Field Campaigns of Alexander the Great

Alexander the Great was the greatest military genius of all time, conquering half the known world during his thirteen-year reign. This book combines a narrative of his campaigns with clear analysis of strategy, tactics, and logistics, making it a compelling examination of one of the most successful armies and conquerors ever known.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 08 December 2020
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Alexander the Great, one of history's most renowned figures, is widely regarded as the greatest military genius ever to have lived. During his thirteen-year reign as king of Macedon, he embarked on a relentless campaign that conquered half the known world. Remarkably, he never lost a battle throughout this period. Beyond the iconic set-piece battles such as Granicus, Issus, Gaugamela, and Hydaspes, Alexander's army traversed thousands of miles through hostile territories, engaging in countless smaller actions and requiring a monumental logistical effort. While there exists a vast literature on Alexander, most focus on his personal life, with relatively few recent works examining his campaigns from a purely military perspective. This book aims to bridge that gap by presenting a narrative of each of Alexander's campaigns, accompanied by a detailed analysis of strategy, tactics, and logistics. When combined with Stephen English's works, "The Army of Alexander the Great" and "The Sieges of Alexander the Great," it provides a comprehensive examination of one of the most successful armies and greatest conquerors in history.

Alexander's conquests were not solely due to his military prowess but also his strategic thinking and adaptability. He was able to outmaneuver his opponents by employing innovative tactics and utilizing the resources at his disposal. For instance, at the Battle of Granicus, Alexander used his cavalry to harass the enemy's flanks, creating confusion and disorganization. This allowed his infantry to break through the enemy lines and achieve a decisive victory.

Another example of Alexander's strategic brilliance is his use of siege warfare. At the Siege of Tyre, he employed a clever tactic of building a causeway across the sea to bypass the city's defenses. This allowed his army to surround the city and eventually capture it after a long and grueling siege.

Alexander's logistics were also impressive. He had a well-organized system of supply and transportation that allowed his army to move quickly and efficiently across vast distances. He also had a network of spies and informants that provided him with valuable intelligence about his enemies, enabling him to make informed decisions and avoid surprises.

In addition to his military achievements, Alexander was also a skilled diplomat and negotiator. He was able to establish alliances with various kingdoms and cultures, which helped him expand his empire. He was also known for his respect for local customs and cultures, which earned him the loyalty and respect of his subjects.

Despite his many accomplishments, Alexander's reign was not without its challenges. He faced opposition from various factions within his own empire, as well as from external enemies. He also had to deal with the aftermath of his conquests, which included the division of his empire and the rise of new powers.

In conclusion, Alexander the Great is one of history's most remarkable figures. His military genius, strategic thinking, adaptability, and logistical skills enabled him to conquer half the known world and establish one of the largest empires in history. His legacy continues to inspire and influence military leaders and strategists to this day.

Weight: 410g
Dimension: 157 x 232 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526796608