First major victory.
A timeless depiction of Alexander's triumph.
Alexander's ingenuity in the battlefield.
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A Decisive clash that shaped history.
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The end of Alexander's campaign.
The battle of Granicus was Alexander's first major victory against the Persian Empire, which took place at modern-day Turkey. The Macedonians crossed the Granicus river and launched a surprising attack with their cavalry which caught the Persians off-guard. In fact, Alexander almost lost his life but was saved by Cleitus who showed up at the right moment and cut off the arm of a Persian general who was about to strike Alexander. This victory was important because Alexander managed to encourage other Hellenic city-states to rebel against the Persians, and the path to Asia Minor was wide open.
Alexander defeated the Persians again in the battle of Issus that took place in modern-day Turkey. This was the battle where he established his reputation since he confronted Darius. This time he broke the Persians' left wing and hit them in the center. It was the beginning of the end for the Persian Empire as they were defeated with the presence of their leader. Darius retreated again but his wife, daughters, and mother were captured. The Persians were once again left with heavy casualties, estimated at 10,000-110,000.
Tyre was under siege for seven months with the Tyrians fighting back from land and sea trying to disrupt Alexander’s plans. Alexander ordered his soldiers to construct a causeway to reach the walls. Once he managed to gain control and more fleet over the sea he launched a full-scale attack by land. After the conquest, he executed and enslaved many civilians. It is mentioned that he ordered the crucifixion of 2,000 men. The city was defended by around 40,000 Phoenicians while Alexander had 35,000-40,000 soldiers.
The battle took place in modern-day Iraq. It was decisive for the future of the Macedonians as their breakthrough would allow them to dive deep into Asia. Alexander’s army was estimated around 45,000-50,000, while that of Darius III was 200,000. Alexander’s flanking attacks with his cavalry caused heavy losses estimated at 50,000-100,000. During the attack, the Persian’s center was weakened due to reinforcing the sides. Darius was in the center where Alexander attacked and forced him to retreat. The Persians were demoralized by the early retreat of their leader.
The battle of Hydapses occurred in modern-day Pakistan. The Macedonian Army were around 40,000 while King Porus’s army was around 50,000 including elephants. Alexander eventually figured out how he would overcome this obstacle by turning them against the Indians. The elephants caused chaos and losses in both armies. The Macedonians had around 1,000 casualties while the Indians 12,000. Alexander though was impressed by Porus’s bravery and did not kill him but reinstated him as a Satrap where he was able to rule under Macedonian authority. This battle was the end of Alexander's campaign as his soldiers refused to march any further.