Alexander the Great

Early Life

Alexander the Great was born on July 20, 356 BC, in Pallas, the capital of the kingdom of Macedon. His father, Philip II, unified Greece, setting the stage for Alexander's future conquests. Alexander received an education befitting a royal heir, with Aristotle as his tutor, teaching him philosophy, literature, geometry, medicine, and military strategy 1.

Alexander was given an education that was befitting a royal heir. His tutor was none other than the philosopher Aristotle, who taught him philosophy, literature, geometry, medicine, and, of course, military strategy.

--- Gary Arndt

This foundation prepared him for the monumental tasks ahead, including his audacious goal of taking on the Persian Empire.

   

Philip's Influence

Philip II's achievements were instrumental in shaping Alexander's ambitions. Philip conquered and unified Greece, a feat previously thought impossible, and became the hegemonic power in the region. His assassination in 336 BC left Alexander with a significant legacy to uphold 1.

Philip did something that prior to his doing, it had been thought to be impossible. He conquered and unified Greece.

--- Gary Arndt

Alexander, at the age of 20, ascended to the throne with a determination to distinguish himself from his father.

   

Consolidation

Upon becoming king, Alexander quickly moved to consolidate his power. His first task was to quell revolts among the Thracian tribes in Macedonia. With these internal threats subdued, he set his sights on the Persian Empire, the largest empire in the world at the time 1.

Alexander probably had a big chip on his shoulder. He was the son of the great Philip, one of the most successful military commanders in history, and he had to do something to distinguish himself from his father.

--- Gary Arndt

This marked the beginning of his legendary military campaigns that would change the ancient world.