History Shorts: Alexander the Great's Death (323 B.C.)

Alexander the Great created the world’s largest empire to date. His hegemony began in Macedonia, extended through Greece, included Egypt, Persia, and expanded into India. (Map: http://www.newgenevacenter.org/02_The-West-to-1900/maps/MHH_323-BC_Alexander's-Empire.gif). Along the way, he transmitted Greek culture throughout his realm. The conquered peoples incorporated Greek culture into their societies creating a Hellenistic world. This is Alexander’s greatest and most lasting accomplishment. In 323 B.C., Alexander died without an heir. This fractured his kingdom in three essentially ending Macedonian domination of the Ancient world.

This is how Oliver Stone portrayed Alexander’s death:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dpqTcBJOe-8

A music video about Alexander the Great using clips from Oliver Stone’s film and music from Iron Maiden.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnhG2Drm4_k

History Shorts: Alexander the Great and the Battle of Gaugamela

Alexander the Great and the Greeks wanted to eliminate the Persian threat. So, Alexander led an invasion of the Persian Empire defeating every opponent along the way. At Gaugamela, Alexander defeated Darius and the Persian army in a rout. Alexander’s victory spelled the end of the empire Cyrus the Great founded. It also eliminated the Persian threat. Darius was murdered by his own people in the hopes of placating the Macedonian general. Then, Alexander incorporated the Persians into his Macedonian Empire. Afterward, he decided to continue eastward into India. Eventually, his men had enough and forced Alexander to turn around.

Here is Alexander in pop culture: The first clip is from Oliver Stones' Alexander. It is the stereotypical general pep talk to the troops before battle. The second is a documentary.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buXBDQvZjFk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GcGp9uTsK4Y

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