QuoteReplyTopic: Commanders from the Antiquity Age Posted: 10-Oct-2006 at 11:18
Eumenes (circa 362 316 B.C.) ======================================== Greek general Native of Cardia. Son of a poor wagoner. Employed as a private secretary by Philip II [q.v.] and Alexander III [q.v.]. Promoted to chief secretary. Accompanied Alexander into Asia. After
Alexander's death, supported Alexander's son, Alexander IV, and took
command of a large body of Macedonian and Greek soldiers. Given the provinces of Cappadocia and Paphlagonia, however, they were not yet subdued. NOTE:
Perdiccas ordered Leonnatus and Antigonus to secure these regions.
Antigonus ignored the order while Leonnatus spoke with Eumenes about
grand plans in Greece. Silently ignoring Leonnatus, Eumenes joined Perdiccas. With Perdiccas' help, took possession of Cappadocia. Installed in Cappadocia. Having trouble dealing with the Macedonian infantry, built up his cavalry forces to 6,300 men. After the Lamian War, Craterus, with part of Antipater's army, marched into Cappadocia. Defeated the much more experienced Craterus and the Armenian satrap, Neoptolemus near Hellespont. 321 B.C. NOTE: Neoptolemus was killed in battle; Craterus, later, of his wounds in battle. Condemned to death by the Macedonian generals after the murder of Perdiccas. 320 B.C. Fled to Nora after being betrayed by one of his own officers. NOTE: Nora is a fortress on the border between Cappadocia and Lycaonia. Held up there for a year until the death of Antipater. NOTE: Antipater gave the regency to Polyperchon instead of his son, Cassander. This caused a division among Eumenes enemies. Allied himself with Polyperchon. Able to escape from Nora and threatened Syria and Phoenicia. Antigonus marched against him, withdrew to the east beyond the Tigris River. 318 B.C. NOTE: This was done in the attempt to gain allies from the satraps past the Tigris River. Fought an inconclusive battle against Antigonus at Paraitacene. 317 B.c.
PARAITACENE - summer 317 B.C. ================================== Eumenes (39,000) vs. Antigonus (40,000) inconclusive After
a sucessful skirmish against Antigonus, Eumenes moved against him at
Paraitacene, located northeast of Susa. Eumenes placed his phalanx in
the center with his elite Argyraspides. His left flank, which rested
on a hill, consisted of cavalry, 65 war elephants and auxiliaries.
Eumenes stationed himself and his heavy cavalry on the right flank of
the phalanx. Antigonus, using Greek tradition, deployed his troops
obliquely. His light cavalry on the left flank and the heavy cavalry
and light infantry on the right flank. Antigonus had the 125 war
elephants spread across in front of the phalanx. Antigonus attacks
Eumenes' line using his light cavalry. Eumenes disperses this force
using his own light cavalry. Antigonus then moved his phalanx to
engage the enemy. They were pushed back by the veteran Argyraspides
troops. However, the Argyraspides created a gap as they continued to
pursue Antigonus' phalanx. Antigonus pushed his heavy cavalry into
that gap on the enemy's left flank. The manuever ended what should
have been a Eumenes victory. Both generals spent the better part of
the day attempting to rally broken units. Both armies retired in good
order. 7,700 Antigonus casualties (3,700 killed). 1,540 Eumenes casualties (540 killed)
Was tactically victorious at the battle of Gabiene, however, Euemenes lost all of his baggage during the battle. 316 B.C.
GABIENE - 316 B.C. ================================== Eumenes (not found) vs. Antigonus (not found)inconclusive Antigonus
positioned his Thracian cavalry, war elephants and light infantry on
his right flank of the phalanx and his light cavalry on the left
flank. Eumenes placed himself among his best troops, the elite
Argyraspides, in the center and in front of the phalanx. Antigenes,
the leader of the Argyraspides, rode towards the Antigonus' phalanx and
yelled at them, "Wicked men, are you sinning against your fathers, who
conquered the whole wordl under Philip and Alexander!?" The morale of
Antigonus' men sunk and Eumenes, after a great cheer, advanced his
formation. The elephants and light troops of both armies clashed with
the cavalry joining in. The battle was tilting towards Antigonus due
to the larger number of men he had available. Peucestas, commander of
Eumenes' cavalry, retreated to a nearby river. The battle kicked up
huge dust clouds making it difficult to see. Antigonus, realizing
this, ordered his light cavalry on his left flank to circle around the
battle and claim Eumenes' baggage. Peithon, the commander of light
cavalry successfully captured the baggage without ever being noticed.
Meanwhile, Antigonus and his son, Demetrius, rode the heavy cavalry to
engage the light infantry and elephants. Under Eudemus, Eumenes's
heavy cavalry smashed this effort. However, Eumenes' elephants and
light infantry retreated, having been beaten by Antigonus' men. The
Argyraspides crushed the phalanx of Antigonus, killing an estimated
5,000 with minimal losses. Eumenes ordered Peucestas to engage
Antigonus' infantry, he refused. Antigonus' ordered his light cavalry
(Peithon) to end the plundering of Eumenes' camp and attack the
Argyraspides in their rear. Argyraspides formed into a square and
marched off the field in good order. It is assumed both sides received heavy losses. No numbers were available.
Eumenes was defeated at Gabiene, but he still possessed a formidable army. Failed to bring the army in the grips of another battle. NOTE: His satraps were concerned for the safety of their satrapies and wanted to retire. NOTE:
The Argyraspides opened up secret negotiations to get their baggage
back, which consisted of their wives, children, and treasure worth 40
years of plunder. The Argyraspides handed Eumenes over to Antigonus. Antigonus, reluctantly, executed Eumenes. NOTE: Eudemus and Antigenes were also executed.
Interesting note from Wikipedia on Eumenes ========================================= "The
Macedonians in his army were openly skeptical of Eumenes. Despite his
undeniable skills as a general, he never commanded their full
allegiance and died as a result. He was an able soldier who did his
utmost to maintain the unity of Alexander's empire in Asia; but his
efforts were frustrated by the generals and satraps, who hated and
despised him as a non-Macedonian general and mere secretary. Eumenes is
a tragic figure, a man who seemingly tried to do the right thing but
was overcome by a more ruthless enemy and the treachery of his own
soldiers."
NOTE: "Perdiccas, of the princely line of Orestis, was brave and a good soldier; he was probably loyal to Alexander's house, and meant to keep the empire together; but he saw that someone must exercise the actual power, and he meant it to be himself. He was, however, unconciliatory and inordinately proud, and probably difficult to work with." W. W.Tarn
Perdiccas was a member of the royal house of Orestis. His known relatives are, his brother Alketas - a taxiarch of Macedonian army - and a sister, namely Atalante who marries Attalos, the son of Andromenes.
Due to Philip's macedonian policy, Perdiccas as a member of Macedonian aristocracy, was brought to Pella and had his training as Pages of the king and syntrophos of Philip's sons.
NOTE: At the day of Philip's assasination, Perdiccas was mentioned as Somatophylax and together with Leonatos and Attalos chased and killed Pausanias, Philip's assasin. There were suspicions, Alexander gave the order to them for the quick killing of Pausanias in order to silence him. Under Alexander III [q.v.], successfully attacked the Illyrian camp of Kleitos and Glaucias during the night. He was personally leading the Orestian and Lyncestian brigades335 B.C. Rumor of Alexander dying in the Illyrian campaign caused the Thebes to openly rebel. After a short siege, his phalanx battalion stormed Thebes, Perdiccas was severely wounded. NOTE: (Ptolemy?) Arrian wrote that lack of discipline caused Perdiccas' men to assault Thebes earlier than planned while Diodorus said otherwise. Fact is that evenif there is a truth concerning this action, Alexander took no disciplinary measures against him and Perdiccas continued to command his brigade when the army crossed into Asia. Under Alexander, Perdiccas was in command of the battalion of phalanx at Granicus. 334 B.C.
GRANICUS RIVER May, 334 B.C. ====================================== Alexander (35,000) vs. Persian satraps Spithridates/Mithridates (38,000) After crossing the Hellespont, the Macedonian army marched on the road to Dascylium, the capital of Satrapy of Phrygia. The Persian army under Spirthridates and Mithridates wait for the Macedonians on the banks of the Granicus River. The Macedonian scouts spotted the Persian army. Memnon of Rhodes, captain of the 8,000 Greek mercenaries who left Greece to fight for the Persians, suggested a scorched-earth policy. This suggestion is rejected by the satraps. The Persians, according to Arrian, the Greek historian, placed their cavalry in front of their infantry and drew up on the east bank of the river. The Macedonians had their heavy Phalanxes in the middle and cavalry protecting their flanks. At the Graneikos river, Perdiccas was stationed between the hypaspists of Nikanor and Koinos brigade, which is the same position that he occupied at Issos and Gaugamela. The uneveness of the eastern bank held by the Persians caused many of the Macedonians great concern. It is not known if Alexander attacked immediately, or if he had crossed the river upstream and attacked at dawn (as suggested by Alexander's second-in-command, Parmenion). Alexander ordered Nicanor's cavalry and one battalion of hypaspists to feint attack the Persian left flank. The Persians reinforced their flank and the Macedonians feinted. With the feint objective met, Alexander and the Companion cavalry formed a wedge and charged into the weakened Persian center line. The Macedonian assault was so swift, perhaps because of the effective use of the river's current, and forceful that it pushed the Persians from the shore, alienating the calvary from the slow approaching phalanx. This allowed the Persians to countercharge. During this charge, many noteable Persian nobles were killed. Alexander was also stunned by an axe-blow but was saved by a man named Clitus the Black. The Macedonian cavalry, controlling the center of the battlefield, turned left and rolled up the Persian cavalry which had been engaged with the Macedonian left in a general engagement. A gaping hole in the center of the battlefield allowed the Macedonian phalanx to rush towards the Persian infantry in the rear. The Persian flanks broke and the infantry was routed. Many of the infantry were killed during the chase. The Greek mercenaries, sitting on top of the hill never engaging the Macedonians, were surrounded. Refusing to accept their surrender, Alexander defeats the Greek 'traitors'. 4,000 Persians killed (the majority killed during the rout) 2,000 Persians captured Spithridates was killed. 115 Macedonians killed. NOTE: Of the estimated 8,000 Greeks that fought for the Persians, 2,000 were captured and sent to Macedonian mines. Two years later, when asked for their release from citizens from various Greek city-states, including Athens, he freed them. NOTE: Memnon did not participate in this battle. .
A mathematician is a person who thinks that if there are supposed to be three people in a room, but five come out, then two more must enter the room in order for it to be empty.
He was an Oreitan (from the city of Oreus) who tried to stir up the city against Philip of Macedon and the city's pro-Macedonian party. His story is described by Demosthenes in his third Philippic.
A mathematician is a person who thinks that if there are supposed to be three people in a room, but five come out, then two more must enter the room in order for it to be empty.
Congrats for the topic and your splendid job Travis. I agree with most of what you have written so far and i have only some minor additions.
I will try to add some more infos, each time i find myself with free time.
Originally posted by Travis Congleton
Parmenion (circa 400 - 330 B.C.) ===================================== Macedonian general Son of Philotas, an Upper Macedonian nobleman Served under king Philip II. 360 - 336 B.C.
