Alexander the Great

Annie Meyer 8A

October 10, 2010

Humanities: Ms. Moore

Alexander the Great

                Throughout history many people have been referred to as great, but none as famous or legendary as Alexander the Great, King of Macedonia. During his rule Alexander conquered many cities, creating the largest empire in history. He also spread Greek Culture throughout Asia and Europe. In addition Alexander the Great was a military genius, leading his troops to victory in many battles. Overall Alexander the Great left a lasting impression in the world and therefore he has earned the title of the Great.

 Alexander the Great of Macedonia built a vast very powerful empire that covered  at least 3,000 miles and conquered over seventy cities. Just after the Peloponnesian war, he and his father King Phillip II of Macedonia, noticed that the Greeks were weak so they decided to strike, conquering Greece and its city—states in the battle of Chaeronea. Another great accomplishment was when he conquered the extremely powerful Persian Empire, despite being outnumbered. In addition he also conquered Egypt, the Middle East, India, and Central Asia. Also, in order to maintain his control he discouraged rebellion by punishing rebels, and introducing a new culture many people appreciated and accepted, usually eliminating the need for a rebellion. As a result, Alexander the Great created one of the largest and most powerful Empires in History.

                Alexander of Macedonia deserves the title of the Great is his military accomplishments. Like his father, Alexander the Great was a military genius, training a highly skilled military with better weapons. When he conquered cities he would add soldiers from the defeated armies, therefore  increasing his powerful army. Ever since Alexander was young, he had been a wise military leader. When he was only sixteen Alexander gave his first battle commands, leading to a victory against the Greeks.  Alexander was also a great strategist, often outsmarting other armies. One example is the battle of Issus in 333b.c. Even though his army was outnumbered Alexander devised a clever attack plan that led his troops to victory over the Persian Empire. Consequently, Alexander of Macedonia’s military power is another reason why he was a great leader.

                According to A Message of Ancient Days, “Like his father Alexander had both a Military Genius and appreciation for Greek culture.” (page 378) This shows that while Alexander the Great had a powerful army and empire he also had respect and appreciation for culture. When he was a teenager Alexander was taught by the Greek philosopher Aristotle who instilled in him an admiration for Greek culture. When he conquered a city Alexander would often leave Greek officials to manage the cities, thus spreading Greek culture throughout Europe and Asia. This time period is known as the Hellenistic age when art and literature from different areas was influenced by Greek culture. In addition, people in areas Alexander conquered the citizens were allowed to chose whether or not they wanted to become part of Greek society. Many people embraced Greek culture and spent time learning the language and proudly said that they were Greek. Overall, Alexander the Great spread culture throughout his Empire, that has had left lasting effects on the world culture.

Alexander of Macedonia has earned the title of “the Great.” Not only did he conquer many cities, but he showed an appreciation for different cultures. Also, Alexander had a very powerful military and employed many wise strategies. If he had not conquered parts of Europe and Asia then today’s art and literature would not be the same without the Hellenistic influence. In conclusion Alexander the Great of Macedonia has earned the title of the great because he had a large empire, a powerful military, and spread Greek culture throughout his empire and therefore he has truly earned the title of Alexander the Great
Bibliography
Armento, Beverly, Gary Nast, Christopher Salter, and Karen Wixen. A Message of Ancient Days. Boston.
Houghton Mifflin Co. 1991.pages 374-381
Brody, Lisa and David Sacts.”Alexander the Great”. Encyclopedia of The Ancient Greek Worlds. Pages
21-25
Carr, Karen. “Alexander the Great”. History for Kids. Feb. 10, 2009. Oct. 8, 2010.
http://www.historyforkids.org/learn/greeks/history/alexander.htm
History of Macedonia. “Alexander the Great Alexander of Macedonia Biography”. 7 Oct. 2010.
http://www.historyofmacedonia.org/AncientMacedonia/AlexandertheGreat.html
Wood, Michael. “In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great”. pages 180-185.