If you are looking for an interesting and fun way to learn about history without overwhelming yourself with the details, A Flag Worth Dying For: The Power and Politics of National Symbols may be what you need.
The author, Tim Marshall, who also wrote Prisoners of Geography, explains how flags (and the power they symbolise) are used to unite and divide populations and intimidate enemies. The book is easy to read with a healthy dose of humour to spice things up.