Why Not Let The Leaning Tower Collapse

[Amina]

Why Not Let The Leaning Tower Collapse?: and other essays examining what we think of as 'history'Daniel Snowman
Why Not Let The Leaning Tower Collapse?: and Other Essays Examining What We Think of as ‘History’
by Daniel Snowman

What makes something history, and who decides what’s worth remembering?

In Why Not Let The Leaning Tower Collapse?, Daniel Snowman delivers a series of sharp, fascinating essays that challenge the way we view the past. He explores how history is shaped, filtered, and often rewritten, not by time itself, but by people, politics, and perspective.

From the idea of “heritage” to the question of whether certain monuments or tragedies should remain untouched, Snowman encourages readers to think critically about what we preserve and why.

Readers will gain:

A richer understanding of how historical narratives are created and controlled.

Insight into how art, culture, and memory influence what we call “truth.”

A fresh appreciation for how the past and present continuously shape each other.

Awareness of the ethical dilemmas behind heritage and preservation.

Inspiration to think beyond the surface of accepted history.

Lessons that stand out:

History is not a record, it’s a reflection of those who tell it.

Forgetting the past can be just as dangerous as distorting it.

Heritage isn’t always about beauty; sometimes it’s about honesty.

True understanding comes from questioning, not just remembering.

With eloquence and insight, Snowman turns history from a static subject into a living conversation, one that invites readers to think deeply about the stories we tell and the truths we choose to keep.

A brilliant, mind-expanding read for anyone who loves history, philosophy, and the art of asking “why.”