NOTE: His family held major commands at the court. During the first years of Philips reign he was ordered to put in death Euphraeus, an order he fulfilled at Oreus. Crushed the Illyrians of Grabos in a massive attack on the same day Aelxander was born. News from his victory forced Philip to remark that" whereas the Athenians elected 10 generals every years, he had found only one general in many years...Parmenion"356 B.C.
NOTE: He had 3 sons, namely Philotas, Nicanor, Hector and at least one daughter, whose name has not survived. Destroyed Halos, an important town in southern Thessaly. 346 B.C. Appointed to conclude peace with Athens with two other Macedonian generals, Antipater and Eurylochus. With Attalus, Amyntas Andromenes, and 10,000 troops, sent by Philip II to liberate Greek towns on the coast of Asia Minor. 336 B.C. NOTE: By this time, the Persian king, Artaxerxes IV Arses, was murdered. He was succeeded by his relative, Darius III Codomannus. The invasion causes the Greek towns in Asia to revolt. Suffered a serious defeat by ther Persian mercenary, Memnon of Rhodes, at Magnesia. NOTE: Though pushed back by Memnon, he managed to keep the army in Asia Minor. Alexander recognized as king of Macedonia. October 336 B.C. Attalus, Parmenion's relative and co-commander of the expedition into Asia Minor, is put to death from Hecataios with Parmenion approval due to political intrigue. NOTE: Somewhat interesting, though Attalus was related to Parmenion who was still in control of the army, Alexander almost dared the betrayal by having Attalus killed and giving Parmenion the capability to turn against him. NOTE: Alexander did put members of his family in key positions in the Macedonian army. Most noteably, Philotas, Parmenion's oldest son, was the commander of the Companion Cavalry. Parmenion's other son Nikanor led the hypaspists. Parmenion given the title, second-in-command, of the Macedonian Army. NOTE: He already received this title from Philip II. However, Alexander displays his trust to Parmenion by keeping him in this position when he easily could not have.
NOTE: Sometime after Attalus death, Parmenion captured Gryneion and sold its inhabitants into slavery. However he was forced by Memnon the Rhodian to abandon the siege of Pitane. King Alexander joined Parmenion in Asia Minor with reinforcements. May 334 B.C. The Persian satraps, Spithridates and Mithridates, assembled an army near Dascylium. With Alexander, moved against the Persian army.
GRANICUS RIVER May, 334 B.C. ====================================== Alexander (35,000) vs. Persian satraps Spithridates/Mithridates (38,000) After crossing the Hellespont, the Macedonian army marched on the road to Dascylium, the capital of Satrapy of Phrygia. The Persian army under Spirthridates and Mithridates wait for the Macedonians on the banks of the Granicus River. The Macedonian scouts spotted the Persian army. Memnon of Rhodes, captain of the 8,000 Greek mercenaries who left Greece to fight for the Persians, suggested a scorched-earth policy. This suggestion is rejected by the satraps. The Persians, according to Arrian, the Greek historian, placed their cavalry in front of their infantry and drew up on the east bank of the river. The Macedonians had their heavy Phalanxes in the middle and cavalry protecting their flanks. Parmenion commanded during the battle, the left including the Thessalian cavalry. The uneveness of the eastern bank held by the Persians caused many of the Macedonians great concern. It is not known if Alexander attacked immediately, or if he had crossed the river upstream and attacked at dawn (as suggested by Alexander's second-in-command, Parmenion). Alexander ordered Nicanor's cavalry and one battalion of hypaspists to feint attack the Persian left flank. The Persians reinforced their flank and the Macedonians feinted. With the feint objective met, Alexander and the Companion cavalry formed a wedge and charged into the weakened Persian center line. The Macedonian assault was so swift, perhaps because of the effective use of the river's current, and forceful that it pushed the Persians from the shore, alienating the calvary from the slow approaching phalanx. This allowed the Persians to countercharge. During this charge, many noteable Persian nobles were killed. Alexander was also stunned by an axe-blow but was saved by a man named Clitus the Black. The Macedonian cavalry, controlling the center of the battlefield, turned left and rolled up the Persian cavalry which had been engaged with the Macedonian left in a general engagement. A gaping hole in the center of the battlefield allowed the Macedonian phalanx to rush towards the Persian infantry in the rear. The Persian flanks broke and the infantry was routed. Many of the infantry were killed during the chase. The Greek mercenaries, sitting on top of the hill never engaging the Macedonians, were surrounded. Refusing to accept their surrender, Alexander defeats the Greek 'traitors'. 4,000 Persians killed (the majority killed during the rout) 2,000 Persians captured Spithridates was killed. 115 Macedonians killed. NOTE: Of the estimated 8,000 Greeks that fought for the Persians, 2,000 were captured and sent to Macedonian mines. Two years later, when asked for their release from citizens from various Greek city-states, including Athens, he freed them. NOTE: Memnon did not participate in this battle.
~SEE ALEXANDER III's PORTFOLIO TO VIEW MAP~
Captured Dascylium, the capital of Hellespontine Phrygia. One of his tasks was to ensure that Kalas, son of Harpalos - the new satrap - would be securely established there. NOTE: Sources say it fell without a struggle. Archaelogical evidence contradicts this. Captured Magnesia and Traaleis. NOTE: While Parmenion was doing this, Alexander captured Sardes, Ephesus, Miletus, and Halicarnassus. Parmenion rejoined Alexander at Miletus where he advised him not to disband the fleet. During the winter, Parmenion invaded central Turkey, drove out the Persian troops. NOTE: Alexander moved through Lycia while Parmenion was doing this.While being at Gordium, Parmenion caught the agent of Darius, Sisines who had been sent in order to contact Alexander of Lyncestis with alledgely aim the assasination of Alexander. Sisines was sent into chains to Alexander who was at Phaselis. In spring of333 B.C. Alexander came to Gordion leading the fresh reinforcements. With Alexander, moved east to Cilicia. Captured Tarsus without Alexander. NOTE: Alexander fell ill at this time. Interesting enough, Parmenion blamed Alexander's physician Alexander of Kappadokia (he was innocent of the charge). Alexander ignored Parmenion's advise. Occupied the Assyrian gates while Alexander was still in Cilicia. Received word that Darius' large army was at Sochi, two days away from his position. Alexander lost Darius; Parmenion convinced Alexander to remain where he is and not advance into the Assyrian plains. The Persians capture the empty camp near Issus, killing the sick and wounded left behind by Alexander. Hearing word of Darius behind him, Alexander moves towards Issus. Darius, either chasing Alexander or thinking the Macedonian army retreated, moves south when his scouts locate the Macedonian army, which had already passed the Pillar of Yunus. Darius moves from Issus and both armies find each other at the Pinarus river.
ISSUS 333 B.C. ========================= Alexander (40,000) vs. Darius III (91,000) Darrius III, with such a large force (20,000 Greek mercenaries, 60,000 Persian infantry, 11,000 Persian cavalry) and unable to supply it properly, was forced instigate the conflict. However, the Macedonian supply line is cut as well. Darius III positioned his army along the Pinarus river as Alexander approached. The Macedonian right flank was held by Alexander's Companion Cavalry and his Thessalian allied cavalry on the left with Parmenion in command of the phalanx. The Persian heavy cavalry is concentrated on the coast, their right flank, more Greek mercenaries. The Cardaces, Persian infantry, are spread along the river and foothills, wrapping around the other bank to expose Alexander's flank. Darius is located in the middle, with his best troops, the Greek mercenaries and his royal cavalry guard. Darius later sent parts of his cavalry along the possible exposed flank. Alexander reacts by two small detachments (Agrians and light cavalry) to protect the right flank and a greater number of cavalry to protect the left wing, which was positioned against the heavy Persian cavalry. The Persian cavalry cross the river and attack the Thessalian cavalry and Parmenion's horsemen. By late afternoon, Alexander, leading the Hypaspists on foot, charge against across the river and quickly overrun the surprisingly disorganized Cardaces' units. The Persian attack managed to push the cavalry back and penetrate the phalanx from the side. The Greek mercenaries put up stiff resistance against the Macedonians' central phalanx' attack. With the situation deteriotating on the Macedonian's left flank, the Greek mercenaries started to push the Macedonians back across the river. Despite what appeared to be the advantage, the Persian left wing collapsed and was turned. The Macedonians did not pursue, they turned on the flank of the Greek mercenaries. Mounting a horse, Alexander leads his Companion Cavalry against Darius. Viewing the situation, Darius immediately flees. With the king running off the field, the Persians abandon all efforts and are routed. Macedonian cavalry mercilessly pursue the Persians until night approaches. Despite the rout, the Greeks mercenaries retired in good order. Darius managed to escape. NOTE: In view of it all, Alexander used a sophisticated version of the oblique formation. Permenion was in charge of holding the Perisans right flank, while Alexander moved against the Persian left flank and, then, center. Darius fled to Euphrates, leaving his family behind (wife, children, and mother) and much of his kingdom's treasure. NOTE: Sisygambis, Darius' mother, disowned him and adopted Alexander. NOTE: First defeat Darius III experienced. 10,000 Persians are killed on the battlefield. Much more are killed during the rout. 450 Macedonians killed (Alexander was wounded).
~SEE ALEXANDER III's PORTFOLIO TO VIEW MAP~
NOTE: Rushed to Damascus and seized Darius' treasure. A purportedly letter is quoted by Athenaios (depnosoph) from Parmenion to Alexander, itemizing the captured spoils, among them 329 of Darius concubines After Issus, diplomatic exchanges took place, Parmenion recommended Alexander to accept Darius' off of 'all countries west of the Euphrates'; Alexander declined. Important command during the year 332 B.C.
Siege of TYRE 332 B.C. ========================= Alexander (23,000) vs. unknown (numbers not found) Built on an island a half mile off shore. the fortified city of Tyre poised as a threat to Alexander's plan of eliminating all Persian ports, thus ending a Persian invasion into Greece. Built a mole across the channel, but parts of it was destroyed by the Phoenician galleys. Consolidated his recent conquered assets (Sidon, Byblod, and Aradas) and with his other new allies (Rhodes and Cyprus) used their fleet to check the Tyrian galleys. Once the mole was completed, they immediately began to attempt to breach the Tyre defenses, which took considerable time. Alexander, leading the final storm of Tyre, successfully captured Tyre. 8,000 Tyrians killed. 30,000 Tyrians sold into slavery. NOTE: What took king Nebuchadnezzar II 13 years to fail to do, Alexander did in 7 months. NOTE: Darius III opened negotiations with Alexander, which was quickly turned down.
Siege of GAZA 332 B.C. ========================= Alexander (numbers not found) vs. Batis (numbers not found) While the siege was taking place, Alexander moved further along the coast and accepted more cities. Gaza, under Batis, refused to surrender. The heavily-fortified fort protecting Gaza laid on a hill. After Tyre, Alexander build ramps on the side of the hill. Gaza maintained it resistance for two months before it was finally taken. All the men were killed and the women and children were sold into slavery. Alexander was injured during the siege. NOTE: Immitating Achilles, Alexander dragged the body of Batis behind a chariot around the walls of Gaza.
Penetrated Mesopotamia and Assyria. Mazaeus, assigned to the new Persian army by Darius, marched up the Tigris to oppose him.
