Alexander the Great

The Rise of Macedonia After the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta the two city-states just tried to control each other. While fighting continues amongst them a new empire called Macedonia is on the rise. King Phillip II begins to establish his power by conquering Greece. Phillip is an accomplished assassin and kills off other competitors for the throne He is captured by the Thebans 369-367, and learns Greek military tactics here. King Phillip the II was the father of Alexander the Great. Alexander’s mother Olympias dreams of an auspicious future for the child in her womb. Olympias (Alexander’s Mother), on the eve of the consummation of her marriage to Philip, dreamed that her womb was struck by a thunder bolt, causing a flame that spread "far and wide" before dying away.

Greek World in 363 BC

Phillip’s Death After Phillip’s death Alexander inherits the throne at the age of 20. He was taught military tactics by Aristotle. Greece revolts! They no longer want to be ruled by Macedonians. Thebes was made example of: Alexander crushed its army, and sold the people into slavery and burned the city to the ground.

Beginnings of an Empire! Alexander wanted all of Persia, and started a campaign after he dealt with all Greek revolts. He would find himself at odds with Darius III of Persia.

Alexander’s Army Persian Army Small Well Trained Fiercely Loyal to Alexander Large Disorganized No common language

Alexander’s Major Battles Battle of the Granicus River, 334 BC. Darius III didn’t take Alexander seriously, and sent a general in his stead. Alexander came very close to dying in battle, but he overcame his injuries to be victorious. Battle of Issus, 333 BC. Darius III now is angered and will confront him at the Battle of Issus. However, he still doesn’t take Alexander seriously, and even brings his family to the battle site. Darius loses the battle and flees without his family. Alexander captures them as prisoners of war, but treats them very well. Darius fled the battle, causing his army to break, and left behind his wife, his two daughters, his mother Sisygambis, and a fabulous amount of treasure

Battle of Issus Map Alexander breaks the main line, and Darius flees for his life. Troops are so terrified they surrender. Battle is over within moments.

Alexander’s Famous Conquests Siege at Tyre Alexander wanted to sacrifice to the Gods for his victories, but Tyrians refuse to let him into the city. They feared he would take over the city, so they would not let him sacrifice an offering at the temple. This angers him, and he decides to conquer the island. It takes about six to seven months to build bridges (moles), and mean while Alexander lays siege to the whole city. Alexander kills all military aged men, and enslaves all women and children.

Alexander takes Persia Alexander is able to take Persia, and begin his empire. Alexander burns Persepolis “Persian capital” to the ground. He pushes on into India where his campaign turns sour. His soldiers are starting to doubt him.

Bucephalus Alexander the Greats’ horse, and he tamed the wild stallion himself. As the story goes the horse was afraid of its own shadow, Alexander realized this and made blinders for the horse. It died at the Battle of Hydaspes, the last battle Alexander would ever fight in. Bucephalus was Alexander the Great's horse and one of the most famous actual horses of antiquity. Bucephalus died after the Battle of the Hydaspes in 326 BC,

Army Revolts! The soldiers are tired of fighting and want to return home to see family and friends. Alexander tries to persuade the army to continue on, but the men are ready to return to Macedonia.

Alexander becomes sick and dies! Many have debated whether his death was intentional or natural. Poison is a possible answer because troops were ready to return home. Malaria is another possibility because of the climate in India; misquotes are present in high numbers.

No Successor for Alexander The Breakup of Alexander’s Empire