...
  • About
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
  • RSS
  • en_US
    • ar
    • bn_BD
    • zh_CN
    • fr_FR
    • de_DE
    • hi_IN
    • it_IT
    • pt_PT
    • ru_RU
    • es_ES
    • ur
Friday, January 27, 2023
  • Login
THX News | Global News, Travel & Education.
  • USA
  • Canada
  • Central America
  • South America
  • Europe
  • Middle East
  • Africa
  • Asia
  • Oceania
No Result
View All Result
THX News | Global News, Travel & Education.
  • USA
  • Canada
  • Central America
  • South America
  • Europe
  • Middle East
  • Africa
  • Asia
  • Oceania
No Result
View All Result
Contact us
THX News | Global News, Travel & Education.
No Result
View All Result
Home Education History

Alexander the Great: The Rise and Fall of an Empire.

picturebox1 by picturebox1
4 months ago
in History
Reading Time: 6 mins read
A A
Donate
The statue of Alexander the Great at the waterfront promenade of Thessaloniki, Greece.

Bust of Alexander the Great. Photo by Nick Vlachos. Unsplash.

0
VIEWS
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Table of Contents

  • Who was Alexander the Great?
  • His Impact on the World and Why he is Still Remembered Today?
  • The Political World Before Alexander the Great.
  • The Early Years: Alexander’s Childhood and Education.
  • The Macedonian Campaign: How Alexander Became King of Macedonia.
  • The Egyptian Empire: Alexander’s Rule in Egypt.
  • The Persian Campaign: How Alexander Conquered the Persian Empire.
  • The Indian Campaign: How Alexander Invaded India.
  • The Return Home: Alexander’s Final Years and Death.
  • What Legacy did Alexander the Great Leave Behind?

 

Who was Alexander the Great?

Alexander the Great was one of the most successful military commanders in history. He was born in 356 BC in Pella, Macedonia, and was educated by the famous philosopher Aristotle. At the age of twenty, he became the king of Macedonia after his father was assassinated. He then embarked on a series of military campaigns that resulted in the conquest of most of the known world at that time.

 

Mosiac of Alexander the Great of Macedonian
Early Mosaic. Photo by Archer10. Flickr.

 

His Impact on the World and Why he is Still Remembered Today?

Alexander the Great was one of the most successful military commanders in history. He was born in 356 BC in Pella, Macedonia, and was educated by Aristotle. At the age of 20, he became the king of Macedonia after his father’s death.

During his reign, Alexander conquered much of the known world. He defeated the Persians and drove them out of Asia Minor. He then invaded India but was forced to turn back because his troops mutinied.

After Alexander died in 323 BC, his empire was divided among his generals. However, his legacy lived on and he is still remembered today as one of the greatest conquerors in history.

 

The Political World Before Alexander the Great.

In the centuries before the reign of Alexander the Great, the political world was one of great turmoil and change. Kingdoms rose and fell, and new empires emerged. This was a time of great upheaval, and it was difficult to predict which way the political winds would blow.

One of the most powerful empires of this time was that of the Persians, who ruled over a vast territory. The Persians were a major force to be reckoned with, and their empire was a major power in the political world.

Another major power during this time was that of the Greeks. The Greeks were a proud people who had their own strong sense of identity. They were often at odds with the Persians, but they were also a major power in their own right.

The political world before Alexander the Great was one of great change and turmoil.

 

Woodcut of Aristotle and Alexander the Great
Aristotle. Photo by Provenance Online Project. Flickr.

 

The Early Years: Alexander’s Childhood and Education.

Alexander the Great was one of the most successful military commanders in history. He was born on July 20th 356 BC in Pella, the ancient capital of Macedon. His father was Philip II, who became king of Macedon in 359 BC. His mother was Olympias, a princess from Epirus.

Aristotle was Alexander’s tutor in 343 BC  though he had other tutors at a younger age. Aristotle taught him many things, including logic, ethics, and rhetoric. Alexander particularly liked reading Homer’s Iliad and it is said he got some of his aspirations from the book.

Aristotle also introduced him to the world of science and philosophy. The values that Aristotle taught Alexander helped turn him from a young rebel into one of the greatest conquerors of all time.

The Macedonian Campaign: How Alexander Became King of Macedonia.

When Philip II of Macedon was murdered in 336 BC, his twenty-year-old son Alexander inherited a powerful yet volatile kingdom. With an experienced army of 40,000 at his disposal, Alexander began his campaign to conquer the Persian Empire in 334 BC.

In the first year of his campaign, Alexander achieved resounding success against the Persians. He defeated Darius III in two key battles, at Issus and Gaugamela. This allowed him to capture the Persian capital of Susa and claim the title of ‘King of Kings’.

Alexander the Great in a battle scene
Alexander the Great battle scene. Photo by Константин. Pixabay.

