Alexander the Great, the ruler of Macedonia, was undeniably a highly authoritative and influential leader. With unparalleled control over his armed forces and a solid economic foundation, he effectively conquered a considerable part of the world. His leadership approach consisted of instilling fear, and he achieved victories through sheer strength. However, when objectively evaluating exceptional leaders, should Alexander be truly considered at the highest level or is his reputation built on an incomplete foundation?
Alexander was raised in Macedon and educated by Aristotle, a Greek philosopher, who guided his intellectual development. He received instruction in religion, leadership, and philosophy. At the tender age of sixteen, Alexander was compelled to mature quickly and acquire skills necessary for governing an empire due to his father Philip II’s absence in battle. At twenty years old, he ascended the throne following his father’s assassination, assuming leadership of a highly powerful kingdom.
Alexander wasted no time and embarked on a mission to conquer the formidable and immense Persian Empire. In just twelve years, he defeated every Persian military unit and became ruler of the entire empire. Unlike other rulers, Alexander actively fought alongside his troops and earned a reputation as an accomplished warrior. His exceptional leadership inspired unwavering loyalty from his army, earning him profound respect from his soldiers. Remarkably, he emerged victorious in every battle, establishing himself as a military prodigy. The boundaries of Alexander’s empire stretched from the Nile River to the Indus River, including Persia, Egypt, Greece, and India.
During the Hellenistic period, Alexander the Great brought Greek ideas, culture, and lifestyle to the lands he conquered. This time witnessed a fusion of cultures and notable progress in mathematics and science. Education also received great emphasis. Apart from his extensive conquests, Alexander founded more than seventy cities, with Alexandria of Egypt being particularly noteworthy.
Alexandria, known as the trading and military base founded by Alexander, eventually rose to prominence as a significant economic and cultural hub for numerous centuries. Despite Alexander’s reputation for being hot-headed and fixated on power, he was an extraordinary leader and military prodigy who conquered the entirety of the known world at a remarkably young age. His people held him in high esteem and he initiated an epoch of cultural amalgamation. Thus, he is widely acclaimed as one of the most exceptional leaders in history, earning him the title Alexander “the great.”
