The Fall of Alexander the Great
In The Fall of Alexander the Great, archaeologist and historian Richard Miles explores the downfall of Alexander the Great. As his ambitious conquest of the known world marched on, Alexander’s prior physical and psychological traumas caught up to him and he died in June 323BC. He left behind no clear heir, and no cohesive administration. This video is excerpted from BBC’s Ancient Worlds, an epic series with archaeologist and historian Richard Miles as he explores the roots of civilization from Mesopotamia to the fall of the Roman Empire.
Lesson Express
Q: How did Alexander treat those that served under him?
A: He grew increasingly volatile and capricious, killing those who disagreed with him, including close companions.
Q: What were the circumstances of Alexander’s death?
A: Alexander likely died from a combination of physical wounds, psychological trauma, heavy drinking, and possibly a fever.
Q: What legacy did Alexander leave behind?
A: Alexander left no male heir or administrative structure, creating chaos after his death.
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