Why Not Let The Leaning Tower Collapse

[Willow]

Why Not Let The Leaning Tower Collapse?: and Other Essays Examining What We Think of as ‘History’
by Daniel Snowman

Ever stopped to wonder why “history” keeps changing, Why Not Let The Leaning Tower Collapse?: and other essays examining what we think of as 'history' even though the past itself never does?

In this thought-provoking collection, Daniel Snowman, a master of cultural and social history, dives deep into the fascinating question of how we create, remember, and sometimes distort our understanding of the past. From questions of heritage and authenticity to the role of art, memory, and even monuments, every essay invites you to rethink what we really mean when we talk about history.

What readers will take away:

A sharper sense of how history is written, and rewritten, through time.

Awareness of how personal bias, politics, and power shape what we choose to remember.

The courage to question why certain stories are preserved and others forgotten.

A more compassionate view of humanity’s triumphs, tragedies, and contradictions.

A reminder that history isn’t just about the past, it’s about who we choose to be today.

Powerful lessons inside:

Understanding history is the key to understanding ourselves.

Ignoring the past leads to misunderstanding the present.

“Heritage” can enlighten, or deceive, depending on how it’s framed.

Authenticity sometimes demands letting go of what’s comfortable or beautiful.

This isn’t a typical history book. It’s a conversation, one that challenges, questions, and enlightens in equal measure. Whether you’re a historian, a reader of reflective nonfiction, or simply someone who loves asking “why?”, this book will leave you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page.

⭐ A truly eye-opening read for anyone who believes the past still speaks to the present.