Alexander the Great was born in 356 BC in Macedonia, Greece. He was tutored as a child in mathematics, reading, writing, and music. As king of Macedonia, Alexander led his army in several important battles against Persian forces. His first major victory was at the Battle of Granicus in 334 BC, allowing him to invade Asia Minor. Another key victory was at the Battle of Issus in 333 BC, where he defeated Persian king Darius III. Through his military conquests, Alexander established a large empire and helped spread Greek culture throughout Asia and North Africa before his death at age 32.