GAUGAMELA October 1, 331 B.C. ================================ Alexander (47,000) vs. Darius III (110,000) While Alexander was conquering the Mediterranean coast, Darius built a huge, but mostly inexperienced, army. When the Macedonian army arrived at the site of battle chosen by Darius, Alexander immediately set up camp. That night, Darius believed Alexander would attack, Darius had most of his men stay up the night in anticipation of the attack. Darius ordered the field to be smoothed out and cleared to enhance the performance of the 200 chariots (there were also 15 war elephants on play, however, they did not appear to be a factor in the battle). In the middle of the Persian army position was the elite infantry. On the right flank was the Carian cavalry, Greek mercenaries and Persian horse guards. Left flank was covered with mostly cavalry, under command of Bessus, from various regions and Mardian archers. Darius positioned himself with his infantry. Between the right flank and infantry, the Persian foot guards (Called the Immortals by the Greeks), Indian cavalry and Mardian archers stood guard. With yet more troops to place on the field, in front of the main army were Bactrian chariots. More varied cavalry were dispersed along the right flank, front, and left flank of the main army. This group of cavalry, althought widely spread out, was under the command of a single cavalry commander, Mazaeus. Macedonians, dispersed into two specific groups. Alexander rode with the Companion cavalry, Paionian, and the Macedonian light cavalry. The veteran mercenary cavalry was located on the right flank as well. The left flank, under command of Parmenion, consisted of Thessalian, Greek mercenary, and Thracian cavalry. The Agrians and Macedonian archers were stationed next to the phalanx, which was in a double-line formation. Alexander wanted Parmenion to hold the line while he struck at the heart of the Persian army. Combat was initiated by Darius, hurling his chariots at the Macedonian army. The chariots were easily stopped by the Agrianians, moved aside and persuading the horses to enter into a type of 'mousetrap'. Once the chariots were halted, the charioteers were killed. The Macedonian rearguard started to cover the Macedonian flanks as the Persians continued to curl up the Macedonian line. With the lines covered by the rearguard, Darius sent in more troops to circumvent the flank. This action caused a gap between Bessus's left and Darius' center. Alexander sent his last available cavalry reserves to protect the flanks. Alexander disengaged his Companions. Formed a cavalry wedge and charged into the main Persian line. The cavalry wedge crashed into the weakened Persian center, dismantling the royal elite troops and Greek mercenaries. Bessus, instead of supporting the defense of the king, pulled away from the attack. Darius, in fear of his life, broke. Receiving desperate messages from Parmenion, Alexander ended all thoughts of chasing Darius and aided the left flank, which had been violently pushed further to the left. This caused a huge gap between the Parmenion and the phalanx. The Persian and Indian cavalry units pored into that gap, however, instead of attacking the vulnerable flank and rear of the Phalanx or Parmenion, the went into the Macedonian camp and started looting it. NOTE: They attempted to rescue the Queen Mother Sisygambis, but she refused to go with them. The last available Macedonian reserves drove off the camp invaders, but received heavy casualties. In the meantime, Mazaeus attempted to disengage his force, however the disengagement turned into a chaotic rout as the Thessalian cavalry continued to pursue. Alexander pursued, but failed to capture, Darius, who fled to Ecbatana. Parmenion looted the Persian baggage train. 4,000 talents captured King's personal chariot and bow. NOTE: Darius maintained a small force as well as the Bessus' Bactrian cavalry, remnants of the Royal Guard and 2,000 Greek mercenaries. Darius planned to head East to raise another army and dispatched letters calling all Eastern satrapies to remain loyal. Casualties are too exaggerated to list. Safe to say high casualties among the Persians; less so for the Macedonians.
~SEE ALEXANDER III's PORTFOLIO TO VIEW MAP~
With Alexander, accepted the surrender of Babylonia. While Alexander used a small force to capture the Persian gate, Parmenion entered the plain of Persepolis from the south. 330 B.C. While Alexander chased king Darius, Parmenion conquered Ecbatana, another Persian capital. Pacified the mountain country of the Cadusians. Unaware that his son, Philotas, was accused of treason and executed. December 330 B.C. In Ecbatana, a courier arrived with a message to Atropates, the commander of the reinforcements, to kill the old general whom the letter accused him of treason. Parmenion was killed for a reason he did not know.
Famous exchange between Parmenion and Alexander about Darius' offer. ---------------------------------------------------- "I would accept it," said Parmenion after reading the proposal, "if I were Alexander." "So would I," replied Alexander, "if I were Parmenion."
Great comment from wikipedia ------------------------------------ "Parmenion was Philip II's most trusted general, and a major influence in the formation of the tough, disciplined and professional Macedonian army whose tactics would dominate land warfare for the succeeding centuries, arguably until the Marian Reforms of the Roman army in 107 BC."
~NOTE: No known images of Parmenion survived the age.
A mathematician is a person who thinks that if there are supposed to be three people in a room, but five come out, then two more must enter the room in order for it to be empty.
Cassander (circa 350 297 B.C.) ============================== king of Macedonia Founder of Antipatrid dynasty. First written about appearing in Babylon, defending his father against Olympias' accusations of disloyalty towards Alexander. After having his father passed over for Polyperchon as successor of Alexander's empire, Anitpater, starts a civil war against Polyperchon, Antipater' choice. Allied himself with Ptolemy Soter and Antigonus. NOTE: Polyperchon allies with Eumenes. Declares war. Most of the Greek city-states side with Cassander. Allied himself with king Philip Arrhidaeus, Had king Philip Arrhidaeus, Philip II's illegitimate son, and his wife, Eurydice, late Antipater's daughter, on his side. NOTE: Eurydice was Cassander's sister? Captures Athens. 317 B.C. Olympias, Alexander's mother, with Polyperchon, marches against Cassander's army under king Philip Arrhiaeus. Army refuses to fight Alexander IV, Alexander's son, and Olympias, huge defection occurs. King Philip Arrhidaeus and Eurdice are captured and murdered by Olympias. NOTE: Nicanor, Cassander's brother, was also murdered. Moving against Olympias, forces her to seek protection behind the walls of Pydna. Repulses the rescue attempts of Polyperchon and Aeachidas. Captures Olympias. NOTE: Olympias is executed. Cassander attempts to reconcil with Polyperchon, but is rejected. NOTE: Cassander starts to lose cities to Antigonus. Peace Treaty was made between the Diadochi. NOTE: In the agreement, poisoned Roxana, the former wife of Alexander, and Alexander IV, the son of Alexander III [q.v.]311 B.C. Bribed Polyperchon to poison Heracles, Alexander's illegitimate son. 309 B.C. Made the royal connection by marrying Thessalonica, a half-sister of Alexander the Great. Formed an alliance with Seleucus. After the death of Antigonus, became the undisputed sovereign of Macedonia. 301 B.C. Died of dropsy. 297 B.C.
Polyperchon (394 - 303 B.C.) ========================================== Macedonian general Regent for king Philip Arridaeus and Alexander IV, the son of Alexander the Great. Son of a Macedonian nobleman, Simmias. NOTE: His birthplace in Macedon was considered the most backward region in Macedon. Served under Philip II and Alexander the Great. Served as an officer in the Tymphaean brigade during Alexander's invasion of Persia. 334 B.C. During the battle of Gaugamela, was commander of the Typhaean brigade or the foreign troops. 331 B.C.
GAUGAMELA October 1, 331 B.C. ================================ Alexander (47,000) vs. Darius III (110,000) While
Alexander was conquering the Mediterranean coast, Darius built a huge,
but mostly inexperienced, army. When the Macedonian army arrived at
the site of battle chosen by Darius, Alexander immediately set up
camp. That night, Darius believed Alexander would attack, Darius had
most of his men stay up the night in anticipation of the attack.
Darius ordered the field to be smoothed out and cleared to enhance the
performance of the 200 chariots (there were also 15 war elephants on
play, however, they did not appear to be a factor in the battle). In
the middle of the Persian army position was the elite infantry. On the
right flank was the Carian cavalry, Greek mercenaries and Persian horse
guards. Left flank was covered with mostly cavalry, under command of
Bessus, from various regions and Mardian archers. Darius positioned
himself with his infantry. Between the right flank and infantry, the
Persian foot guards (Called the Immortals by the Greeks), Indian
cavalry and Mardian archers stood guard. With yet more troops to place
on the field, in front of the main army were Bactrian chariots. More
varied cavalry were dispersed along the right flank, front, and left
flank of the main army. This group of cavalry, althought widely spread
out, was under the command of a single cavalry commander, Mazaeus.
Macedonians, dispersed into two specific groups. Alexander rode with
the Companion cavalry, Paionian, and the Macedonian light cavalry. The
veteran mercenary cavalry was located on the right flank as well. The
left flank, under command of Parmenion, consisted of Thessalian, Greek
mercenary, and Thracian cavalry. The Agrians and Macedonian archers
were stationed next to the phalanx, which was in a double-line
formation. Alexander wanted Parmenion to hold the line while he struck
at the heart of the Persian army. Combat was initiated by Darius,
hurling his chariots at the Macedonian army. The chariots were easily
stopped by the Agrianians, moved aside and persuading the horses to
enter into a type of 'mousetrap'. Once the chariots were halted, the
charioteers were killed. The Macedonian rearguard started to cover the
Macedonian flanks as the Persians continued to curl up the Macedonian
line. With the lines covered by the rearguard, Darius sent in more
troops to circumvent the flank. This action caused a gap between
Bessus's left and Darius' center. Alexander sent his last available
cavalry reserves to protect the flanks. Alexander disengaged his
Companions. Formed a cavalry wedge and charged into the main Persian
line. The cavalry wedge crashed into the weakened Persian center,
dismantling the royal elite troops and Greek mercenaries. Bessus,
instead of supporting the defense of the king, pulled away from the
attack. Darius, in fear of his life, broke. Receiving desperate
messages from Parmenion, Alexander ended all thoughts of chasing Darius
and aided the left flank, which had been violently pushed further to
the left. This caused a huge gap between the Parmenion and the
phalanx. The Persian and Indian cavalry units pored into that gap,
however, instead of attacking the vulnerable flank and rear of the
Phalanx or Parmenion, the went into the Macedonian camp and started
looting it. NOTE: They attempted to rescue the Queen Mother
Sisygambis, but she refused to go with them. The last available
Macedonian reserves drove off the camp invaders, but received heavy
casualties. In the meantime, Mazaeus attempted to disengage his force,
however the disengagement turned into a chaotic rout as the Thessalian
cavalry continued to pursue. Alexander pursued, but failed to capture,
Darius, who fled to Ecbatana. Parmenion looted the Persian baggage
train. 4,000 talents captured King's personal chariot and bow. NOTE:
Darius maintained a small force as well as the Bessus' Bactrian
cavalry, remnants of the Royal Guard and 2,000 Greek mercenaries.
Darius planned to head East to raise another army and dispatched
letters calling all Eastern satrapies to remain loyal. Casualties are too exaggerated to list. Safe to say high casualties among the Persians; less so for the Macedonians.
Independent command in Gandara. Captured Ora in the Swat Valley. 326 B.C. After returning to Babylon from the Indian campaign, sent to Macedon with Craterus. 324 B.C. Reached Cilicia when word of Alexander's death arrived. with Craterus, continued to Greece. Helped Antipater defeat the Greek rebellion (Lamian War).
