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The Rise of Macedonia • After the Peloponnesian War between Athens and Sparta the two city-states continue to spar with each other. • While fighting continues amongst them a new kingdom called Macedonia is on the rise. • King Phillip II begins to establish his power by conquering Greece. • Phillip is an accomplished assassin and kills off other competitors for the throne • He is captured by the Thebans 369-367 BCE, and learns Greek military tactics here. • King Phillip the II was the father of Alexander the Great. • Alexander’s mother Olympias dreams of an auspicious future for the child in her womb.
Phillip’s Death • After Phillip’s death Alexander inherits the throne at the age of 20. • He was taught natural philosophy and military tactics by Aristotle. • Greece revolts! They no longer want to be ruled by Macedonians. • Thebes was made example of: • Alexander crushed its army and sold the people into slavery and burned the city to the ground.
Beginnings of an Empire! • Alexander wanted all of Persia and started a campaign after he dealt with all Greek revolts. • He would find himself at odds with Darius III of Persia.
Small Well Trained Fiercely Loyal to Alexander Large Disorganized No common language Alexander’s ArmyPersian Army
Alexander’s Major Battles • Battle of the Granicus River, 334 BC. • Darius III didn’t take Alexander seriously and sent a general in his stead. • Alexander came very close to dying in battle, but he overcame his injuries to be victorious. • Battle of Issus, 333 BC. • Darius III now is angered and will confront him at the Battle of Issus. However, he still doesn’t take Alexander seriously, and even brings his family to the battle site. • Darius loses the battle and flees without his family. Alexander captures them as prisoners of war but treats them very well.
Alexander’s Famous Conquests • Siege at Tyre • Alexander wanted to sacrifice to the Gods for his victories, but Tyrians refuse to let him into the city. • They feared he would take over the city, so they would not let him sacrifice an offering at the temple. • This angers him, and he decides to conquer the island.
Alexander takes Persia • Alexander is able to take Persia and begin his empire. • Alexander burns Persepolis “Persian capital” to the ground. • He pushes on into India where his campaign turns sour. • His soldiers are tired and start to doubt him.
Bucephalus • Is Alexander the Greats’ horse he tamed the wild stallion himself. • As the story goes the horse was afraid of its own shadow, Alexander realized this and made blinders for the horse. • Bucephalus died at the Battle of Hydaspes, the last battle Alexander would ever fight
Army Revolts! • The soldiers are tired of fighting and want to return home to see family and friends. • Alexander tries to persuade the army to continue, but the men are ready to return to Macedonia.
Alexander becomes sick and dies • Many have debated whether his death was intentional or natural. • Poison is a possible answer because troops were ready to return home. • Malaria is another possibility because of the climate in India; misquotes are present in high numbers.
No Successor for Alexander • The Breakup of Alexander’s Empire
QUESTIONS • What were the reasons behind Alexander’s victory over the Persians? Discuss the mistakes made by Darius III. • Compare and contrast the strengths and weaknesses of the Greeks versus the Persians. • Describe the relations between the Greek city states that provided the opportunity for the rise of Macedonia. • How, when and where did Alexander’s conquests end? What happened to his empire? • What made Alexander great? In terms of Greek values was he a hero?
