Description

Book Synopsis
The past is capricious enough to support every stance - no matter how questionable. In 2002, the Bush administration decided that dealing with Saddam Hussein was like appeasing Hitler or Mussolini, and promptly invaded Iraq. Were they wrong to look to history for guidance? No; their mistake was to exaggerate one of its lessons while suppressing others of equal importance. History is often hijacked through suppression, manipulation, and, sometimes, even outright deception. MacMillan's book is packed full of examples of the abuses of history. In response, she urges us to treat the past with care and respect.

Trade Review
No history lover should fail to digest the lessons of this short but brilliant book. -- Simon Heffer * Daily Telegraph *
A magnificent book, wise and timely * Tribune *
This is history used as its own best argument * Toronto Sun *
Swift and bracing * Independent *

The Uses and Abuses of History

    Product form

    £8.54

    Includes FREE delivery

    RRP £8.99 – you save £0.45 (5%)

    Order before 4pm tomorrow for delivery by Wed 29 Jul 2026.

    A Paperback / softback by Professor Margaret MacMillan

    2 in stock

      Trusted by thousands of customers. See 2,385+ Customer Reviews

      View other formats and editions of The Uses and Abuses of History by Professor Margaret MacMillan

      Publisher: Profile Books Ltd
      Publication Date: Publication Date: 01/04/2010
      ISBN13: 9781846682100, 978-1846682100
      ISBN10: 184668210X
      Also in:
      General and world history

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      The past is capricious enough to support every stance - no matter how questionable. In 2002, the Bush administration decided that dealing with Saddam Hussein was like appeasing Hitler or Mussolini, and promptly invaded Iraq. Were they wrong to look to history for guidance? No; their mistake was to exaggerate one of its lessons while suppressing others of equal importance. History is often hijacked through suppression, manipulation, and, sometimes, even outright deception. MacMillan's book is packed full of examples of the abuses of history. In response, she urges us to treat the past with care and respect.

      Trade Review
      No history lover should fail to digest the lessons of this short but brilliant book. -- Simon Heffer * Daily Telegraph *
      A magnificent book, wise and timely * Tribune *
      This is history used as its own best argument * Toronto Sun *
      Swift and bracing * Independent *

      Recently viewed products

      © 2026 Book Curl

        • American Express
        • Apple Pay
        • Diners Club
        • Discover
        • Google Pay
        • Maestro
        • Mastercard
        • PayPal
        • Shop Pay
        • Union Pay
        • Visa

        Login

        Forgot your password?

        Don't have an account yet?
        Create account