 

The Egyptian Empire: Alexander’s Rule in Egypt.

In 331 BC, Alexander the Great began his campaign to conquer the Persian Empire. After defeating the Persians, he turned his attention to Egypt. In November of that year, Alexander’s army defeated the Egyptians at the Battle of Gaugamela. After his victory, Alexander became the Pharaoh of Egypt.

Alexander’s rule in Egypt was characterized by peace and prosperity. He instituted several reforms, including establishing Alexandria as a center of learning. He also commissioned the construction of a new capital city, Alexandria, which became one of the largest and most prosperous cities in the world. Under Alexander’s rule, Egypt became one of the richest and most powerful empires in the world.

However, after Alexander died his empire quickly fell apart. His generals fought each other for control over his vast territories.

The Persian Campaign: How Alexander Conquered the Persian Empire.

In the spring of 334 BC, Alexander the Great led his army on a campaign to conquer the Persian Empire. The Persians had been one of the most powerful empires in the world for centuries, and Alexander was determined to add them to his growing list of conquests.

After defeating the Persian army at the Battle of Gaugamela, he captured their capital, Susa. He then moved on to capture Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of the Persian Empire. This was a major victory for Alexander, as it effectively ended Persian rule over their vast empire.

Scene inspired by the Battles of Alexander the Great - Attributed to Panayiotis Douxaras (1662-1729)
Painting attributed to Panayiotis Douxaras. Photo by Tilemahos Efthimiadis. Flickr.

 

The Indian Campaign: How Alexander Invaded India.

In 327 BC, Alexander the Great crossed the Hindu Kush Mountains into the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent. This campaign was one of his most ambitious military ventures, and it would ultimately prove to be his undoing. Nevertheless, Alexander’s march into India was a remarkable feat of endurance and perseverance.

Forged in the crucible of battle, Alexander was a master strategist and tactician. He quickly conquered Persia and Egypt before embarking on his Indian campaign. After crossing the Hindu Kush, he met with fierce resistance from the local tribes. However, Alexander prevailed thanks to his military prowess and the strength of his forces.

The Indian campaign was one of Alexander’s most impressive achievements. Through his military genius, he was able to conquer a vast and unfamiliar territory. However, this campaign would also ultimately lead to his downfall.

The Return Home: Alexander’s Final Years and Death.

On the 13th of June 323 BC, Alexander the Great is thought to have died of Malaria in Babylon. He was just 32 year of age.

Alexander’s body was returned to his homeland of Macedonia and buried in a tomb fit for a king.

After his death, his body was mummified and placed in a golden coffin. In his will, Alexander had asked that he be buried in Egypt.

However, due to the political situation at the time of his death, his body was instead taken back to Macedonia by his general and companion Ptolemy I Soter. Ptolemy placed Alexander’s body in a glass sarcophagus in Alexandria.

The location of Alexander’s tomb has been lost over time and it is now unknown where his remains are located.

 

Stone bust of Alexander the Great
Photo by Xuan Che. Flickr.

 

What Legacy did Alexander the Great Leave Behind?

In conclusion, Alexander the Great was one of the most successful military commanders in history. He conquered most of the known world and established the largest empire in the ancient world. His legacy is complex and contested, but his impact on Western culture is undeniable.

Many of the countries he conquered remain part of the same country today. The city of Alexandria, Egypt is named after him.

 

Sources: THX News, Britannica & Biography.

 


Tags: Alexander the Great
picturebox1

picturebox1

I'm Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder & CEO of THX News. A dual national, British-American and former antiquarian bookseller. Proud husband and father to 6.

With THX News, I'm driven to bring you the latest news with passion and point-of-view that is both original and trustworthy.

Related Posts

Hernan Cortes. Photo By José Lira. Flickr.
History

The Surprising Impact of Hernando Corte’s Conquests

January 21, 2023
30 Dec 1972 - Chairman Mao Meets Foreign Minister Nguyen Thi Binh. Peking, China by Manhhai. Flickr.
History

Discovering Chairman Mao: Unshackling the Chinese People

January 20, 2023
Estatua de Francisco Pizarro. Photo By Rogelio_Gómez. Flickr.
History

Exploring the Life and Legacy of Francisco Pizarro

January 20, 2023
Asoka. Photo By Joana Vandelas. Flickr.
History

Exploring the Secrets of Asoka’s Empire

January 18, 2023
Catherine the Great in all her spendor. Photo by Vigilius Eriksen. Pixabay.
History

The Historic Legacy of Catherine the Great

January 17, 2023
Simon Bolivar. Photo By Miɔho. Unsplash.
History

Uncovering the Legacy of Simon Bolivar 

January 17, 2023
  • Trending
  • Comments
  • Latest
Immigrants & Refugees Welcome. Photo by Adam Fagen. Flickr.

