Who was Alexander the Great?
Alexander the Great, born in 356 BCE in Macedonia, was a king and military leader renowned for creating one of the largest empires in ancient history. He was the son of King Philip II and Queen Olympias. Tutored by the philosopher Aristotle, Alexander developed a deep appreciation for Greek culture and philosophy.
After succeeding his father in 336 BCE, he launched a series of military campaigns that expanded his empire across Persia, Egypt, and into parts of India. Notable victories include the Battle of Granicus, the Battle of Issus, and the Battle of Gaugamela, where he defeated the Persian king Darius III.
Alexander is celebrated not only for his military prowess but also for spreading Greek culture throughout his empire, a period known as the Hellenistic Era. He founded several cities, most famously Alexandria in Egypt, which became centers of learning and culture.
Alexander's life was marked by ambition and a relentless drive for conquest. He died in 323 BCE at the age of 32 in Babylon, leaving behind a legacy that shaped the course of history. His empire fragmented soon after his death, but his influence on culture, governance, and military strategy continues to be felt to this day.