How did Alexander the Great earn his name? How did he deserve to be thought of in history? Everyone, including myself, has their own perspectives on Alexander. I see Alexander the Great as an intelligent and clever king and warrior. It’s these traits that helped Alexander conquer 2,000,000 square miles of land at the young age of 30.1 You have to admit, that isn’t something you see every day.
I will admit, Alexander is a tough character to figure out. According to “The Legend of the Helmet” by Lucius Flavius Arrianus “So extraordinary was the effect of this action that the water wasted by Alexander was as good as a drink for every man in the army.” Alexander is clearly a fair leader. He even would refuse water unless everyone got some water. I don’t understand how people could think so poorly of a great generous leader.
A important impact that Alexander made was the cities he developed. Alexander founded 70 cities.2 That is lots of land to keep under control of one person. Remember, Alexander the Great’s empire was a monarchy, and one person rules the empire in the monarchy, so it’s is a tough job. The text, History Alive!, states, “The most famous of the cities was called Alexandria. It was located in Egypt near the sea.” Part of his important impact was his cities.
Well played Alexander, well played. You were a fair leader who, thanks to your courage and wits, you and your people conquered the world. That’s an impressive achievement.
1. Alexander’s Legacy Chart
2. Alexander’s Legacy Chart
