It seems that everyone and their mother has a biography out any more. Steve Jobs died and his was out within a week or two. Sure, the Kim Kardashian bio probably isn't worth giving to your students as a learning tool, but there are people from history that can be educational tools.

Scientists

The foundation modern science were laid by a few distinct individuals. Sir Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein developed the fundamental laws for both normal and relativistic. They created the basis for most of the scientific discoveries.

Politicians

You may not have liked him, but every president has a book written about him after his years in office. Students can learn about the decision made during the Iraq War from book about both the Bush presidents. Learn how Abraham Lincoln became Honest Abe and how Kennedy handled the Bay of Pigs.

Memorable People

There are extraordinary people out there that may not have had the luxury of being a politician or a scientist, but still made a significant impact on society. Masters of business like Rockefeller and Carnegie ruled with world of business. Mother Theresa spent her life helping others and Simon Wiesenthal lived through the worst part of history and spent the rest of his life making sure people never forget.

Never underestimate the power of biographies because the realities of life are more educational than any fictional book or movie.