If you are craving to find out more about the past, History is definitely the perfect subject for you. However, studying history is not only important because it allows us to understand our past, but it also helps us make more sense of the current world.
However, who wants to study history from a boring or difficult book?
Therefore, we’ve compiled a list of the most engaging and interesting history books and apps that are suitable both for educational purposes and for general interest. So, whether you’re a high school student, a business owner or a retired person, we are absolutely sure that you will enjoy all of the items listed here.
- History Adventures, World of Characters, (1750-1900)
The first item on our list falls under the book category, but it’s much more than a standard history book, it’s much more than that! Developed by Spencer Striker, History Adventures is taking world history learning to a whole new level with 3D experiences, data visualizations, sound effects, and amazing graphics. Moreover, you will also be able to test your comprehension by taking a quiz by the end of each topic.
But the best part is that it is absolutely free to download. But hurry up! It’s only free for the next few weeks.
Download History Adventures now on iTunes.
- BBC History Magazine
The UK’s best-selling history magazine is now available on iTunes!
Every month the app publishers assemble leading specialists to explore a variety of historical topics – from ancient civilizations to the two world wars. Every issue includes an extensive reviews section, interesting ideas for cultural trips and breaking history news.
- History In Pictures
This interactive guide formed from the latest pictures of historical events from around the globe is now available for Android users.
You will be able to browse hundreds of historical photos including People, Wars, Events, and Creative moments from world history, that have been uploaded to the app in the last 24 hours.
- Civilisations AR
Yes, another product created by BBC, but this is their first Augmented Reality app. Explore over 30 astonishing artifacts from around the world at the convenience of your home or office.
This free AR app comes from a major collaboration between the BBC, Nexus Studios and over 30 museums from across the UK, and it is now available for both iOS and Android users.
- The Civil War Today
The Civil War Today is an award-winning app created exclusively for the iPad 150 years after the start of the American Civil War. The users can explore the war as it unfolded, one day at a time, with daily updates that let you re-live the events in real-time.
You will also be able to browse thousands of original documents, maps, photos, and newspaper broadsheets.
- The Book of Kells
The Book of Kells is one of the most remarkable illustrated manuscripts and the most complex manuscript of its kind to survive from the early Middle Ages. Currently, it is on display in the Library of Trinity College Dublin.
The app helps users explore the most exquisite details of 21 of the 9th-century manuscript’s best pages at up to 6 times their initial size.
- cdli tablet
Developed by the University of California, “cdli tablet” is exclusively an iPad app that covers the cultural heritage of ancient Mesopotamia. The app includes text and images of ancient Mesopotamia that span 3500 years of human activity and describe the origins of trade, astronomy, and mathematics in ancient times.
The best part – entries are updated daily.
- TimeTours: Uxmal
TimeTours is a time travel guidebook that will take you on a virtual trip to the past using modern 3D reconstructions. Its ‘Now and Then’ time windows let users experience what the cities looked like in the ancient world.
The app costs $5.49 and is available in English, German, Spanish. By the way, it is also currently used in the Cambridge Friends School iPad pilot program.
- The Presidents – Flash Cards
If you’re looking for the fastest and easiest way to learn the Presidents, the Presidents app will definitely have you covered! It contains gorgeous flashcards for all forty-five Presidents of the United States – from George Washington to Donald Trump.
And you will also be able to test your knowledge by turning the information off in the “Tap to Reveal” mode.
- Kings & Queens: 1,000 Years of British Royalty
This easy to use iTunes app contains both magnificent digital portraits of Britain’s royal family and comprehensive descriptions of their characters and accomplishments.
Telling the story of the British monarchy from William the Conqueror to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, this is a perfect starting point for anyone with an interest in the Royal Family.
With these apps and books, you will definitely have an endless supply of historical facts and stories. In particular, at History Adventures, we go the extra mile to take your history learning to the next level.
In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments which app or book you’ve enjoyed most.