Alexander the Great was determined to leave a lasting mark on history. Indeed, he sought to shape the course of events. Alexander III of Macedon, born in 356 BC and died in 323 BC, lived a life filled with remarkable tales of grandeur. Moreover, he was one of history’s most successful military commanders. In fact, he remained undefeated until his death.
Consequently, he exerted significant influence beyond his homeland. As a result, he inspired the vast Hellenistic period, which stretched from Alexandria to the rest of the world. Furthermore, Alexander dreamed of building a utopia in his image. Ultimately, he aimed to fulfill the full extent of his extraordinary ambition.
Alexander the Great Facts and History
Alexander III of Macedon (356 B.C. – 323 B.C.) earned the title “Undefeated in Battle” and became one of history’s most successful military commanders. He pursued a grandiose dream of reaching the extremities of the globe and the vast outer oceans. At 356 B.C., he was born to “King Philip II” of Macedon and his lovely bride Olympia in Pella (the Ancient Capital of Ancient Greece in Macedonia).
Aristotle educated him in the disciplines of literature, medicine, philosophy, and science until he was 16 years old. He, like the rest of his people, practiced Hellenism, a Greek polytheistic religion that honored Greek gods such as Zeus, Apollo, Athena, Poseidon, and others.
At the age of 20, he succeeded his father following his assassination in 336 B.C. and became the lawful monarch of a powerful country with an experienced army. He assassinated all of his opponents and was given the generalship of Greece.
Alexander utilized his newfound authority to fulfill his father’s goal of leading the Greeks in the invasion of Persia. He spent most of his reign conducting unparalleled military expeditions in northeast Africa and Asia. He began conquering the Persian Empire in 334 B.C. and continued invading till he reached India in 326 B.C.
One of his most famous engagements was the siege of Tyre in 332 BC, which he won over the Phoenician army.
Alexander the Great’s Wives and Children
In his lifetime, he married three times: Roxana of Bactria, Stateira, and Parysatis, daughter of Ochus. Alexander IV of Macedon, his only child, was born to Roxana shortly after he died in 323 BC.
Alexander the Great’s Most Important Achievements
After conquering Gaza and defeating the Persian Emperor Darius for control of Syria and the Levant at the Battle of Pelusium, Alexander the Great went to Egypt, which was still part of the Persian Empire. On November 14, 332 B.C., he marched his army towards Pelusium (the Eastern Gateway to Egypt) and invaded Egypt.
Because the Egyptians viewed him as a liberator, and because the Persians had little control over the Egyptian people or respect for religion or culture, they welcomed him with open arms.
He encountered no opposition or resistance from Persian forces and could easily enter Egypt. He then led his forces to the capital of Memphis and the Mediterranean coast, where he saw a piece of land between the sea and a lake with a reliable freshwater supply and ordered his architect “Democrats” to build him a city on that site, which became known as “Alexandria.” Egypt was one of the foundations of Greek civilization, according to him.
Alexander declared himself the son of the god Amun-Ra to gain favor in Egypt. He restored Tuthmosis III’s chapel and the temples of Karnak. He offered sacrifices to the god Ptah. At the temple of Amun-Ra, he was portrayed as a pharaoh, with an inscription naming him “King of Upper and Lower Egypt, Lord of the Two Lands, Son of Re, Possessor of the Crowns, Alexander.” In October 331 BC, he conquered Egypt. He then advanced to Persia, where he fought a significant war. In 326 BC, he entered India.
The Great Alexander’s Legacy
His instructor “Aristotle” instructed him as a young kid to constantly maintain the equilibrium between all parties. When it came time to create his administrative system, he picked Egyptian, Greek, and Macedonian delegates and generals so that they would all feel empowered and work to realize Alexander’s ambition of building a vast empire. Alexander also allowed all Greek and Macedonian immigrants to enter Egypt.
He aspired to create a multi-cultural province. This province would have diverse languages and cultures. It would serve as a real emblem of collaboration between ancient civilizations. Alexander stayed in Egypt for only six months. He undertook enormous restorations and changes. He brought Egypt into the circle of Greek culture.
The Death of Alexander the Great
Alexander the Great died of malaria at age 32 in 323 BC. He left a vast legacy of cultural dissemination and magnificent buildings. His legacy also included syncretism and stories that changed history. After his death, his generals divided his dominion. Each general controlled a portion of his Empire. Ptolemy ruled Egypt and founded the Ptolemaic Dynasty. The Ptolemaic Dynasty lasted until the Roman dynasty captured Egypt in 32 BC.
Alexander the Great’s Tomb
Many think Ptolemy took Alexander’s remains. He buried him at Memphis or Alexandria. This makes Alexander the Great’s burial one of life’s biggest mysteries.
Discover Egypt’s Hidden Treasures
Egypt boasts a wonderful legacy that people continue to discover to this day. During your trip to Egypt, you can explore its beautiful temples, tombs, and museums. Book one of our stunning Egypt tour packages or Nile cruises to enjoy the vacation you deserve.
