Analyze the career of Alexander the Great. In your answer, discuss Alexander’s personality and background, and describe the atmosphere in the Greek world upon Alexander’s accession to the throne of Macedonia. Also, treat, in detail, the campaigns of Alexander against the Persian Empire, considering each of the major battles he fought against the Persian host; in your view, what factors contributed to Alexander’s success on the battlefield? Finally, discuss the death of Alexander and its aftermath; what happened to his empire after he died and what was the appearance of the eastern Mediterranean world as a result of his conquests (i.e. what was the historical significance/impact of Alexander’s conquests)?

When answering the question, please be sure to document your sources (even if you just use the textbook), using the format (MLA, APA, Chicago, etc.) you’re most familiar with. Because the Discussion Board is somewhat informal, you’re free to use the style you’re most accustomed to using when documenting sources. Additionally, please work to answer the question using YOUR OWN WORDS as much as possible. Occasionally using direct quotations from the textbook is okay/acceptable, but most of your answer should be written in your own words (use of AI is NOT permitted). It’s really not your own work if you just copy your answer from the textbook (or other sources), even if you use quotation marks and citations, and will thus be scored accordingly.

Struggling with where to start this assignment? Follow this guide to tackle your assignment easily!

This discussion requires a detailed analysis of Alexander the Great’s career, personality, military campaigns, and historical impact. Follow this structured guide to ensure a well-organized and original response.

Step 1: Understand the Key Components of the Discussion

Your post must include:
Alexander’s personality and background (his upbringing, education, and traits).
The Greek world’s atmosphere when he took the throne.
His campaigns against the Persian Empire, including major battles (Granicus, Issus, Gaugamela).
Factors contributing to his battlefield success.
His death and its aftermath, including the division of his empire.
The historical significance of his conquests.
Properly cited sources in MLA, APA, or Chicago format.

Step 2: Structure Your Initial Post (200+ Words)

1. Introduction (2-3 Sentences)

Introduce Alexander the Great as one of history’s most successful military leaders.
Briefly mention his achievements and influence on the ancient world.

2. Alexander’s Background and Personality

Discuss his birth (356 BCE) and upbringing as the son of King Philip II of Macedonia.
Explain his education under Aristotle and how it shaped his leadership.
Describe his military genius, ambition, and fearless nature.

3. The Greek World Upon His Accession (336 BCE)

Discuss the state of Macedonia and Greece after Philip II’s assassination.
Explain Alexander’s efforts to secure power and suppress revolts (e.g., Thebes’ destruction).
Highlight the rivalry with Persia and his ambition to expand.

4. Alexander’s Campaigns Against the Persian Empire

Battle of Granicus (334 BCE)

Describe how Alexander defeated Persian satraps in Asia Minor.

Battle of Issus (333 BCE)

Explain how he outmaneuvered Darius III despite being outnumbered.

Battle of Gaugamela (331 BCE)

Detail his brilliant use of tactics to defeat the Persian army, leading to the fall of Persia.

5. Factors Behind His Success

Military strategy (use of the phalanx and cavalry).
Strong leadership and adaptability.
The weaknesses of the Persian Empire.

6. Alexander’s Death and the Division of His Empire

Explain how Alexander died in 323 BCE in Babylon (possible causes: fever, poisoning).
Discuss the struggles for power among his generals.
Describe how his empire was divided into the Hellenistic kingdoms (Ptolemaic Egypt, Seleucid Empire, and Macedonian Greece).

7. Historical Significance of His Conquests

Spread of Hellenistic culture, Greek language, and ideas.
Influence on Roman and medieval military strategies.
Creation of multicultural cities like Alexandria.

8. Conclusion (2-3 Sentences)

Summarize Alexander’s military success, impact on history, and cultural legacy.
Reflect on how his conquests reshaped the ancient world.

Step 3: Cite Sources in MLA, APA, or Chicago Format

Use at least two scholarly sources (books, academic journals, or reliable websites).
Ensure proper in-text citations and a reference list.

Step 4: Respond to Peers (100-150 Words)

Add new insights, discuss a different battle, or analyze Alexander’s leadership.
Provide one additional reference in APA, MLA, or Chicago format.

Final Step: Review and Submit

Check for plagiarism and originality (write in your own words).
Ensure citations follow your chosen format.
Submit on time to meet the discussion board deadline.

By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll create a detailed, well-structured, and high-quality discussion post!

The Legacy of Alexander the Great: His Conquests and Impact on the Ancient World