US Government Announces New Refugee Program – Welcome Corps

January 20, 2023
Holy Father Augustine. Photo by Fr Lawrence Lew, O.P. Flickr.

Exploring the History of St. Augustine

January 23, 2023
Hernan Cortes. Photo By José Lira. Flickr.

The Surprising Impact of Hernando Corte’s Conquests

January 21, 2023
Natalie Portman. Photo By donna rowland. Flickr.

Natalie Portman: An Inspiring American actress

January 23, 2023
Moses holding a new born baby by the banks of the Nile

How Moses Freed the Jewish People from Slavery.

January 3, 2023
Adolf Hitler, Along with Mussolini's son-in-law, Count Galeazzo, and Joachim von Ribbentrop, attend a Nazi Party rally, some time in the 1930s. Photo by Jared Enos. Flickr.

Adolf Hitler’s Involvement Before and During World War II

January 8, 2023
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly speach. Photo by Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office. Wikimedia

UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly’s Full Speech – 12 December 2022.

December 12, 2022
Bar Refaeli. Photo By Ricardo Campos. Flickr.

Uncovering the Life of Businesswoman and Actress, Bar Refaeli

January 23, 2023
Bangladesh's Padma Bridge. Photo By Rezuanur Rahman Mubin. Unsplash.

Bangladesh’s Padma Bridge: A Big Achievement Connecting People and Economy.

January 27, 2023
Endless love. Photo by Shimal Ahmed. Flickr.

Where Do Asian Women Find Genuine Men Online?

January 27, 2023
Judith Rakers. Photo By ruben solaz. Flickr.

Judith Rakers: The Journey of a German Journalist

January 26, 2023
Gallery of Beautiful Asian Women. Photo by LoversBee. THX News.

Why Do Pinoy Date Older White Men?

January 26, 2023
Russian Revolution of 1917. Bolsheviks in Moscow. Red Guard. Photo by Rosa Luxemburg. Flickr.

The Russian Revolution of 1917 – A Historic Transformation

January 26, 2023
Philippine Economic Zone Authority Supporting Chinese Filipino Entrepreneurs. Photo by PIA.

PEZA Seeks New Ecozones Through Young Entrepreneurs

January 25, 2023
Group photo for the meeting in South Africa. Photo by African Mayoral Leadership Initiative.

“Let Us Act to Transform Africa’s cities”—African Dev. Bank President to African Mayors

January 25, 2023
Think tank, Asia House, London. Photo by Mark Hillary. Flickr.

UK Minister Gives Jan 2023 Indo-Pacific Speech at Asia House

January 25, 2023

World News & Stories

Gallery of Beautiful Asian Women. Photo by LoversBee. THX News.
Dating & Relationships

Why Do Pinoy Date Older White Men?

January 26, 2023
Russian Revolution of 1917. Bolsheviks in Moscow. Red Guard. Photo by Rosa Luxemburg. Flickr.
Wars & Revolutions

The Russian Revolution of 1917 – A Historic Transformation

January 26, 2023
Philippine Economic Zone Authority Supporting Chinese Filipino Entrepreneurs. Photo by PIA.
Philippines

PEZA Seeks New Ecozones Through Young Entrepreneurs

January 25, 2023
Group photo for the meeting in South Africa. Photo by African Mayoral Leadership Initiative.
South Africa

“Let Us Act to Transform Africa’s cities”—African Dev. Bank President to African Mayors

January 25, 2023
Think tank, Asia House, London. Photo by Mark Hillary. Flickr.
Business

UK Minister Gives Jan 2023 Indo-Pacific Speech at Asia House

January 25, 2023
National Health Service medicines with a smile. Photo by Neil Moralee. Flickr.
Medical

UK Gov Launches Point of Care Medicine Production

January 25, 2023
Diana Amft. Photo By Cineplexx AT. Flickr.
Celebrity

Diana Amft – An Inspiration to Women Around the World

January 26, 2023
Lena Gercke. Photo By drno_manchuria (simonsaw). Flickr.
Celebrity

The Style Secrets of Lena Gercke

January 26, 2023
THX News | Global News, Travel & Education.

THX News is a free global news & information service.

All News is from Informed Sources, so you can make your own judgements.

Trending

  • Immigrants & Refugees Welcome. Photo by Adam Fagen. Flickr.