LAMIAN WAR - CRANNON 322 B.C. =============================================== Antipater/Craterus (35,000) vs. Leosthenes/Hyperides (numbers not found) Athens, supported by Aetholians and Thessalians, revolted. NOTE:
Demosthenes comes out of exile to join them. Leosthenes gathers a
large Greek mercenary army in Lacinia. The Macedonians, lead by
Antipater, had 22,000 troops, but received 13,000 Asian troops under
the command of the Diadochi, Leonatus of Phrygia. Led by Leosthenes,
the Greek army easily occupied the Thermopylae Pass and forced
Antipater to retreat into the Lamia fortress (name of war based on this
fortress). News of the Macedonian fleet, led by Cleitus, destroyed the
Athenian fleet at Amorgus inspired the troops inside the fortress.
Craterus, with the arrival of 11,500 troops arrived to relieve the
fortress. During a cavalry skirmish, the Greek general, Leosthenes was
killed. The Macedonian Leonatus, satrap of Hellesport Phrygia, was
also killed. Craterus successfully relieved the fortress. At Crannon,
the Macedonian army, 9,500 strong, under Antipater, crushed the
6,000-Greek army led by Hyperides. The war ended at Crannon. A
complete Macedonian victory. So decisive, it ended Greek city-state
freedom. Hyperides was executed. Demosthenes committed suicide. in Calauria Island.
Remained in Macedon during the First War of the Diadochi. NOTE: Antipater moved against Perdiccas and Eumenes in Asia Minor. Antipater became regent of Alexander's empire. 321 B.C. NOTE:
After Perdiccas's murdered, the regency of the empire was offered to
Ptolemy, who declined. He appointed Peithon and Arridaeus, two
inexperienced officers, as regents of the empire. Antipater changed
all this in the Treaty of Triparadeisos. After Antipater's death, appointed regent of Alexander's empire. 319 B.C. Cassander, Antipater's jilted son, started a civil war against Polyperchon. NOTE: Antigonus and Ptolemy put their hats in for Cassander. Polyperchon allied with Eumenes. NOTE: Made king Philip write a letter to Eumenes implying an alliance. Eumenes seized the royal treasures and went to Phoenicia, defeated Ptolemy's forces and build a navy for Polyperchon. 318 B.C. Declared the Greek city-states independence. Fleet was destroyed by Antigonus' fleet in the Bosporus. NOTE: Eumenes' fleet never appeared. Lost control of the Aegean Sea to Antigonus. Cassander captures Athens. 317 B.C. Forced to leave Macedon. Cassander
controlled king Philip Arrhidaeus, the late king Philip II's
illegitmate son, and his wife Eurydice, the late Antipater's daughter. Flees to Epirus with Alexander's mother, Olympias, widow, Roxana and infant son, Alexander IV. Formed an alliance with Olympias and king Aeacides of Epirus. With Olympias, leads the army into Macedon. The Macedonian army, under king Philip Arrhidaeus and his wife Eurydice, virtually abandons him and sides with Polyperchon. 317 B.C. NOTE: Philip Arrhidaeus, illegitimate son of Philip II and satrap of Hellespontine Phrygia, executed. NOTE: His wife Eurydice, daughter of the late Antipater, was forced to committ suicide. NOTE: Many supporters of Cassander were massacred. Cassander returned from the Peloponnesus. Forcing Olympias and her army to seek the walls of Pydna. Cassander invested Pydna. Polyperchon and Aeachidas are unable to relieve the siege. Cassander captures Olympias. NOTE: Olympias is executed. Flees to the Pelopnnesus. Controls Corinth and Sicyon, but overall his political clout was all but gone. Polyperchon receives money from Antigonus; gives title of regent to Antigonus. Cassander attempts to reconcil with Polyperchon, but is rejected. NOTE: Cassander starts to lose cities to Antigonus. Peace Treaty was made between the Diadochi. NOTE: In the agreement, Roxane and Alexander IV, thirteen year old son of Alexander the Great, are executed. 311 B.C. Antigonus began to distance himself from Polyperchon. Receives Heracles, Alexanders' son to a Persian mistress, Barsine, from Antigonus; a political play against Cassander. Ordered the execution of Hercles and Barsine. 309 B.C. NOTE: Cassander convinced Polyperchon that Antigonus was too unstable of a man to side with. Retained control of the Peloponnesus until his death. 303 B.C.
Craterus (circa 370 - 321 B.C.) ========================================== Macedonian general One of the Diadochi Son of Alexander, a Macedonian nobleman. As a commander of the Macedonian phalanx, participated in the battle at Granius River.
GRANICUS RIVER May, 334 B.C. ====================================== Alexander (35,000) vs. Persian satraps Spithridates/Mithridates (38,000) After
crossing the Hellespont, the Macedonian army marched on the road to
Dascylium, the capital of Satrapy of Phrygia. The Persian army under
Spirthridates and Mithridates wait for the Macedonians on the banks of
the Granicus River. The Macedonian scouts spotted the Persian army.
Memnon of Rhodes, captain of the 8,000 Greek mercenaries who left
Greece to fight for the Persians, suggested a scorched-earth policy.
This suggestion is rejected by the satraps. The Persians, according to
Arrian, the Greek historian, placed their cavalry in front of their
infantry and drew up on the east bank of the river. The Macedonians
had their heavy Phalanxes in the middle and cavalry protecting their
flanks. The uneveness of the eastern bank held by the Persians caused
many of the Macedonians great concern. It is not known if Alexander
attacked immediately, or if he had crossed the river upstream and
attacked at dawn (as suggested by Alexander's second-in-command,
Parmenion). Alexander ordered Nicanor's cavalry and one battalion of
hypaspists to feint attack the Persian left flank. The Persians
reinforced their flank and the Macedonians feinted. With the feint
objective met, Alexander and the Companion cavalry formed a wedge and
charged into the weakened Persian center line. The Macedonian assault
was so swift, perhaps because of the effective use of the river's
current, and forceful that it pushed the Persians from the shore,
alienating the calvary from the slow approaching phalanx. This allowed
the Persians to countercharge. During this charge, many noteable
Persian nobles were killed. Alexander was also stunned by an axe-blow
but was saved by a man named Clitus the Black. The Macedonian cavalry,
controlling the center of the battlefield, turned left and rolled up
the Persian cavalry which had been engaged with the Macedonian left in
a general engagement. A gaping hole in the center of the battlefield
allowed the Macedonian phalanx to rush towards the Persian infantry in
the rear. The Persian flanks broke and the infantry was routed. Many
of the infantry were killed during the chase. The Greek mercenaries,
sitting on top of the hill never engaging the Macedonians, were
surrounded. Refusing to accept their surrender, Alexander defeats the
Greek 'traitors'. 4,000 Persians killed (the majority killed during the rout) 2,000 Persians captured Spithridates was killed. 115 Macedonians killed. NOTE:
Of the estimated 8,000 Greeks that fought for the Persians, 2,000 were
captured and sent to Macedonian mines. Two years later, when asked for
their release from citizens from various Greek city-states, including
Athens, he freed them. NOTE: Memnon did not participate in this battle.
Proving his worth Alexander gave him commanded of the phalanx and all infantry on the left wing in the battle of Issus.
ISSUS 333 B.C. ========================= Alexander (40,000) vs. Darius III (91,000) Darrius
III, with such a large force (20,000 Greek mercenaries, 60,000 Persian
infantry, 11,000 Persian cavalry) and unable to supply it properly, was
forced instigate the conflict. However, the Macedonian supply line is
cut as well. Darius III positioned his army along the Pinarus river as
Alexander approached. The Macedonian right flank was held by
Alexander's Companion Cavalry and his Thessalian allied cavalry on the
left with Parmenion in command of the phalanx. The Persian heavy
cavalry is concentrated on the coast, their right flank, more Greek
mercenaries. The Cardaces, Persian infantry, are spread along the
river and foothills, wrapping around the other bank to expose
Alexander's flank. Darius is located in the middle, with his best
troops, the Greek mercenaries and his royal cavalry guard. Darius
later sent parts of his cavalry along the possible exposed flank.
Alexander reacts by two small detachments (Agrians and light cavalry)
to protect the right flank and a greater number of cavalry to protect
the left wing, which was positioned against the heavy Persian cavalry.
The Persian cavalry cross the river and attack the Thessalian cavalry
and Parmenion's horsemen. By late afternoon, Alexander, leading the
Hypaspists on foot, charge against across the river and quickly overrun
the surprisingly disorganized Cardaces' units. The Persian attack
managed to push the cavalry back and penetrate the phalanx from the
side. The Greek mercenaries put up stiff resistance against the
Macedonians' central phalanx' attack. With the situation deteriotating
on the Macedonian's left flank, the Greek mercenaries started to push
the Macedonians back across the river. Despite what appeared to be the
advantage, the Persian left wing collapsed and was turned. The
Macedonians did not pursue, they turned on the flank of the Greek
mercenaries. Mounting a horse, Alexander leads his Companion Cavalry
against Darius. Viewing the situation, Darius immediately flees. With
the king running off the field, the Persians abandon all efforts and
are routed. Macedonian cavalry mercilessly pursue the Persians until
night approaches. Despite the rout, the Greeks mercenaries retired in
good order. Darius managed to escape. NOTE: In view of it
all, Alexander used a sophisticated version of the oblique formation.
Permenion was in charge of holding the Perisans right flank, while
Alexander moved against the Persian left flank and, then, center.
Darius fled to Euphrates, leaving his family behind (wife, children,
and mother) and much of his kingdom's treasure. NOTE: Sisygambis, Darius' mother, disowned him and adopted Alexander. NOTE: First defeat Darius III experienced. 10,000 Persians are killed on the battlefield. Much more are killed during the rout. 450 Macedonians killed (Alexander was wounded).
During the siege of Tyre, he was the naval commander on the left wing. As with the battle at Issus, he commanded the phalanx and all infantry on the left wing in the Gaugamela battle.
GAUGAMELA October 1, 331 B.C. ================================ Alexander (47,000) vs. Darius III (110,000) While
Alexander was conquering the Mediterranean coast, Darius built a huge,
but mostly inexperienced, army. When the Macedonian army arrived at
the site of battle chosen by Darius, Alexander immediately set up
camp. That night, Darius believed Alexander would attack, Darius had
most of his men stay up the night in anticipation of the attack.
Darius ordered the field to be smoothed out and cleared to enhance the
performance of the 200 chariots (there were also 15 war elephants on
play, however, they did not appear to be a factor in the battle). In
the middle of the Persian army position was the elite infantry. On the
right flank was the Carian cavalry, Greek mercenaries and Persian horse
guards. Left flank was covered with mostly cavalry, under command of
Bessus, from various regions and Mardian archers. Darius positioned
himself with his infantry. Between the right flank and infantry, the
Persian foot guards (Called the Immortals by the Greeks), Indian
cavalry and Mardian archers stood guard. With yet more troops to place
on the field, in front of the main army were Bactrian chariots. More
varied cavalry were dispersed along the right flank, front, and left
flank of the main army. This group of cavalry, althought widely spread
out, was under the command of a single cavalry commander, Mazaeus.
