Table of Contents
Introduction
alexander the Great, son of King Philip II of Macedon, is one of the most renowned figures in ancient history. Born in 356 BC, he went on to conquer much of the known world, from Greece to Egypt, Persia, and beyond. But what was his legacy, and why does he continue to be remembered and studied over two thousand years later?
Conquests and Expansion
alexander’s military conquests are the stuff of legend. At the age of just twenty, he became king of Macedon upon his father’s death and immediately set out to conquer the Persian Empire. Over the next ten years, he would lead his army across three continents, defeating the Persians, conquering Egypt, and founding a city that would come to be known as alexandria.
But alexander’s legacy is not just one of conquest. He also spread Greek culture and ideas throughout the world, spreading the ideals of democracy, philosophy, and science to the far-flung corners of his empire. alexander is often credited with bringing about a period of cultural fusion, where East met West and the ideas and beliefs of different civilizations mixed and merged.
The Lasting Legacy
The legacy of alexander the Great is felt to this day, not just in the territories he conquered but around the world. The city of alexandria, founded by alexander, would become a center of learning and a birthplace of modern science. The city’s famous Library of alexandria, founded by alexander’s general, Ptolemy I, was one of the greatest libraries of the ancient world, containing hundreds of thousands of manuscripts on subjects ranging from mathematics and science to literature and history.
alexander’s influence is also felt in the field of politics. The ideals of democracy that he spread have inspired political thinkers and leaders throughout history, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world who strive for freedom and justice.
Conclusion
alexander the Great was more than just a conqueror, he was a visionary, a leader, and a symbol of the power of ideas. His legacy lives on in the cities he founded, the people he inspired, and the ideals he spread. As you read this, thousands of students around the world are studying his life and accomplishments, and his name will continue to be remembered for generations to come.
Sources:
“alexander the Great” by Encyclopædia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Alexander -the-Great
“The Legacy of alexander the Great” by the Metropolitan Museum of art, https://www.metmuseum.org/toah/hd/alex/hd_alex.htm
“The Conquests of alexander the Great” by National Geographic, https://www.nationalgeographic.org/article/conquests-alexander-great/
