Battle of Jhelum (Hydaspes) Spring, 326 B.C.

Context Alexander, having conquered the Persian Empire, now looked to India for further conquest. India consisted of several states with individual rulers. Porus ruled the region to the north-east of the Indus River

Situation Porus was camped on the eastern side of the Jhelum (Hydaspes) River. The river was swollen from melting snow and was too deep to cross on horseback Porus also had 200 elephants, which would frighten the horses trying to cross.

Solution Alexander sent many feint crossings Porus stopped responding to Alexander’s feints Alex Porus

Crossing the river Alexander crosses but arrives on the island, thinking it is the other side Alexander’s men eventually cross on a luckily found ford, in water up to their necks. Alex Porus didn’t believe that this crossing was the main one. Alex Porus Craterus Alexander leaves Craterus with a large force and takes a detachment north to a ford where an island obscures his crossing from Porus Porus thought that Alexander would be with Craterus’ force

Across the River Porus sent his son to deal with the ‘small crossing’. Porus’ son died and the counter-attack failed Porus’ Son Alex Porus then attacked with the whole army Porus

Course of the Battle Coenus As the infantry advanced, the elephants tore through their ranks. Infantry Alexander sent Coenus to pass on the enemy right to attack the cavalry from the rear Alexander ordered his infantry to advance Alexander sent his Cavalry in on the enemy left, wanting Porus to move his cavalry to that flank Archers Archers Cavalry As Coenus rode behind the Indian lines, the infantry retreated behind the elephants. Porus responded as desired and moved his right flank cavalry to the left Elephants Chariots Chariots Cavalry Infantry Cavalry

End Phase The Indian cavalry are encircled by the Macedon cavalry. In the confusion the elephants cause massive casualties in the Indian ranks, the Indian cavalry is all but destroyed The cavalry then focus on the infantry Some of the Indians see a chance to escape, but Craterus comes over the river with his force and eliminates the deserters. Cavalry Porus remained with his army until he was wounded, he retired on his elephant, and then surrendered Cavalry Infantry Craterus Cavalry Infantry Deserters Coenus Elephants

Post-Battle When Alexander and Porus meet, Alexander asks Porus how he wished to be treated. Porus replies ‘Like a king’ Alexander grants his request and maintains him as ruler of his lands. This battle showed how Alexander could adapt his plans, deal with unforeseen circumstances and outthink his opponent.

Sources NCEA Level 3 Classical Studies Study Guide. Pages 294-5