Alexander The Great

Introduction

“I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion.”
Alexander the Great, born in 356 BCE in Pella, Macedonia, was the son of King Philip II of Macedon and
Queen Olympia, daughter of King Neoptolemus. In 336 BCE, following the assassination of his father,
Alexander ascended to the throne and united the Greek city-states under his rule. Consequently, he also
led the Corinthian League, a military alliance of Greek states, and embarked on a series of conquests
that would change the course of history. Not only did Alexander succeed his father, but he also inherited
his mother Olympias' ambition and determination.

Early Life and Education

First, growing up in the royal court alongside his sister, Alexander was raised by a nurse named Lanike
and tutored by strict Leonidas and Lysimachus of Acarnania. As a young prince, he displayed remarkable
intelligence and a keen interest in learning. Alexander's early education was well-rounded. His father,
King Philip II, taught him warfare and strategy, while his mother, Olympias, instilled in him religious
beliefs. At the age of 16, Alexander began studying under the famous philosopher Aristotle, who tutored
him in various subjects, including morality. This comprehensive education helped shape Alexander into a
skilled and knowledgeable leader.

Adulthood and Marriages

Second, by age 30, Alexander had created one of the largest empires in history, stretching from Greece
to northwestern India. After that, he was undefeated in battle, and his military achievements became
legendary. Moreover, his conquests led to the cultural diffusion and syncretism that characterized the
Hellenistic period, including Greco-Buddhism and Hellenistic Judaism. Additionally, Alexander's most
notable military campaigns include the overthrow of the Persian Empire and the establishment of
Macedonian colonies in the region. Finally, further expanding his empire and influence, he became the
king of Persia, Babylon, and Asia.

Accomplishments

Third, throughout his reign, Alexander founded more than twenty cities, serving as centers of culture,
trade, and administration, and contributing to the spread of Hellenistic culture and ideas. One of his
most notable achievements was the founding of Alexandria in Egypt, a city he named after himself.
Located at the mouth of the Nile River, Alexandria became a cosmopolitan hub and a symbol of
Alexander's ambition and influence. During his conquests, Alexander also established cities in Asia Minor
(modern-day Turkey) and other regions he conquered, further expanding his empire, and promoting the
exchange of ideas and culture between different civilizations. Later, these cities played a crucial role in
shaping the Hellenistic world and its lasting impact on history.

Fourth, Alexander encouraged favorable comparisons of his accomplishments with those of Dionysus
or Heracles, eventually becoming convinced of his divinity. He received divine honors in Egypt and other
Greek cities, further solidifying his legendary status. Alexander's legacy includes the cultural diffusion
and syncretism that his conquests engendered and the establishment of the Hellenistic world of
territorial kingdoms. He became a classical hero in the mold of Achilles, featuring prominently in the
historical and mythical traditions of both Greek and non-Greek cultures.

Death and Conclusion

On June 13, 323 BCE, Alexander the Great died of malaria in Babylon, marking the start of the
Hellenistic period. His death led to the division of his empire among his generals, known as the Diadochi,
and the eventual decline of the Macedonian Empire. Despite his military accomplishments and enduring
successes in battle, Alexander failed to win the respect of some of his subjects and had some of the
people closest to him murdered.

In conclusion, Alexander the Great's life and achievements have left an indelible mark on history. His
military conquests, cultural influence, and legendary status continue to inspire and captivate the world,
making him one of human history's most famous and influential figures.