History Shorts: Philip of Macedon Assassinated (336 B.C.)

Philip II of Macedon was the father of Alexander the Great and Hegemon of the Greek army preparing to invade Persia. By the time of his death, the Macedonian king asserted his authority throughout most of Greece. His military innovations overwhelmed the Greek City States and provided his heir with the force necessary to defeat the Persians. Some believe that without Philip's innovations, Alexander would never have been "Great." Historians continue to squabble over the reasons for the assassination. Philip’s death led to the rise of Alexander the Great who used Philip’s army and innovations to conquer beyond the known world. Philip’s tomb was discovered in 1977.

From Oliver Stone's Alexander:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0V6pc6PU7go