Alexander

Alexander the Great Jake Gerson

What did the Greek World Look Like Before Alexander?

The Greek World After Alexander

Early Life -Born in 356 BCE to Philip II and Olympia of Epirus. -Philip II of Macedon -Alexander’s Father, King of Macedonia -Military Innovations -Established Macedonia as a major power in the Greek world (Battle of Chaeronea, 338 BC) -Plans to conquer Persian Empire -Olympia -Mystical Beliefs -Claimed that she had been impregnated by Zeus and that Alexander was divine. -Alexander’s parents wanted only the best for him and hired Aristotle to be his personal tutor.

Battle of Chaeronea (338 BC) Source: wikipedia.org -Phillip’s greatest military achievement. Amassing 32,000 Macedonians, Phillip defeats the smaller Athenian and Theban forces, securing Macedonian hegemony in Greece. -The battle effectively ended the age of the polis in Greece. The Greeks were now united under one king. -Alexander commanded the left wing of Phillip’s army establishing himself as a successful commander.

Alexander’s Rise to Power -

Phillip II is assassinated in 336. Although some suspect Alexander of foul play, it is more likely that a former lover of the king, Pausanias, was the culprit.

Alexander at the age of 22 is crowned King of Macedon.

Theban Revolt- While Alexander is away on battle, rumor spreads in Thebes that Alexander is dead and a revolt ensues. Upon hearing this, Alexander immediately heads to Thebes putting an end to the rebellion and selling thousands of Thebans into slavery.

Alexander strongly asserts his claim to the throne and plans for the Greek invasion of Persia.

References (1996-2000). Alexander the Great. Retrieved July 21, 2006, from Macedonia.org Web site: http://faq.macedonia.org/history/alexander.the.great.html