Macedonians, dispersed into two specific groups. Alexander rode with
the Companion cavalry, Paionian, and the Macedonian light cavalry. The
veteran mercenary cavalry was located on the right flank as well. The
left flank, under command of Parmenion, consisted of Thessalian, Greek
mercenary, and Thracian cavalry. The Agrians and Macedonian archers
were stationed next to the phalanx, which was in a double-line
formation. Alexander wanted Parmenion to hold the line while he struck
at the heart of the Persian army. Combat was initiated by Darius,
hurling his chariots at the Macedonian army. The chariots were easily
stopped by the Agrianians, moved aside and persuading the horses to
enter into a type of 'mousetrap'. Once the chariots were halted, the
charioteers were killed. The Macedonian rearguard started to cover the
Macedonian flanks as the Persians continued to curl up the Macedonian
line. With the lines covered by the rearguard, Darius sent in more
troops to circumvent the flank. This action caused a gap between
Bessus's left and Darius' center. Alexander sent his last available
cavalry reserves to protect the flanks. Alexander disengaged his
Companions. Formed a cavalry wedge and charged into the main Persian
line. The cavalry wedge crashed into the weakened Persian center,
dismantling the royal elite troops and Greek mercenaries. Bessus,
instead of supporting the defense of the king, pulled away from the
attack. Darius, in fear of his life, broke. Receiving desperate
messages from Parmenion, Alexander ended all thoughts of chasing Darius
and aided the left flank, which had been violently pushed further to
the left. This caused a huge gap between the Parmenion and the
phalanx. The Persian and Indian cavalry units pored into that gap,
however, instead of attacking the vulnerable flank and rear of the
Phalanx or Parmenion, the went into the Macedonian camp and started
looting it. NOTE: They attempted to rescue the Queen Mother
Sisygambis, but she refused to go with them. The last available
Macedonian reserves drove off the camp invaders, but received heavy
casualties. In the meantime, Mazaeus attempted to disengage his force,
however the disengagement turned into a chaotic rout as the Thessalian
cavalry continued to pursue. Alexander pursued, but failed to capture,
Darius, who fled to Ecbatana. Parmenion looted the Persian baggage
train. 4,000 talents captured King's personal chariot and bow. NOTE:
Darius maintained a small force as well as the Bessus' Bactrian
cavalry, remnants of the Royal Guard and 2,000 Greek mercenaries.
Darius planned to head East to raise another army and dispatched
letters calling all Eastern satrapies to remain loyal. Casualties are too exaggerated to list. Safe to say high casualties among the Pe
During the invasion of Persia proper, was commanding with Alexander against the Uxians and near the Persian gate. Commands the main Macedonian army while Alexander commands the vanguard in the pursuit of Darius III. Commanded the rearguard during the campaign against the rebel satrap Satibarzanes. First independent command was to lead a Macedonian army in Hyrcania against the Tapurians. Reported to Alexander that Philotas had failed to report a conspiracy. NOTE:
This lead to the torture and eventually execution of Philotas and the
execution of Parmenion, Philotas' father, who could have brought about
revenge. NTOE: Arrian of Nicomedia, our most reliable source does not mention Craterus in this affair. Captured Cyreschata, one of the largest towns in Sogdia. 329 B.C. Cavalry commander during the fight against the Massagetes. Managed the military settlements in Margiana. Defeated teh Pareitecanians located just east of Sogdia. Fortified several towns while Alexander invaded Gandara. 326 B.C. During
the battle at Hydaspes, commanded the rearguard, which stayed on the
western bank. Did not join the battle until well after the main events
had already transpired. Ordered to build the cities Nicaea and Bucephala. Marched down the river Hydaspes, Acesines, and Indus rivers with Alexander Command of one of the two armies during this march NOTE: Hephaestion was the commander of the other army. Ordered by Alexander to take the army to the west. 325 B.C. NOTE: During this march to Carmania, arrested an otherwise unknown rebel named Ordanes. Met Alexander in Carmania. With Alexander, arrived in Susa. 323 B.C. Married princess Amastris, Oxyathres's daughter, brother of Darius III. Along with Polyperchon, appointed to lead 11,500 soldiers back to Macedonia. Building a fleet in Cilicia to use against Carthage when news came about of Alexander's death. Aided Antipater against the revolting Greeks in the Lamian War. 322 B.C.
LAMIAN WAR - CRANNON 322 B.C. ============================================== Antipater/Craterus (35,000) vs. Leosthenes/Hyperides (numbers not found) Athens, supported by Aetholians and Thessalians, revolted. NOTE:
Demosthenes comes out of exile to join them. Leosthenes gathers a
large Greek mercenary army in Lacinia. The Macedonians, lead by
Antipater, had 22,000 troops, but received 13,000 Asian troops under
the command of the Diadochi, Leonatus of Phrygia. Led by Leosthenes,
the Greek army easily occupied the Thermopylae Pass and forced
Antipater to retreat into the Lamia fortress (name of war based on this
fortress). News of the Macedonian fleet, led by Cleitus, destroyed the
Athenian fleet at Amorgus inspired the troops inside the fortress.
Craterus, with the arrival of 11,500 troops arrived to relieve the
fortress. During a cavalry skirmish, the Greek general, Leosthenes was
killed. The Macedonian Leonatus was also killed. Craterus
successfully relieved the fortress. At Crannon, the Macedonian army,
9,500 strong, under Antipater, crushed the 6,000-Greek army led by
Hyperides. The war ended at Crannon. A complete Macedonian victory.
So decisive, it ended Greek city-state freedom. Hyperides was executed. Demosthenes committed suicide. in Calauria Island.
Joined forces with Antigonus against Perdiccas and Eumenes. Marries Phila, Antipater's daughter. Leading his forces in battle, his army was defeated by the inexperienced Eumenes near Hellespont. Craterus was killed in battle. 321 B.C. NOTE: No details about this battle was available.
NOTE:
Craterus only son, with Phila, Craterus (321-250 B.C.) ordered a statue
of his father and Alexander in a lion hunt that was made by the famous
sculptor, Lysippus. It was placed in Delphi.
An ancient anecdote ================================ "Craterus
loved Alexander as a king (philobasileus) but that Alexander's lover
Hephaestion loved him because he was Alexander (philalexandros)."
Perdiccas (circa 360 - 320 B.C.) Son of Orontes. Under Alexander III [q.v.], successfully attacked the Illyrian camp during the night. 335 B.C. Rumor of Alexander dying in the Illyrian campaign caused the Thebes to openly rebel. After a short siege, his phalanx battalion stormed Thebes, Perdiccas was severely wounded. NOTE: Ptolemy wrote that lack of discipline caused Perdiccas' men to assault Thebes earlier than planned. Under Alexander, Perdiccas was in command of the battalion of phalanx at Granicus. 334 B.C.
GRANICUS RIVER May, 334 B.C. ====================================== Alexander (35,000) vs. Persian satraps Spithridates/Mithridates (38,000) After
crossing the Hellespont, the Macedonian army marched on the road to
Dascylium, the capital of Satrapy of Phrygia. The Persian army under
Spirthridates and Mithridates wait for the Macedonians on the banks of
the Granicus River. The Macedonian scouts spotted the Persian army.
Memnon of Rhodes, captain of the 8,000 Greek mercenaries who left
Greece to fight for the Persians, suggested a scorched-earth policy.
This suggestion is rejected by the satraps. The Persians, according to
Arrian, the Greek historian, placed their cavalry in front of their
infantry and drew up on the east bank of the river. The Macedonians
had their heavy Phalanxes in the middle and cavalry protecting their
flanks. The uneveness of the eastern bank held by the Persians caused
many of the Macedonians great concern. It is not known if Alexander
attacked immediately, or if he had crossed the river upstream and
attacked at dawn (as suggested by Alexander's second-in-command,
Parmenion). Alexander ordered Nicanor's cavalry and one battalion of
hypaspists to feint attack the Persian left flank. The Persians
reinforced their flank and the Macedonians feinted. With the feint
objective met, Alexander and the Companion cavalry formed a wedge and
charged into the weakened Persian center line. The Macedonian assault
was so swift, perhaps because of the effective use of the river's
current, and forceful that it pushed the Persians from the shore,
alienating the calvary from the slow approaching phalanx. This allowed
the Persians to countercharge. During this charge, many noteable
Persian nobles were killed. Alexander was also stunned by an axe-blow
but was saved by a man named Clitus the Black. The Macedonian cavalry,
controlling the center of the battlefield, turned left and rolled up
the Persian cavalry which had been engaged with the Macedonian left in
a general engagement. A gaping hole in the center of the battlefield
allowed the Macedonian phalanx to rush towards the Persian infantry in
the rear. The Persian flanks broke and the infantry was routed. Many
of the infantry were killed during the chase. The Greek mercenaries,
sitting on top of the hill never engaging the Macedonians, were
surrounded. Refusing to accept their surrender, Alexander defeats the
Greek 'traitors'. 4,000 Persians killed (the majority killed during the rout) 2,000 Persians captured Spithridates was killed. 115 Macedonians killed. NOTE:
Of the estimated 8,000 Greeks that fought for the Persians, 2,000 were
captured and sent to Macedonian mines. Two years later, when asked for
their release from citizens from various Greek city-states, including
Athens, he freed them. NOTE: Memnon did not participate in this battle.
At
the siege of Halicarnassus, the important Persian naval base,
Perdiccas' battlion were turned back in the attempt to take the walls. NOTE: Later, Alexander took the city.
Participated at the battle of Issus. ISSUS 333 B.C. ========================= Alexander (40,000) vs. Darius III (91,000) Darrius
III, with such a large force (20,000 Greek mercenaries, 60,000 Persian
infantry, 11,000 Persian cavalry) and unable to supply it properly, was
forced instigate the conflict. However, the Macedonian supply line is
cut as well. Darius III positioned his army along the Pinarus river as
Alexander approached. The Macedonian right flank was held by
Alexander's Companion Cavalry and his Thessalian allied cavalry on the
left with Parmenion in command of the phalanx. The Persian heavy
cavalry is concentrated on the coast, their right flank, more Greek
mercenaries. The Cardaces, Persian infantry, are spread along the
river and foothills, wrapping around the other bank to expose
Alexander's flank. Darius is located in the middle, with his best
troops, the Greek mercenaries and his royal cavalry guard. Darius
later sent parts of his cavalry along the possible exposed flank.
Alexander reacts by two small detachments (Agrians and light cavalry)
to protect the right flank and a greater number of cavalry to protect
the left wing, which was positioned against the heavy Persian cavalry.
The Persian cavalry cross the river and attack the Thessalian cavalry
and Parmenion's horsemen. By late afternoon, Alexander, leading the
Hypaspists on foot, charge against across the river and quickly overrun
the surprisingly disorganized Cardaces' units. The Persian attack
managed to push the cavalry back and penetrate the phalanx from the
side. The Greek mercenaries put up stiff resistance against the
Macedonians' central phalanx' attack. With the situation deteriotating
on the Macedonian's left flank, the Greek mercenaries started to push
the Macedonians back across the river. Despite what appeared to be the
advantage, the Persian left wing collapsed and was turned. The
Macedonians did not pursue, they turned on the flank of the Greek
mercenaries. Mounting a horse, Alexander leads his Companion Cavalry
against Darius. Viewing the situation, Darius immediately flees. With
the king running off the field, the Persians abandon all efforts and
are routed. Macedonian cavalry mercilessly pursue the Persians until
night approaches. Despite the rout, the Greeks mercenaries retired in
good order. Darius managed to escape. NOTE: In view of it
all, Alexander used a sophisticated version of the oblique formation.
