Las Vegas is a city that has captivated people's imaginations for decades. The bright lights, the sounds of slot machines, and the palpable excitement in the air are all part of the allure. But beyond the glitz and glamour, there is a rich history to explore. If you're interested in learning more about Las Vegas' past, there are plenty of books available on the subject.
When it comes to finding the best books on Las Vegas history, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider what aspect of the city's history you're most interested in. Are you curious about the mob's influence on the city's development? Or perhaps you want to learn about the rise of the mega-resorts on the Strip? Different books will focus on different aspects of the city's history, so it's important to choose one that aligns with your interests.
Another factor to consider is the author's credentials. Do they have a background in history or journalism? Have they written extensively on the subject of Las Vegas? Choosing a book written by an expert in the field can help ensure that you're getting accurate information and thoughtful analysis.
With these factors in mind, we spent hours researching and reading reviews to identify the best books on Las Vegas history. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the city's past, these books are sure to provide an engaging and informative read.
Best Books on Las Vegas History
We've put together a list of the best books on the fascinating history of Las Vegas. From the early days of the Wild West to the rise of the modern casino industry, these books offer a comprehensive look at the city's past. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about Sin City's origins, these books are sure to captivate and inform. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best books on Las Vegas history.
The Money and the Power: The Making of Las Vegas and Its Hold on America
If you're looking for a comprehensive history book on Las Vegas, The Money and the Power: The Making of Las Vegas and Its Hold on America is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The book provides an in-depth look at the history of Las Vegas, including its ties to organized crime and the political corruption that enabled it to thrive.
- The authors, Sally Denton and Roger Morris, conducted extensive research and provide a wealth of information that is both fascinating and informative.
- The book is well-written and engaging, making it an enjoyable read despite its length.
Cons
- At 512 pages, the book is quite long and can be a bit overwhelming for some readers.
- The focus on the political and criminal aspects of Las Vegas history may not be for everyone.
- Some readers may find the book to be a bit dense and difficult to get through.
Overall, we would recommend The Money and the Power: The Making of Las Vegas and Its Hold on America to anyone interested in learning more about the history of Las Vegas. While it may not be the easiest read, the wealth of information contained within its pages makes it a valuable addition to any book collection.
The Happiest Man on Earth: The Beautiful Life of an Auschwitz Survivor
We highly recommend purchasing The Happiest Man on Earth: The Beautiful Life of an Auschwitz Survivor. This audiobook is a moving and inspiring account of Eddie Jaku's survival during the Holocaust and his journey towards happiness.
Pros
- The author's story is incredibly inspiring and provides a unique perspective on the Holocaust.
- The audiobook is well-narrated and easy to listen to.
- The book emphasizes the importance of hope, resilience, and finding joy in life.
Cons
- The book may be too short for some readers, as it is only 3 hours and 47 minutes long.
- The book may be emotionally difficult for some readers due to its subject matter.
- The book does not provide an in-depth historical analysis of the Holocaust.
The Happiest Man on Earth: The Beautiful Life of an Auschwitz Survivor is a powerful and emotional account of Eddie Jaku's experiences during the Holocaust and his journey towards happiness. The book is well-written and the audiobook is well-narrated, making it a compelling and easy-to-listen-to story.
Throughout the book, Jaku emphasizes the importance of hope, resilience, and finding joy in life, even in the face of unimaginable adversity. His story is incredibly inspiring and provides a unique perspective on the Holocaust, as he was able to find happiness and meaning in life despite the horrors he experienced.
However, some readers may find the book too short and wish for a more in-depth analysis of the Holocaust. Additionally, the book may be emotionally difficult for some readers due to its subject matter.
Overall, we highly recommend The Happiest Man on Earth: The Beautiful Life of an Auschwitz Survivor to anyone interested in learning more about the Holocaust and finding inspiration in the face of adversity.
Vegas and the Mob
If you're interested in the history of Las Vegas and the mob's influence on the city, then Vegas and the Mob is worth considering.
Pros
- Provides a comprehensive overview of the mob's impact on Las Vegas
- Covers not only the mob's involvement in casinos but also entertainment and politics
- Includes details on mob activity in other locations such as California, Florida, New York, Chicago, Tahoe, and Reno
Cons
- Writing can be poorly edited at times
- Some information may be repetitive for those already familiar with the topic
- Not an in-depth analysis of any particular aspect of Las Vegas history
Vegas and the Mob covers a lot of ground in its 187 pages, giving readers a broad understanding of the mob's influence on Las Vegas. The book also touches on other locations where the mob was active, providing a wider context for their impact on the city.
