list, please share it with your friends so they too can dive into these rich, educational audiobooks!