Aim: What effects did Alexander’s conquests have on the world?

Do Now: What does someone need to accomplish in order for their name to be remembered thousands of years later. What are some characteristics that a person must possess to be considered “Great Leader”?

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In this lesson, students will identify the contributions of Alexander the Great to world history. Students will be able to identify and/or define the following terms:Alexander the GreatMacedoniaHellenism

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Greece’s neighbor to the north is

Macedonia.

Philip II• Philip II was a king of Macedonia. In 338 B.C., he conquered

the Greek city-states.

• After his successful conquest of the Greeks, he planned to conquer Persia.

• However, he died before he could realize his plan.

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This ancient coin bears the image ofPhilip II of Macedonia.

Alexander the Great• After the death of Philip II, his son, Alexander, set out to conquer

the world.

• Alexander quickly conquered Asia Minor, Egypt, and Babylon. By 330 B.C., he defeated all of the Persian armies.

• Alexander moved his army all the way to the Indus River.

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Alexander the Great conquered a vastempire.

A Tired Army• When Alexander’s soldiers reached the Indus River, they begged

Alexander to turn back.

• The Indus River was the end of the known world for his soldiers.

• In 323 B.C., Alexander developed a fever in Babylon. He died within a few days.

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Alexander the Great was only 32 whenhe died. For 13 years, he had ruled

a vast empire.

After the death of Alexander• Alexander’s empire fell apart after his death.

• His three generals divided the empire into three kingdoms-Macedon, Egypt, and Syria.

• These kingdoms often fought each other but they were united by their common Greek culture.

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After the death of Alexander the Great,his vast empire was divided among his

generals.

Hellenism• Alexander the Great spread Greek culture throughout his empire.

• As Greek culture spread eastward, it blended with other cultures. This blend of eastern and western cultures is called Hellenism.

• Hellenism comes from the Greek word “Hellas”, which means “their own land.”

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Hellenism is a Greek like culture.

Hellenistic Culture• Hellenistic culture shaped the Mediterranean world for nearly 300

years.

• However, Alexander’s dream of creating an enduring empire with one government did not come true.

• After Alexander’s death, the Romans eventually realized this dream

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Alexander the Greatspread Greek

culture throughoutthe Mediterranean

world.

Questions for Reflection:• Where is Macedonia located?• List two accomplishments of Alexander the Great.• Why did Alexander’s soldiers want to return home after invading

the Indus River Valley?• What happened to Alexander’s empire after his death? Why did

this happen?• Define Hellenism.

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