Permenion was in charge of holding the Perisans right flank, while
Alexander moved against the Persian left flank and, then, center.
Darius fled to Euphrates, leaving his family behind (wife, children,
and mother) and much of his kingdom's treasure. NOTE: Sisygambis, Darius' mother, disowned him and adopted Alexander. NOTE: First defeat Darius III experienced. 10,000 Persians are killed on the battlefield. Much more are killed during the rout. 450 Macedonians killed (Alexander was wounded).
~ SEE ALEXANDER'S PORTFOLIO TO VIEW THE ISSUS BATTLE MAP ~
Alexander gave Perdiccas independent command of the army, while he focused on the siege of Tyre. Not known if he participated in Alexander's successful Egyptian campaign. Played an important role in the battle at Gaugamela. Commanded a phalanx battalion and was, again, seriously wounded.
GAUGAMELA October 1, 331 B.C. ================================ Alexander (47,000) vs. Darius III (110,000) While
Alexander was conquering the Mediterranean coast, Darius built a huge,
but mostly inexperienced, army. When the Macedonian army arrived at
the site of battle chosen by Darius, Alexander immediately set up
camp. That night, Darius believed Alexander would attack, Darius had
most of his men stay up the night in anticipation of the attack.
Darius ordered the field to be smoothed out and cleared to enhance the
performance of the 200 chariots (there were also 15 war elephants on
play, however, they did not appear to be a factor in the battle). In
the middle of the Persian army position was the elite infantry. On the
right flank was the Carian cavalry, Greek mercenaries and Persian horse
guards. Left flank was covered with mostly cavalry, under command of
Bessus, from various regions and Mardian archers. Darius positioned
himself with his infantry. Between the right flank and infantry, the
Persian foot guards (Called the Immortals by the Greeks), Indian
cavalry and Mardian archers stood guard. With yet more troops to place
on the field, in front of the main army were Bactrian chariots. More
varied cavalry were dispersed along the right flank, front, and left
flank of the main army. This group of cavalry, althought widely spread
out, was under the command of a single cavalry commander, Mazaeus.
Macedonians, dispersed into two specific groups. Alexander rode with
the Companion cavalry, Paionian, and the Macedonian light cavalry. The
veteran mercenary cavalry was located on the right flank as well. The
left flank, under command of Parmenion, consisted of Thessalian, Greek
mercenary, and Thracian cavalry. The Agrians and Macedonian archers
were stationed next to the phalanx, which was in a double-line
formation. Alexander wanted Parmenion to hold the line while he struck
at the heart of the Persian army. Combat was initiated by Darius,
hurling his chariots at the Macedonian army. The chariots were easily
stopped by the Agrianians, moved aside and persuading the horses to
enter into a type of 'mousetrap'. Once the chariots were halted, the
charioteers were killed. The Macedonian rearguard started to cover the
Macedonian flanks as the Persians continued to curl up the Macedonian
line. With the lines covered by the rearguard, Darius sent in more
troops to circumvent the flank. This action caused a gap between
Bessus's left and Darius' center. Alexander sent his last available
cavalry reserves to protect the flanks. Alexander disengaged his
Companions. Formed a cavalry wedge and charged into the main Persian
line. The cavalry wedge crashed into the weakened Persian center,
dismantling the royal elite troops and Greek mercenaries. Bessus,
instead of supporting the defense of the king, pulled away from the
attack. Darius, in fear of his life, broke. Receiving desperate
messages from Parmenion, Alexander ended all thoughts of chasing Darius
and aided the left flank, which had been violently pushed further to
the left. This caused a huge gap between the Parmenion and the
phalanx. The Persian and Indian cavalry units pored into that gap,
however, instead of attacking the vulnerable flank and rear of the
Phalanx or Parmenion, the went into the Macedonian camp and started
looting it. NOTE: They attempted to rescue the Queen Mother
Sisygambis, but she refused to go with them. The last available
Macedonian reserves drove off the camp invaders, but received heavy
casualties. In the meantime, Mazaeus attempted to disengage his force,
however the disengagement turned into a chaotic rout as the Thessalian
cavalry continued to pursue. Alexander pursued, but failed to capture,
Darius, who fled to Ecbatana. Parmenion looted the Persian baggage
train. 4,000 talents captured King's personal chariot and bow. NOTE:
Darius maintained a small force as well as the Bessus' Bactrian
cavalry, remnants of the Royal Guard and 2,000 Greek mercenaries.
Darius planned to head East to raise another army and dispatched
letters calling all Eastern satrapies to remain loyal. Casualties are too exaggerated to list. Safe to say high casualties among the Persians; less so for the Macedonians.
~ SEE ALEXANDER'S PORTFOLIO TO VIEW THE ISSUS BATTLE MAP ~
Perdiccas successfully secured the Persian gate. NOTE: Some sources say Coenus' battalion did this. Perdiccas is known to have participated in one of the towns in Sogdia. NOTE: Two years after Gaugamela, little is written about Perdiccas. Assigned as one of Alexander's seven bodyguards [Adjutants].
During the invasion of Gandara, with Hephaestion, built ships to make a bridge to cross the Cophen and Indus rivers. With Hephaestion, successfully captured Peucelaotis. Was a cavalry commander at the battle of the Hydaspes river.
HYDASPES May 326 ================================== Alexander III (54,000) vs. Porus (22,000) With
his new ally, raja Ambhi of Taxila, Alexander arrived on the banks of
the Hydaspes river. Porus wanted to hold Alexander on the wide banks
of the Hydaspes river, which had melted waters from the Himalayas. The
Macedonians marched and countermarched up and down the river for
several days. Coenus, a Macedonian officer, had brought boats that
were used to cross the Indus river. During the night and in the mists
of a storm, Alexander and a small contingent of his army moved away
from the river and through a valley. NOTE: Craterus was given
command at the main base. At dawn and upstream from their main base,
the Macedonians crossed the river. Porus was unaware that Alexander
had crossed the river seventeen miles upstream. Suddenly alerted but
thinking the force that the force that did cross was insignificant,
Porus sent a small cavalry under his son to investiage. The Indian
force was easily repulsed and Porus' son was killed. Hearing the news
of the defeat, Porus left a detachment at the banks opposing Craterus,
and moved against Alexander. Porus, finding a fitting spot for battle,
placed his 200 war elephants in front of his infantry and had chariots
and cavalry protecting their flanks and waited for the Macedonians.
Alexander arrived and deployed his phalanx. The Companion Cavalry and
Dahae (mounted archers), with the exception of two units which were
hidden behind the infantry on the left flank, which were both under
Alexander's direct command, were placed on the right wing. A small
Macedonian cavalry detachment flanked further right, protecting the
river's edge and threatening Porus' left flank. Throughout this time,
the Macedonian infantry had been slowly creepy up on the Indian army.
Porus, seeing the Macedonian cavalry few in number, which actually
wasn't the case, ordered his cavalry on his right wing to move to the
left wing, then sent the whole cavalry force to oppose the Macedonian
cavalry. During the attack, Alexander called upon the cavalry
detachment that was locationed on the extreme right flank to attack the
rear of the cavalry. The Macedonian cavalry hiding behind the
infantry, charged and attacked the right flank of the cavalry. Porus'
main infantry army was ordered to move against the Macedonian phalanx.
The bowmen and javelin throwers attempted to strike at the elephants,
but overall, proved futile. The war elephants crashed into the
phalanx, penetrating with relatively ease. Just as the infantry battle
was beginning, the Indian cavalry had had enough. The Indian cavalry
was routed. The Macedonian turned on the exposed left flank of the
Indian infantry formation and its rear. Though the Macedonian phalanx
had been broken, the Indian infantry could not capitalize on the
situation due to the immediate danger of the cavalry attack. Some
time later (hours later?), Craterus had crossed the river and assisted
in the fighting. Casualites on both sides were high (Macedonian cavalry casualties were light). King Porus was wounded and captured. Over 100 war elephants killed 80 war elephants captured.
~ SEE ALEXANDER'S PORTFOLIO TO VIEW THE ISSUS BATTLE MAP ~
Became the cavalry commander. Participated at the siege of Sangala. Command of one of the armies during the small campaigns against the Mallians and Oxydracans. During
the journey return to Babylon, it is not known if Perdiccas went with
Craterus across the Bolan Pass or with Nearchus who used a navy to
return home or with Alexander in the near-death march through the
Gedrosian desert. Upon orders by Alexander, marries a daughter of Atropates, the satrap of Media. When
Craterus was sent away to bring back 12,000 warriors from Greece and
Hephaestion suddenly died, Percdiccas became the highest ranking
officer for Alexander. Appointed successor as commander of the Companion Cavalry and chiliarch (vizier). 324 B.C. NOTE: A position held by Hephaestion until his death. Alexander dies of illness. June 11, 323 B.C. NOTE:
Alexander gave his ring to Perdiccas, saying the empire belongs to
'kratistoi', which means 'to the strongest'. But also could mean 'to
Craterus'. After Alexander's death, agreements were made with his political rival, Meleager, NOTE:
The agreement was that Philip Arridaeus of Macedon, an epileptic
illegitimate son of Philip II, and the unborn child of Roxana,
Alexander's wife become joint kings. Became regent of Alexander's empire. NOTE: Alexander' second wife, Statira was murdered. Appointed his most reliable generals as satraps. Cancelled Alexander's last plan of a naval expedition against the Maka and into Arabia. Instead, focused on consolidating his power, had Meleager arrested and murdered. NOTE: Supposively in the name of the two kings. Subdue Cappadocia. 323-322 B.C. NOTE:
Had ordered Antigonus to assist in this campaign. Eventhough Alexander
marched through this province, Ariarathes, the last Persian satrap made
a kingdom of his own here. Antigonus refuses, who flees when he is summoned to stand trial for disobedience. NOTE: Antigonus joins Antipater's court. Appoints Eumenes as satrap in Antigonus' place. Breaks off his engagement with Antipater's daughter, Nicaea. NOTE: Alexander's monther, Olympias, offers up Alexander's sister, Cleopatria for marriage. Marries Cleopatria; making Perdiccas a member of the Macedonian royal family. NOTE: Perdiccas could easily claim the crown now as Philip Arridaeus was an illegitimate son and Alexander's baby was a 'half-breed'. NOTE: Because of this, Antipater, Craterus, and Ptolemy secretly conspire against Perdiccas. 322 B.C. Ptolemy provokes Perdiccas by stealing the body of Alexander and sending it to Egypt. NOTE:
Alexander's body was being sent to Aegae in Macedonia. When it arrived
in Damascus, Ptolemy convinced the convoy leader that Alexander wanted
to be buried in the tempe of Zeus Ammon.