One of the strengths of Vegas and the Mob is that it covers not only the mob's involvement in casinos but also entertainment and politics. This gives readers a more complete picture of how the mob operated in Las Vegas and the extent of their influence.
However, the writing can be poorly edited at times, which can be distracting. Additionally, some of the information presented may be repetitive for those already familiar with the topic. While the book provides a good overview, it doesn't delve deeply into any particular aspect of Las Vegas history.
Overall, if you're looking for a quick and comprehensive introduction to the mob's influence on Las Vegas, Vegas and the Mob is a good choice.
Fodor's Las Vegas (Full-color Travel Guide)
If you're planning a trip to Las Vegas and want a comprehensive guidebook, Fodor's Las Vegas (Full-color Travel Guide) is a great option.
Pros
- Up-to-date information on attractions, entertainment, and dining options
- Detailed guide to casinos and gambling
- Compact and easy to carry
Cons
- Some favorite places may not be included
- Print is small and difficult to read
- May not be necessary for those who have visited Las Vegas frequently
We found Fodor's Las Vegas (Full-color Travel Guide) to be a valuable resource for planning our trip. The guidebook is filled with up-to-date information on attractions, entertainment, and dining options, making it easy to plan our itinerary. We also appreciated the detailed guide to casinos and gambling, which provided helpful tips for beginners.
One downside is that some favorite places may not be included in the guidebook, but there are plenty of new places to discover. Additionally, the print is small and may be difficult to read for some readers, even with reading glasses.
Overall, we would recommend Fodor's Las Vegas (Full-color Travel Guide) for anyone planning a trip to Las Vegas who wants a comprehensive guidebook to help them navigate the city.
Las Vegas Then and Now®
If you're a fan of Las Vegas history, Las Vegas Then and Now® is a must-have book for your collection.
Pros
- Beautifully illustrated with vintage and contemporary photos
- Provides a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of Las Vegas
- Well-written and engaging narrative
Cons
- Some readers may find the book too short with only 144 pages
- May not be suitable for those looking for in-depth historical analysis
- Hardcover edition may be a bit heavy for some readers
We were impressed with the stunning visuals in Las Vegas Then and Now®. The book features side-by-side comparisons of vintage and contemporary photos of iconic Las Vegas landmarks, such as the Flamingo, the Sands, and the Golden Nugget. The photos are accompanied by informative captions that provide historical context and interesting tidbits about each location.
The book is part of the Then and Now® series, which aims to showcase the evolution of cities and landmarks over time. The author, Su Kim Chung, does an excellent job of weaving together the history of Las Vegas with the stories of the people who helped shape it. The book is well-written and engaging, making it an enjoyable read for both history buffs and casual readers.
One potential downside of Las Vegas Then and Now® is that it may be too short for some readers. With only 144 pages, the book provides a broad overview of Las Vegas history, but may not satisfy those looking for in-depth analysis. Additionally, while the book is informative, it is not an academic text and may not be suitable for those looking for a more scholarly approach to Las Vegas history.
Overall, we highly recommend Las Vegas Then and Now® to anyone interested in the history of Las Vegas. The book is a beautiful and informative tribute to the city's rich past, and is sure to be a conversation starter on any coffee table.
50 States 500 Scary Places to Visit: On the Hunt to Uncover America's Most Haunted Places
If you're a fan of haunted places and looking to explore the spookiest locations in America, this book is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The book covers all 50 states and provides a list of the most haunted places in each state.
- The book is well-made and has a hardcover.
- The book is informative and provides interesting facts about each location.
Cons
- Some readers may find that the book lacks detailed information about each location.
- Some of the haunted places listed in the book may be difficult to access or no longer exist.
- The book does not include pictures for all the locations.
We recently got our hands on a copy of “50 States 500 Scary Places to Visit: On the Hunt to Uncover America's Most Haunted Places” and were impressed with the amount of information provided. The book is divided into sections for each state and lists the top haunted places to visit in each state. The book is well-made and has a hardcover, making it a great addition to any coffee table or bookshelf.
While the book provides interesting facts about each location, some readers may find that it lacks in-depth information about each place. Additionally, some of the haunted places listed in the book may be difficult to access or no longer exist. Finally, the book does not include pictures for all the locations, which may be a drawback for some readers.
Overall, we think that “50 States 500 Scary Places to Visit: On the Hunt to Uncover America's Most Haunted Places” is a great resource for anyone interested in exploring the spookiest locations in America.
