Best Belgian History Books of 2026

King Leopold's Ghost is an enthralling account of King Leopold II's genocidal plundering of the Congo River region, which ultimately slashed its population by ten million. The book is a haunting portrait of a megalomaniac and the brave individuals who fought against him. The author, Adam Hochschild, skillfully brings the largely untold story alive with fascinating characters and intense drama. This book is a must-read for those interested in the history of colonial Africa and the first great human rights movement of the twentieth century.

Amsterdam: A History of the World's Most Liberal City by Russell Shorto explores the history and unique geography of Amsterdam, delving into the city's enduring battle against the sea and the democratic philosophy it has fostered. Shorto weaves in his own experiences of living in Amsterdam to provide an engaging and surprising account of the city's evolution. This book is a masterpiece, fusing large cultural trends with intimately personal stories, and is a pleasure to savor on many levels. It is a must-read for anyone interested in Dutch history and the evolution of liberalism.

The Other Renaissance: From Copernicus to Shakespeare by Paul Strathern is an enlightening history book that sheds light on the northern European Renaissance in art, science, and philosophy. The author takes the reader on a journey through the major figures of the "Other Renaissance," including Copernicus, Gutenberg, Luther, Catherine de' Medici, Rabelais, van Eyck, and Shakespeare. Strathern shows how this period of transformation rivaled the Italian Renaissance and played a significant role in shaping our modern world. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in European history and culture.

The Scramble for Africa: White Man's Conquest of the Dark Continent from 1876 to 1912 is a 738-page book that tells the story of the colonization of Africa by European powers. Written by Thomas Pakenham, the book is a well-researched account of the period, featuring some of the most mythologized characters of the 19th-century, including Livingstone, Stanley, and Rhodes. Pakenham's writing style is both compassionate and detached, providing an effective combination of judgement and detachment. Highly readable, this book is a phenomenal achievement that offers a comprehensive picture of heroism and horror.

DK Eyewitness Amsterdam (Travel Guide) is a comprehensive guide that takes readers on a journey through the vibrant city of Amsterdam. From exploring the picturesque canal-side mansions to indulging in the city's rich culture, this guide provides readers with expert-led insights, detailed maps, and easy-to-follow itineraries. The book is also lightweight and portable, making it the perfect travel companion. The guide has been updated regularly to ensure the information is as up-to-date as possible following the COVID-19 outbreak. Overall, this guide is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Amsterdam.

This book, titled "L’invention de l’eau embouteillée: Qualités, normes et marchés de l’eau en bouteille en Europe, XIXe–XXe siècles" is an insightful analysis of the history of bottled water in Europe from the mid-19th century to the present day. The author examines the industrial and commercial techniques used to produce and market bottled water and how it has become a global symbol of consumerism. The book also delves into the interplay between norms and markets in six European countries. It is a unique and informative read that sheds light on the complex process of how a product, which we consume every day, came to be.

DK Eyewitness Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and Antwerp Travel Guide is a comprehensive guide that will help travelers make the most of their trip to these beautiful destinations. The guide is packed with insider tips, detailed itineraries, and "don't-miss" destination highlights, making it easy to plan the perfect trip. It includes guided walking tours, local drink, and dining specialties to try, things to do, and places to eat, drink, and shop by area. With hundreds of full-color photographs, hand-drawn illustrations, and custom maps, this guide truly shows you these places like no one else can. Highly recommended for anyone planning a trip to Brussels, Bruges, Ghent, and Antwerp.

"Exterminate All the Brutes" by Sven Lindqvist is a powerful and haunting examination of Europe's history of genocide in Africa. Using Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness as a starting point, Lindqvist takes the reader on a journey through the colonial past, interwoven with a modern-day travelogue. The author exposes the roots of genocide in Africa, revealing how fantasies of white superiority and actual extermination informed colonialism and racist ideology. This book is a crucial reckoning with a past that still echoes in our collective psyche, compelling us to acknowledge the exploitation and brutality at the heart of our modern, globalized society.

DK Eyewitness Belgium and Luxembourg (Travel Guide) provides a comprehensive guide for travelers visiting these unique countries. The guide offers detailed itineraries, guided walking tours, and visitor information for museums, along with insights into history and culture. The book includes hundreds of full-color photographs, hand-drawn illustrations, and custom maps that illuminate every page. The restaurant and hotel listings highlight DK Choice special recommendations. Overall, this guide is an excellent resource for anyone planning a trip to Belgium and Luxembourg.

Waterloo: The History of Four Days, Three Armies and Three Battles by Bernard Cornwell is a meticulously researched and thrilling account of the Battle of Waterloo. Cornwell, a celebrated novelist, combines his storytelling skills with historical accuracy to provide a riveting hour-by-hour account of the fateful day. The book also sheds new light on the private thoughts of Napoleon and the Duke of Wellington, as well as the ordinary officers and soldiers. Published to coincide with the bicentenary in 2015, Waterloo is a tense and gripping story of heroism and tragedy – and of the final battle that determined the fate of Europe.