First War of the Diadochi 322-320 B.C. Send Eumenes to war against Antipater and Craterus in Asia Minor. NOTE:
Against his advisors, the inexperienced Eumenes fights and defeats the
veteran Craterus near Hellespont. Craterus was killed in battle. With king Philip Arridaeus, marches on Egypt against Ptolemy. 320 B.C. Crosses the Sinai desert and reaches Pelusium, near the Nile river. Ptolemy prevents Perdiccas from crossing the Nile. Marches north into the Delta. The attempt to cross there fails miserable. Outraged by the campaign and the harsh discipline, the soldiers mutiny. Seeing advise from his generals, Perdiccas is murdered by his them; Peithon, Selecus, and Antigenes. May or June 320 B.C. NOTE: The troops lost morale due to the failure of the campaign and exhausted.
Parmenion (circa 400 - 330 B.C.) ===================================== Macedonian general Son of Philotas, an Upper Macedonian nobleman Served under king Philip II. 360 - 336 B.C. NOTE: Most of his early achievements, if any, were not recorded. Crushed the Illyrians in a massive. 356 B.C. Destroyed Halos, an important town in southern Thessaly. 346 B.C. Appointed to conclude peace with Athens. With Attalus, Amyntas Andromenes, and 10,000 troops, sent by Philip II to liberate Greek towns on the coast of Asia Minor. 336 B.C. NOTE: By this time, the Persian king, Artaxerxes IV Arses, was murdered. He was succeeded by his relative, Darius III Codomannus. The invasion causes the Greek towns in Asia to revolt. Suffered a serious defeat by ther Persian mercenary, Memnon of Rhodes, at Magnesia. NOTE: Though pushed back by Memnon, he managed to keep the army in Asia Minor. Alexander recognized as king of Macedonia. October 336 B.C. Attalus, Parmenion's relative and co-commander of the expedition into Asia Minor, is put to death due to political intrigue. NOTE: Somewhat intersting, though Attalus was related to Parmenion who was still in control of the army, Alexander almost dared the betrayal by having Attalus killed and giving Parmenion the capability to turn against him. NOTE: Alexander did put members of his family in key positions in the Macedonian army. Most noteably, Philotas, Parmenion's oldest son, was the commander of the Companion Cavalry. Parmenion given the title, second-in-command, of the Macedonian Army. NOTE: He already received this title from Philip II. However, Alexander displays his trust to Parmenion by keeping him in this position when he easily could not have. King Alexander joined Parmenion in Asia Minor with reinforcements. May 334 B.C. The Persian satraps, Spithridates and Mithridates, assembled an army near Dascylium. With Alexander, moved against the Persian army.
GRANICUS RIVER May, 334 B.C. ====================================== Alexander (35,000) vs. Persian satraps Spithridates/Mithridates (38,000) After crossing the Hellespont, the Macedonian army marched on the road to Dascylium, the capital of Satrapy of Phrygia. The Persian army under Spirthridates and Mithridates wait for the Macedonians on the banks of the Granicus River. The Macedonian scouts spotted the Persian army. Memnon of Rhodes, captain of the 8,000 Greek mercenaries who left Greece to fight for the Persians, suggested a scorched-earth policy. This suggestion is rejected by the satraps. The Persians, according to Arrian, the Greek historian, placed their cavalry in front of their infantry and drew up on the east bank of the river. The Macedonians had their heavy Phalanxes in the middle and cavalry protecting their flanks. The uneveness of the eastern bank held by the Persians caused many of the Macedonians great concern. It is not known if Alexander attacked immediately, or if he had crossed the river upstream and attacked at dawn (as suggested by Alexander's second-in-command, Parmenion). Alexander ordered Nicanor's cavalry and one battalion of hypaspists to feint attack the Persian left flank. The Persians reinforced their flank and the Macedonians feinted. With the feint objective met, Alexander and the Companion cavalry formed a wedge and charged into the weakened Persian center line. The Macedonian assault was so swift, perhaps because of the effective use of the river's current, and forceful that it pushed the Persians from the shore, alienating the calvary from the slow approaching phalanx. This allowed the Persians to countercharge. During this charge, many noteable Persian nobles were killed. Alexander was also stunned by an axe-blow but was saved by a man named Clitus the Black. The Macedonian cavalry, controlling the center of the battlefield, turned left and rolled up the Persian cavalry which had been engaged with the Macedonian left in a general engagement. A gaping hole in the center of the battlefield allowed the Macedonian phalanx to rush towards the Persian infantry in the rear. The Persian flanks broke and the infantry was routed. Many of the infantry were killed during the chase. The Greek mercenaries, sitting on top of the hill never engaging the Macedonians, were surrounded. Refusing to accept their surrender, Alexander defeats the Greek 'traitors'. 4,000 Persians killed (the majority killed during the rout) 2,000 Persians captured Spithridates was killed. 115 Macedonians killed. NOTE: Of the estimated 8,000 Greeks that fought for the Persians, 2,000 were captured and sent to Macedonian mines. Two years later, when asked for their release from citizens from various Greek city-states, including Athens, he freed them. NOTE: Memnon did not participate in this battle.
~SEE ALEXANDER III's PORTFOLIO TO VIEW MAP~
Captured Dascylium, the capital of Hellespontine Phrygia. NOTE: Sources say it fell without a struggle. Archaelogical evidence contradicts this. Captured Magnesia and Traaleis. NOTE: While Parmenion was doing this, Alexander captured Sardes, Ephesus, Miletus, and Halicarnassus. During the winter, Parmenion invaded central Turkey, drove out the Persian troosp. NOTE: Alexander moved through Lycia while Parmenion was doing this. Caught up with Alexander at Gordium, the captial of Phrygia. 333 B.C. With Alexander, moved east to Cilicia. Captured Tarsus without Alexander. NOTE: Alexander fell ill at this time. Interesting enough, Parmenion blamed Alexander's physician (he was innocent of the charge). Alexander ignored Parmenion's advise. Occupied the Assyrian gates while Alexander was still in Cilicia. Received word that Darius' large army was at Sochi, two days away from his position. Alexander lost Darius; Parmenion convinced Alexander to remain where he is and not advance into the Assyrian plains. The Persians capture the empty camp near Issus, killing the sick and wounded left behind by Alexander. Hearing word of Darius behind him, Alexander moves towards Issus. Darius, either chasing Alexander or thinking the Macedonian army retreated, moves south when his scouts locate the Macedonian army, which had already passed the Pillar of Yunus. Darius moves from Issus and both armies find each other at the Pinarus river.
ISSUS 333 B.C. ========================= Alexander (40,000) vs. Darius III (91,000) Darrius III, with such a large force (20,000 Greek mercenaries, 60,000 Persian infantry, 11,000 Persian cavalry) and unable to supply it properly, was forced instigate the conflict. However, the Macedonian supply line is cut as well. Darius III positioned his army along the Pinarus river as Alexander approached. The Macedonian right flank was held by Alexander's Companion Cavalry and his Thessalian allied cavalry on the left with Parmenion in command of the phalanx. The Persian heavy cavalry is concentrated on the coast, their right flank, more Greek mercenaries. The Cardaces, Persian infantry, are spread along the river and foothills, wrapping around the other bank to expose Alexander's flank. Darius is located in the middle, with his best troops, the Greek mercenaries and his royal cavalry guard. Darius later sent parts of his cavalry along the possible exposed flank. Alexander reacts by two small detachments (Agrians and light cavalry) to protect the right flank and a greater number of cavalry to protect the left wing, which was positioned against the heavy Persian cavalry. The Persian cavalry cross the river and attack the Thessalian cavalry and Parmenion's horsemen. By late afternoon, Alexander, leading the Hypaspists on foot, charge against across the river and quickly overrun the surprisingly disorganized Cardaces' units. The Persian attack managed to push the cavalry back and penetrate the phalanx from the side. The Greek mercenaries put up stiff resistance against the Macedonians' central phalanx' attack. With the situation deteriotating on the Macedonian's left flank, the Greek mercenaries started to push the Macedonians back across the river. Despite what appeared to be the advantage, the Persian left wing collapsed and was turned. The Macedonians did not pursue, they turned on the flank of the Greek mercenaries. Mounting a horse, Alexander leads his Companion Cavalry against Darius. Viewing the situation, Darius immediately flees. With the king running off the field, the Persians abandon all efforts and are routed. Macedonian cavalry mercilessly pursue the Persians until night approaches. Despite the rout, the Greeks mercenaries retired in good order. Darius managed to escape. NOTE: In view of it all, Alexander used a sophisticated version of the oblique formation. Permenion was in charge of holding the Perisans right flank, while Alexander moved against the Persian left flank and, then, center. Darius fled to Euphrates, leaving his family behind (wife, children, and mother) and much of his kingdom's treasure. NOTE: Sisygambis, Darius' mother, disowned him and adopted Alexander. NOTE: First defeat Darius III experienced. 10,000 Persians are killed on the battlefield. Much more are killed during the rout. 450 Macedonians killed (Alexander was wounded).
~SEE ALEXANDER III's PORTFOLIO TO VIEW MAP~
NOTE: Rushed to Damascus and seized Darius' treasure. After Issus, diplomatic exchanges took place, Parmenion recommended Alexander to accept Darius' off of 'all countries west of the Euphrates'; Alexander declined. Important command during the year 332 B.C.
Siege of TYRE 332 B.C. ========================= Alexander (23,000) vs. unknown (numbers not found) Built on an island a half mile off shore. the fortified city of Tyre poised as a threat to Alexander's plan of eliminating all Persian ports, thus ending a Persian invasion into Greece. Built a mole across the channel, but parts of it was destroyed by the Phoenician galleys. Consolidated his recent conquered assets (Sidon, Byblod, and Aradas) and with his other new allies (Rhodes and Cyprus) used their fleet to check the Tyrian galleys. Once the mole was completed, they immediately began to attempt to breach the Tyre defenses, which took considerable time. Alexander, leading the final storm of Tyre, successfully captured Tyre. 8,000 Tyrians killed. 30,000 Tyrians sold into slavery. NOTE: What took king Nebuchadnezzar II 13 years to fail to do, Alexander did in 7 months. NOTE: Darius III opened negotiations with Alexander, which was quickly turned down.
Siege of GAZA 332 B.C. ========================= Alexander (numbers not found) vs. Batis (numbers not found) While the siege was taking place, Alexander moved further along the coast and accepted more cities. Gaza, under Batis, refused to surrender. The heavily-fortified fort protecting Gaza laid on a hill. After Tyre, Alexander build ramps on the side of the hill. Gaza maintained it resistance for two months before it was finally taken. All the men were killed and the women and children were sold into slavery. Alexander was injured during the siege. NOTE: Immitating Achilles, Alexander dragged the body of Batis behind a chariot around the walls of Gaza.
Penetrated Mesopotamia and Assyria. Mazaeus, assigned to the new Persian army by Darius, marched up the Tigris to oppose him.
