Five Famous Victories of Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great is counted among the military geniuses in all of history. During times when even a saddle for a horse was not invented, Alexander led his forces to victory in many battles. Let's take a look at a few.

The battle of Thebes (335 BCE)

After the assassination of Alexander's father, Greek nations rebelled. Among the most prominent was Thebes. Alexander performed an astonishing quick march and defeated the city-state.

The Battle of Granicus (334 BCE)

This was Alexander's 1st important victory against the Persians. He surprised Persian forces camped on other side of river Granicus by attacking late in the day when most commanders would have been reluctant for a major military movement.

The Battle of Issus (333 BCE)

This was Alexander's first encounter with Persian King Darius. Though his army had less soldiers than the enemy, Alexander forced the Persians into a disadvantageous position and achieved victory.

The Battle of Guagamela (331 BCE)

This was a major victory for Alexander against Darius. Even when his army was outnumbered 3 to 1, Alexander tactically created gap in Persian ranks and Darius and his retinue had to retreat. Watching the king running away, the Persian army crumbled.

The Battle of the Persian Gate (330 BCE)

Alexander turned a near defeat into victory in this battle by pinning the Persian army between his main force and a smaller detachment bravely led personally by him.