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Alexander the Great was born in Pella, the capital of ancient Macedonia. His father, King Philip II, had already begun expanding Macedonian power, but Alexander would take it to unimaginable heights. As a young prince, Alexander was tutored by the famous philosopher Aristotle, who taught him about science, medicine, and philosophy - knowledge that would influence his later rule.

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334 BCE: Victory at the Battle of Granicus

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334 BCE: Victory at the Battle of Granicus

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Alexander's first major victory against the Persian Empire occurred at the Granicus River in modern-day Turkey. This battle marked the beginning of his conquest of Asia and showed his brilliant military tactics. The victory opened the door to the wealthy Greek cities of Asia Minor, and Alexander's policy of respecting local customs began here - a key part of his lasting legacy.

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Alexander founded the city of Alexandria in Egypt, which became one of the most important cities in the ancient world. This city housed the famous Library of Alexandria and became a center of learning, science, and culture.

"I am persuaded that there is no nation, city or people then in being where his name did not reach; for which reason, whatever origin he might boast of, or claim to himself, there

seems to me to have been some divine hand presiding over both his birth and his actions, inasmuch as no mortal on earth either excelled or equalled him.”

- Arrian, Greek Historian, 171 CE

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331 BCE: Battle of Gaugamela - Defeating Darius III

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331 BCE: Battle of Gaugamela - Defeating Darius III

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At Gaugamela in modern-day Iraq, Alexander won his most decisive victory against Persian King Darius III, effectively ending the Persian Empire. This battle made Alexander the ruler of the largest empire the world had ever seen. His victory here spread Greek ideas about government, art, and philosophy across the Middle East, creating lasting cultural changes.

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Alexander captured and initially burned Persepolis, the ceremonial capital of Persia, but later worked to preserve and rebuild parts of it. This event symbolizes both the end of the Persian Empire and Alexander's evolving approach to ruling diverse peoples.

"They say that, once upon a time, the pious Zarathustra (Zoroaster) made the religion. . . .The religion was in purity, and men were without doubts. But afterward, the accursed Evil Spirit, the Wicked One, in order to make men doubtful of this religion, instigated the accursed Alexander, the westerner who was dwelling in Egypt, so that he came to the country of Iran with severe cruelty and war and

devastation; he also slew the ruler of Iran, and destroyed the metropolis (city) and empire, and made them desolate. And he killed several high priests and judges and priests and the masters of the Magians and upholders of the religion,

and the competent and wise of the country of Iran"- Book of Arda Wiraz

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Alexander's victory against King Porus at the Hydaspes River marked his furthest advance into India. This battle showed Alexander's adaptability - he was so impressed by Porus's courage that he made him an ally rather than a prisoner, demonstrating the diplomatic skills that helped his empire survive.

“He was...very heroic in courage...He was very clever in recognizing what was necessary to be done, when others were still in a state of uncertainty...In...ruling an army, he was exceedingly skillful; and very renowned for rousing the courage of his soldiers, filling them with hopes of success,

and dispelling their fear in the midst of danger by his own freedom from fear. He was likewise very (dedicated to) keeping the agreements and settlements which he made.”- Arrian, Greek Historian

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“And now, wishing to consult the gods concerning the expedition against Asia, he went to Delphi; and since he arrived on one of days when it was not lawful to deliver oracles, he sent a summons to the prophetess. And when she refused to perform her office and cited the law in her excuse, he went up himself and tried to drag her to the temple, whereupon, as if overcome by his ardor (enthusiasm), she said: ‘Thou art invincible, my son!’ On hearing this, Alexander said he desired no further prophecy, but had from her the oracle which he wanted . . .”- Plutarch, Roman Historian

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Alexander died mysteriously in Babylon at age 32, possibly from illness or poisoning. Though his empire was divided among his generals after his death, his cultural legacy lived on. The Hellenistic kingdoms that followed continued to spread Greek language, art, science, and ideas throughout the Mediterranean and Asia for centuries.