Alexander the Great (356–323 BCE) was a Macedonian king and one of history's most successful military commanders. He was the son of King Philip II and Queen Olympias. Tutored by the philosopher Aristotle, Alexander developed a deep interest in philosophy, science, and warfare.
At the age of 20, Alexander succeeded his father as king after Philip II's assassination. Almost immediately, he set out to expand Macedonian influence, embarking on a military campaign that would change the course of history. In just over a decade, Alexander conquered the Persian Empire, which stretched from Greece and Egypt to modern-day India, making him the ruler of one of the largest empires the world had ever seen.
Alexander’s conquests spread Greek culture and ideas across a vast area, profoundly influencing the regions he ruled. Despite his military success, Alexander's empire was short-lived. In 323 BCE, at the age of 32, he died under mysterious circumstances in Babylon, possibly from fever, poisoning, or natural causes.
After his death, his empire fragmented, but his legacy lived on through the spread of Greek culture, language, and learning. He is remembered as one of the greatest military geniuses in history, inspiring countless leaders throughout the ages.
