Alexander the Great was born in 356 BC in Macedonia and succeeded his father King Phillip II as King of Macedonia in 334 BC. That year, Alexander and King Phillip II’s army invaded Persia, conquering the Persian empire and seizing the capital Persepolis. Alexander then invaded central Asia, conquering yet another empire and uniting Europe and Asia to become the first world conqueror. After additional conquests in India, Alexander's empire was the most extensive in the ancient world. However, in 323 BC Alexander the Great is believed to have drank himself to death, ending his conquests.

1. By: Tommy MarinelliProfessor ArguelloHistory 140Peoples and Empires:Alexander the Great

2. Early LifeAlexander the Great was born in 356 BC in Macedonia.His parents were King Phillip II and Princess Olympias.As Alexander grew up, he was mentored by Aristotle.His father was assassinated, leaving Alexander to succeed him as King of Macedonia in 334 BC.That year, Alexander and King Phillip II’s army invaded Persia.

3. ConquestsAlexander the Great conquered the Persian empire and seized the Persian capital, Persepolis.He created Rome’s first European Empire.Alexander and his army then invaded central Asia, and conquered yet another empire. Alexander’s conquests united the regions of Europe and Asia and he became the first world conquerer.He set off to find the Persian king, Darius, to finalize his conquest, but found him already dead, killed by his own men.

4. Final YearsIn 327 BC, Alexander and his army entered India, and began the greatest battle India had ever seen.Eventually, Alexander conquered India and it’s leader, Porus.Alexander’s empire was the most extensive in the ancient world.In 324 BC, Alexander held a large victory celebration at Susa.In 323 BC, it is believed that Alexander the Great drank himself to death.