Birth and early life
Alexander the Great was born in 356 BCE in Pella, the capital of
Macedon (modern-day Greece). He was the son of King Philip II of Macedon and
Queen Olympia’s. From a young age, Alexander showed remarkable intelligence and
ambition. His tutor was the philosopher Aristotle, who instilled in him a love
for learning, particularly in subjects like philosophy, science, and the arts.
Alexander’s early education also emphasized leadership, military tactics, and
history.
Ascension to the throne
At the age of 20, Alexander succeeded his father, King Philip II,
after Philip was assassinated in 336 BCE. Although young, Alexander quickly
proved his capability, consolidating power and suppressing revolts. His
father’s work had already prepared the kingdom for expansion, and Alexander was
ready to continue the ambitious plans to grow Macedonian influence.
Conquest of the Persian Empire
In 334 BCE, Alexander began his legendary military campaign
against the Persian Empire, which was ruled by King Darius III. His first major
victory came at the Battle of Gracious in 334 BCE, followed by
a decisive victory at the Battle of Issus in 333 BCE. After a
series of successful engagements, Alexander besieged and conquered the famous
Persian city of Tyre (332 BCE), and then moved into Egypt,
where he was hailed as a liberator.
In Egypt, he visited the Oracle of Amun at Siwa in
the Libyan Desert, where the priests declared him the son of the god Amun,
further solidifying his divine status in the eyes of many. Alexander then
founded the city of Alexandria, which would become one of the most
important cities of the ancient world, serving as a center for Greek culture
and knowledge.
The fall of Persia
In 331 BCE, Alexander achieved a crucial victory at the Battle
of Gaugamela, decisively defeating Darius III. This victory marked the fall
of the Persian Empire, and Alexander became its new ruler. He continued to push
further eastward, eventually reaching Babylon, Susa,
and Persepolis, the Persian capital, which he burned in symbolic
revenge for the Persian destruction of Athens.
The Indian Campaign and the Battle of the Hydaspes
Alexander's army moved into India in 326 BCE, where they
encountered King Porus at the Battle of the Hydaspes (modern-day
Pakistan). Despite the difficult terrain and heavy monsoon rains, Alexander’s
forces defeated Porus, and he was impressed by the Indian king’s bravery. After
this victory, Alexander continued to push east, but his soldiers, weary from
years of campaigning, refused to go further and mutinied at the Beas River.
The Return West and Death
Reluctantly, Alexander turned back and began his journey home, but
he fell ill in Babylon in 323 BCE. After a few days of fever,
he died at the age of 32. His sudden death left the vast empire without a clear
successor, leading to infighting among his generals. Eventually, the empire was
divided into regions controlled by his former commanders, known as the Diadochi.
Legacy
Alexander's conquests had profound effects on world history. His
campaigns spread Greek culture, language, and ideas across the known world,
creating the Hellenistic Era. This period saw the blending of Greek
and Eastern cultures, leading to significant advancements in science, art, and
philosophy. Cities like Alexandria became centres of learning,
attracting scholars and scientists.
Alexander's military tactics are still studied today in military
academies, and his ability to inspire loyalty in his men has been admired for
centuries. His image became legendary, influencing not only subsequent military
leaders but also kings and emperors throughout history.
Sources and Further Reading
Wikipedia's entry on Alexander the Great
The Campaigns of Alexander by Arrian, one of the key historical texts documenting
Alexander's life and military achievements.
Alexander the Great: His Life and His Mysterious Death by Anthony Everitt offers a detailed
narrative of his life and legacy.