Alexander III of Macedon, better known as Alexander the Great, holds a distinguished place in history due to his remarkable leadership and military prowess. His conquests expanded his empire from Greece to Northwestern India, encompassing lands like Egypt, Persia, and most of Asia. While his empire faced internal strife after his death, there’s no denying the astonishing legacy he left behind. Here, we delve into Interesting Facts About Alexander The Great that underline his greatness.
Body Preserved in Honey
Legends claim that Alexander’s body was preserved in honey after his death to prevent decay. However, it never reached its intended burial place, as the Egyptian Pharaoh Ptolemy I intercepted it, hoping to control Alexander’s empire through his remains.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Tutored by Aristotle | Educated by philosopher Aristotle in medicine, philosophy, and governance. |
| Meeting Diogenes | Encountered philosopher Diogenes and admired his unconventional wisdom. |
| Unbeatable in Battle | Never suffered defeat in his 15-year military campaign; his tactics are studied in academies. |
| City Namesakes | Renamed conquered cities as ‘Alexandria’ to commemorate victories, promoting cultural unity. |
| Roxanne, His Beloved | Married Roxanne after the Battle of Sogdian Rock; union was short-lived due to his early death. |
| Pleasant Fragrance | Known for a pleasant scent, even his breath smelled fresh, a rarity among historical figures. |
| Adopting Persian Attire | Wore Persian clothing to foster unity, although it raised dissent among Greeks. |
| Body Preserved in Honey | Legends claim his body preserved in honey after death, intercepted by Egyptian Pharaoh Ptolemy I. |
| Ascension at 20 | Assumed the throne at just 20 after his father’s assassination, ruling successfully until death. |
| Mysterious Death | Fell ill at a party, cause of death remains unknown, with suspicions of foul play. |
Ascension at 20
Alexander took the reins of his kingdom at the remarkably young age of 20 after his father’s assassination. His successful rule left a lasting mark on the world until his death in 323 B.C.
Mysterious Death
Alexander’s demise remains shrouded in mystery. Falling ill at a party, he deteriorated over two weeks, with the exact cause of death unknown. Suspicions of foul play surrounded some of his associates, including the general Antipater and even his teacher, Aristotle.
Tutored by Aristotle
At the age of 13, his father, King Philip II, sought a tutor for the young Alexander. This wise choice led to Alexander’s education under the renowned philosopher Aristotle, who covered subjects essential for ruling, from medicine to philosophy.
Meeting Diogenes:
Alexander’s philosophical pursuits led him to encounter the infamous Diogenes, a man living unconventionally on the streets in a clay jar. When asked how he could assist, Diogenes replied by asking Alexander to move and not block his sunlight, impressing the king with his wisdom.
Unbeatable in Battle:
Alexander earned a reputation as an exceptional military leader, never losing a battle during his 15-year campaign. His tactical brilliance is still studied in military academies worldwide.
City Namesake:
Alexander’s ego matched his talent. After capturing cities, he frequently renamed them as ‘Alexandria’ to commemorate his victories. The most famous, Alexandria in Egypt, still thrives today, showcasing his attempt at cultural exchange and unity through naming.
Roxanne, His Beloved:
Alexander’s true love was Roxanne, whom he married after the Battle of Sogdian Rock. Their union, albeit short-lived due to Alexander’s early death, left a significant mark on his life.
Pleasant Fragrance:
Remarkably, Alexander was known for his pleasant scent, a rarity among historical figures. Plutarch noted his “most agreeable odor,” which extended even to his breath, enhancing his appeal during military campaigns and in personal life.
Adopting Persian Attire:
After defeating the Persian Empire, Alexander aimed for unity by embracing Persian customs, donning their attire. This gesture, while intended for harmony, caused some dissent among his Greek subjects.
In summary, Alexander the Great’s life was an epic tale of conquest, wisdom, and enigma, leaving a profound imprint on history.