Gambling on a Dream: The Classic Las Vegas Strip 1930-1955
If you're looking for a comprehensive history of the classic Las Vegas Strip, then Gambling on a Dream is the right book for you.
Pros
- Provides an in-depth history of the Las Vegas Strip from 1930-1955
- Offers a unique perspective on the early days of Las Vegas
- Easy to read and understand
Cons
- Some readers may find the book a bit dry
- Some minor grammatical errors throughout the book
- Doesn't cover the entire history of Las Vegas
As someone who has always been fascinated by the history of Las Vegas, I found Gambling on a Dream to be a fascinating read. The book provides a detailed history of the classic Las Vegas Strip, from its early days in the 1930s to the mid-1950s. It's a unique perspective on the early days of Las Vegas, and it's clear that the author has done his research.
One of the things I appreciated about this book is that it's easy to read and understand. The author doesn't use overly technical language or get bogged down in too many details. Instead, he provides a clear and concise history of the Las Vegas Strip that is both informative and interesting.
That being said, some readers may find the book a bit dry. While the history of the Las Vegas Strip is fascinating, it's not necessarily the most exciting topic. Additionally, there are some minor grammatical errors throughout the book that may be distracting for some readers.
Overall, if you're a fan of Las Vegas history, then Gambling on a Dream is definitely worth checking out. It provides a unique perspective on the early days of Las Vegas, and it's an easy and informative read.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying a book on Las Vegas history, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look for:
Content
The first thing to consider is the content of the book. Look for a book that covers the history of Las Vegas comprehensively, from the early days of the city to its modern era. The book should provide a detailed account of the social, cultural, and economic factors that shaped the city over the years. It should also include information on the major events, personalities, and landmarks that played a significant role in Las Vegas' history.
Writing Style
The writing style of the book is also an important factor to consider. Look for a book that is well-written, engaging, and easy to read. The book should be written in a clear and concise style that is accessible to readers of all levels. It should also be free of errors and typos.
Visuals
Many books on Las Vegas history include photographs, maps, and other visual aids. Look for a book that has high-quality visuals that enhance the reading experience. The visuals should be relevant to the content and should provide additional information and context.
Price
Price is also an important consideration when buying a book on Las Vegas history. Look for a book that is reasonably priced and offers good value for money. Consider the length of the book, the quality of the content, and the number of visuals included when evaluating the price.
Overall, when choosing a book on Las Vegas history, look for a product that is comprehensive, well-written, visually appealing, and reasonably priced. By considering these factors, you can ensure that you get the best product for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top books on the history of Las Vegas?
There are several excellent books on the history of Las Vegas, but some of the most popular ones include “The Money and the Power: The Making of Las Vegas and Its Hold on America” by Sally Denton and Roger Morris, “The Battle for Las Vegas: The Law vs. the Mob” by Dennis N. Griffin, and “Las Vegas: An Unconventional History” by Michelle Ferrari.
What are the best Las Vegas history books for beginners?
If you're new to the history of Las Vegas, we recommend starting with “The Rise of the Biggest Little City: An Encyclopedic History of Reno Gaming, 1931-1981” by Dwayne Kling. This book provides an excellent overview of the early history of gaming in Nevada and sets the stage for understanding the rise of Las Vegas as a gambling mecca.
Who are the most renowned authors of Las Vegas history?
Some of the most well-known authors of Las Vegas history include David Schwartz, Hal Rothman, and Michael Green. These authors have published numerous books and articles on the subject and are highly respected in the academic and popular literature communities.
What are the most significant events that shaped Las Vegas history?
There are several key events that shaped the history of Las Vegas, including the legalization of gambling in Nevada in 1931, the construction of the Hoover Dam in the 1930s, the arrival of organized crime in the 1940s and 1950s, and the growth of the city as an entertainment destination in the 1960s and 1970s.
How did Las Vegas become the entertainment capital of the world?
Las Vegas became the entertainment capital of the world thanks to a combination of factors, including the city's favorable tax laws, the presence of world-class performers and venues, and the city's reputation as a place where anything goes. The growth of the city's entertainment industry was also fueled by the rise of television and the popularity of Las Vegas as a filming location.
What is the story behind the construction of the famous Las Vegas Strip?
The Las Vegas Strip was built in the 1940s and 1950s as a way to attract more tourists to the city. The first hotel-casinos on the Strip were the El Rancho Vegas and the Flamingo, both of which opened in 1946. Over the next few decades, more hotels and casinos were built, each one more extravagant than the last, and the Strip became one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
