Based on a series of University lectures from Historian Margaret
MacMillan, "The Uses and Abuses of History" is a brief synopsis of
the current trends in historiography, both good and bad.
In particular, MacMillan is concerned about the "abuse" of history
for nationalistic purposes. The dangers of revisionism through
selective emphasis and narrow interpretations which according to
MacMillan have been used by demagogue leaders to further their
jingoistic agendas.
On the positive side, MacMillan discusses the recent popularity of
genealogies in this increasingly post-modern society that we live
in. Again, however, MacMillan cautions us about the tendency to
narcissism without seeing the bigger picture.
MacMillan's writing is clear and easy to follow. Overall, this is a
great book for the average reader to understand a little more about
historiography and the challenges the contemporary professional
Historian faces.