There are some books that are just good reads, and then there are others that fundamentally change the course of American history.

Business Insider compiled a list of books— including novels, memoirs, nonfiction works, and photography collections — that led to policy changes or a larger awareness of political issues.

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Here are a few literary works (organized by publication year) that moved the needle in powerful ways:

12 books that forever transformed America as we know it

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Check them out, read the brief overviews, and then order and read them today–these are some powerful titles!

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