    US Government Announces New Refugee Program – Welcome Corps

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Exploring the History of St. Augustine

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • The Surprising Impact of Hernando Corte’s Conquests

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0

Explore

  • Editorial (1)
  • Education (129)
    • Antiques (4)
    • Art & Design (2)
    • Books & Authors (4)
    • British Prime Ministers (1)
    • Company Histories (28)
    • Cooking (2)
    • Dating & Relationships (2)
    • Economics (1)
    • Employment & Training (2)
    • Fashion (5)
    • Film Stars (4)
    • History (16)
    • Hobbies & Crafts (2)
    • Home (1)
    • Inventors (1)
    • Investing (1)
    • Music (2)
    • Natural History (2)
    • Parenting (13)
    • Philosophy (2)
    • Religion (8)
    • Science (8)
    • Sport (1)
    • Technology (1)
    • US Presidents (4)
    • US Universities (11)
    • Wars & Revolutions (1)
  • News (206)
    • Agriculture & Farming (2)
    • Art & Architecture (2)
    • Business (12)
    • Celebrity (21)
    • Crime and Justice (1)
    • Economics (1)
    • Education & Training (2)
    • Gaming (1)
    • Global Warming (5)
    • Human Rights (1)
    • Immigration (2)
    • Jobs (4)
    • Medical (5)
    • Military (5)
    • Natural History & The Environment (2)
    • Obituaries (2)
    • Politics (9)
    • Religion (1)
    • Shopping & Retail (2)
    • Social Media (1)
    • Space & Exploration (6)
    • Sport (10)
      • Golf (1)
      • Motor racing (1)
      • Soccer (6)
      • Tennis (1)
    • Technology (7)
    • Transport (1)
    • World News (101)
      • Africa (11)
        • Benin (1)
        • Cameroon (1)
        • Ethiopia (1)
        • Senegal (1)
        • Somalia (2)
        • South Africa (2)
        • Sudan (1)
      • Asia (29)
        • Afghanistan (1)
        • Bangladesh (4)
        • Cambodia (1)
        • China (2)
        • Iran (1)
        • Japan (3)
        • Philippines (4)
        • Qatar (1)
        • Russia (2)
        • Saudi Arabia (2)
        • Singapore (1)
        • Syria (1)
      • Central America (2)
        • Bahamas (1)
        • Panama (1)
      • Europe (39)
        • Cyprus (1)
        • Czech Republic (1)
        • Italy (2)
        • Kosovo (1)
        • Republic of Ireland (1)
        • Romania (2)
        • Ukraine (6)
        • United Kingdom (25)
      • Middle East (4)
      • North America (10)
        • Canada (6)
        • Mexico (1)
        • United States of America (3)
          • Film & Theatre (1)
      • Oceania (3)
        • Australia (3)
      • South America (3)
        • Colombia (1)
        • Suriname (1)
        • Venezuela (1)
  • Travel (85)
    • Africa (4)
      • Democratic Republic of the Congo (1)
      • Egypt (1)
      • Morocco (1)
      • Nigeria (1)
    • Asia (33)
      • Bangladesh (2)
      • China (11)
      • India (7)
      • Indonesia (2)
      • Japan (2)
      • Pakistan (2)
      • Philippines (2)
      • Russia (2)
      • South Korea (1)
      • Thailand (1)
      • Turkey (1)
    • Central America (1)
      • Honduras (1)
    • Europe (7)
      • Denmark (1)
      • France (1)
      • Germany (1)
      • Italy (1)
      • Netherlands (1)
      • Ukraine (1)
      • United Kingdom (1)
    • Mexican Travel (1)
    • North America (21)
      • Canada (1)
      • Mexico (1)
      • United States of America (19)
        • US Parks (3)
    • Photography (1)
    • Shopping (5)
    • South America (5)
      • Argentina (1)
      • Brazil (2)
      • Colombia (1)
      • Peru (1)
    • World (7)
      • Columbia (1)
      • Holland (1)
      • UK (2)
  • Uncategorized (2)

Latest & Breaking

Bangladesh's Padma Bridge. Photo By Rezuanur Rahman Mubin. Unsplash.

Bangladesh’s Padma Bridge: A Big Achievement Connecting People and Economy.

January 27, 2023
Endless love. Photo by Shimal Ahmed. Flickr.

Where Do Asian Women Find Genuine Men Online?

January 27, 2023
Judith Rakers. Photo By ruben solaz. Flickr.

Judith Rakers: The Journey of a German Journalist

January 26, 2023

Popular

  • Sailors perform a surgical procedure in an operating room aboard USNS Comfort. by Official U.S. Navy Imagery.

    Men at Risk for Pancreatic Cancer: Know the Signs.

    1 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • How Moses Freed the Jewish People from Slavery.

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Lake Tahoe: America’s Paradise.

    1 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • About
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact
  • RSS
  • en_US

© 2022 THX News.

No Result
View All Result
  • en_US
    • ar
    • bn_BD
    • zh_CN
    • fr_FR
    • de_DE
    • hi_IN
    • it_IT
    • pt_PT
    • ru_RU
    • es_ES
    • ur
  • News
  • Travel
  • Education
  • About Us
  • Help
  • Login

© 2022 THX News.

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password?

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In
This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this website you are giving consent to cookies being used. Visit our Privacy and Cookie Policy.