GAUGAMELA October 1, 331 B.C. ================================ Alexander (47,000) vs. Darius III (110,000) While Alexander was conquering the Mediterranean coast, Darius built a huge, but mostly inexperienced, army. When the Macedonian army arrived at the site of battle chosen by Darius, Alexander immediately set up camp. That night, Darius believed Alexander would attack, Darius had most of his men stay up the night in anticipation of the attack. Darius ordered the field to be smoothed out and cleared to enhance the performance of the 200 chariots (there were also 15 war elephants on play, however, they did not appear to be a factor in the battle). In the middle of the Persian army position was the elite infantry. On the right flank was the Carian cavalry, Greek mercenaries and Persian horse guards. Left flank was covered with mostly cavalry, under command of Bessus, from various regions and Mardian archers. Darius positioned himself with his infantry. Between the right flank and infantry, the Persian foot guards (Called the Immortals by the Greeks), Indian cavalry and Mardian archers stood guard. With yet more troops to place on the field, in front of the main army were Bactrian chariots. More varied cavalry were dispersed along the right flank, front, and left flank of the main army. This group of cavalry, althought widely spread out, was under the command of a single cavalry commander, Mazaeus. Macedonians, dispersed into two specific groups. Alexander rode with the Companion cavalry, Paionian, and the Macedonian light cavalry. The veteran mercenary cavalry was located on the right flank as well. The left flank, under command of Parmenion, consisted of Thessalian, Greek mercenary, and Thracian cavalry. The Agrians and Macedonian archers were stationed next to the phalanx, which was in a double-line formation. Alexander wanted Parmenion to hold the line while he struck at the heart of the Persian army. Combat was initiated by Darius, hurling his chariots at the Macedonian army. The chariots were easily stopped by the Agrianians, moved aside and persuading the horses to enter into a type of 'mousetrap'. Once the chariots were halted, the charioteers were killed. The Macedonian rearguard started to cover the Macedonian flanks as the Persians continued to curl up the Macedonian line. With the lines covered by the rearguard, Darius sent in more troops to circumvent the flank. This action caused a gap between Bessus's left and Darius' center. Alexander sent his last available cavalry reserves to protect the flanks. Alexander disengaged his Companions. Formed a cavalry wedge and charged into the main Persian line. The cavalry wedge crashed into the weakened Persian center, dismantling the royal elite troops and Greek mercenaries. Bessus, instead of supporting the defense of the king, pulled away from the attack. Darius, in fear of his life, broke. Receiving desperate messages from Parmenion, Alexander ended all thoughts of chasing Darius and aided the left flank, which had been violently pushed further to the left. This caused a huge gap between the Parmenion and the phalanx. The Persian and Indian cavalry units pored into that gap, however, instead of attacking the vulnerable flank and rear of the Phalanx or Parmenion, the went into the Macedonian camp and started looting it. NOTE: They attempted to rescue the Queen Mother Sisygambis, but she refused to go with them. The last available Macedonian reserves drove off the camp invaders, but received heavy casualties. In the meantime, Mazaeus attempted to disengage his force, however the disengagement turned into a chaotic rout as the Thessalian cavalry continued to pursue. Alexander pursued, but failed to capture, Darius, who fled to Ecbatana. Parmenion looted the Persian baggage train. 4,000 talents captured King's personal chariot and bow. NOTE: Darius maintained a small force as well as the Bessus' Bactrian cavalry, remnants of the Royal Guard and 2,000 Greek mercenaries. Darius planned to head East to raise another army and dispatched letters calling all Eastern satrapies to remain loyal. Casualties are too exaggerated to list. Safe to say high casualties among the Persians; less so for the Macedonians.
~SEE ALEXANDER III's PORTFOLIO TO VIEW MAP~
With Alexander, accepted the surrender of Babylonia. While Alexander used a small force to capture the Persian gate, Parmenion entered the plain of Persepolis from the south. 330 B.C. While Alexander chased king Darius, Parmenion conquered Ecbatana, another Persian capital. Pacified the mountain country of the Cadusians. Unaware that his son, Philotas, was accused of treason and executed. December 330 B.C. In Ecbatana, a courier arrived with a message to Atropates, the commander of the reinforcements, to kill the old general whom the letter accused him of treason. Parmenion was killed for a reason he did not know.
Famous exchange between Parmenion and Alexander about Darius' offer. ---------------------------------------------------- "I would accept it," said Parmenion after reading the proposal, "if I were Alexander." "So would I," replied Alexander, "if I were Parmenion."
Great comment from wikipedia ------------------------------------ "Parmenion was Philip II's most trusted general, and a major influence in the formation of the tough, disciplined and professional Macedonian army whose tactics would dominate land warfare for the succeeding centuries, arguably until the Marian Reforms of the Roman army in 107 BC."
NOTE: All of these maps were made byMaciek.
These maps are outstanding and are the best I have seen of any of the
battles. His work is far superior than even those done by the Department of
History, United States Military Academy.
Phase V: Alexander quickly ends his pursuit of Darius. The last phase of the battle, he supports the wings of the Macedonian army.
Campaigning leading up to the battle of Hydaspes: Having outmanuevered king Porus by successfully crossed the Hydaspes River during troublesome weather, Alexander forced the king to move against him and no block Cateros, who laid on the other side of the Hydaspes River.
Phase I: The Macedonian phalanx slowly moved towards the Indians. During this time, the Macedonian cavalry seperated into three parts. One group went behind the cover of the phalanx, another went to the extreme right of the Indian left flank and the third group marched along with the phalanx. King Porus moves his cavalry from the right wing to the left to compensate for what the Macedonians had against their left wing.
Phase II: Thinking he had the advantage numerically against the Macedonian cavalry, he ordered his cavalry to charge against the Macedonian cavalry. As contact was made, the most extreme located cavalry moved into a position to attack the left flanks of the Indian cavalry. In the meantime, the other group moved more towards the center and waited a bit longer.
Phase III: King Porus moved the war elephants against the Macedonian phalanx. The last of the Macedonian cavalry joined combat against the right flank of the Indian wing. Combat intensified.
Phase IV: The Indian cavalry is overwhelmed and is routed. The Macedonian cavalry begins to roll up the left flank of the Indian infantry.
NOTE: With the exception of the map of the 'campaign before the battle of Issus', all of these maps were made byMaciek.
These maps are outstanding and are the best I have seen of any of the
battles. His work is far superior than even those done by the Department of
History, United States Military Academy.
Phase I: The right front and flank of the Macedonian army (Alexander) shifted further to the right. Darius, who had prepared obstacles on the field, began to disperse his chariots against the Macedonians.
Phase II: Darius' chariot charge was easily stopped by the Macedonians, the drivers were pulled from the chariots and killed. The cavalry wings of the Persians attempted to outflank the Macedonians. Part of the Macedonian right wing continued to pull away from the center.
Phase III: A gap emerges from the center of the Macedonian lines. Parts of the Persian force exploits it, however, they target the supply wagon in the rear instead of attacking the rear of the Macedonian phalanx. Meanwhile the Macedonian wings manage to hole off the Persians while Alexander hit the gap in the Persian lines.
Phase IV: The Macedonian rear phalanx attempts to recover the lost baggage train. Meanwhile, Darius, viewing the desperate situation he and his army is in, runs away from the battle. The wings of the Macedonian army continue to hold off the Persian forces.
NOTE: With the exception of the map of the 'campaign before the battle of Issus', all of these maps were made byMaciek.
These maps are outstanding and are the best I have seen of any of the
battles. His work is far superior than even those done by the Department of
History, United States Military Academy.
Phase I: Darius III threatens Alexander's right flank by sending parts of his cavalry on the hill side. He overloaded the rest of his cavalry along the Gulf of Issus, outnumbering the Macedonian/Thessalian cavalry on the Macedonian left wing.
Phase II: Darius sends his cavalry (Persian) on the right wing against Parmenion (some sources stat Alexander attacked first). The Companions (Alexander) quickly moves against Darius' left wing and easily pushes the Cardace infantry aside.
Phase III: The Companions (Alexander) continue to push the Persian left wing, while Persian cavalry make headway through the Macedonian left wing as the Greek mercenaries push the Macedonian phalanx across the river.
Phase IV: The Persian left wing is scattered, the Companions (Alexander) continue to roll up towards the center. Meanwhile the Persian cavalry is pushing the Macedonian cavalry back, exposing Parmenion's phalanx's left flank.
Phase V: Upon viewing the situation, Darius desperately retreats for the sake of his life. The Persian right, though making headway through the Macedonians, loses cohersion and is forced to retreat in chaos.
Rider: "Whom is next? Ptolemaios I Soter? Seleukos I Nikatar? Lysimachos? Narses? Or you'll turn to Rome?" ================================ Rider, I will probably fall back on history a little bit and do a portfolio on Pyrrhus of Epirus and make the transition to Rome. However, I am still pick the commanders after Alexander's empire and work on the Eastern commanders as they come about.
However, I still need to insert more maps. I have exceeded the amount of data available for a post. My next post will be with maps with brief descriptions (as above).
Below is a continuation of the maps from Alexander's campaign:
NOTE: With the exception of the map of the 'campaign before the battle of Issus', all of these maps were made byMaciek.
These maps are outstanding and are the best I have seen of any of the
battles. His work is far superior than even those done by the Department of
History, United States Military Academy. Phase I: Alexander ordered Nicanor's cavalry (Amyntas) and hypaspists units to feint attack the Persian left flank.
Phase II: The Companion Cavalry (Alexander) form a wedge and charge the weakened Persian center. The movement of the phalanx is slowed by the river.
Phase III: A general engagement occurs. The Persian center weakens and retreats. The Macedonian cavalry (Alexander) attacks the exposed flank of the Persian right wing. Persian cohersion collapses.
Alexander III, [the Great] (336 B.C. 323 B.C.) Also known as; Alexander the Great Megas Alexandros Zoroastrian [Middle Persian] Eskandar [Persian] Dhul-Qarnayn [Middle Eastern traditions] al-Iskandar al-Kabeer [Arabic] Dul-Qarnayim [Hebrew] Tre-Qarnayia [Aramaic] Sikandar [Urdu and Hindi]
Macedonian king Born in Pella, capital of Macedonia. Son of Philip II [q.v.] of Macedon and his fourth wife, Olympias, princess of Epirus. NOTE: Olympias, according to Plutarch, claims Alexander was fathered by the god, Zeus. Became the pupil of Aristotle when he turned 13 years old. At the age of 16, was regent of Macedonia when Philip II attacked Byzantium. 340 B.C. Led an assault and subjugated the Maedi, a rebellious Thracian tribe. NOTE: Renamed their capital, Alexandropolis. Left Macedonia with his mother and sister to Epirus after an embarrassing incident. 339 B.C. NOTE:
At the wedding banquet of Philip II and Cleopatra, his fifth wife,
Cleopatra's uncle, Attalus gave a toast that indirectly questioned the
legitimacy of Alexander as heir to the throne. Alexander assaulted
Attalus. When Philip II, attempting to stop Alexander, fell over a
table in a complete state of drunkeness. Olympias was Epirus;
Celopatra was Macedonian. Alexander came back, but his mother remained behind.
CHAERONEA August 338 ============================================= Philip II (34,000) vs.Chares of Athens, Theagenes of Thebes (30,000) Both
sides were eager for battle, but Philip II was much more experience
than Chares [Athens], Lysicles [Athens] or Theagenes [Theban]
combined. Deployed at dawn, the Macedonians had Philip II commanding
the right wing and 18-year-old Alexander, accompanied by the best
Macedonian commanders, the left (the Companion Cavalry was positioned
at the rear of the army). The Greek army deployed their army based on
nationality (Athenian soldiers holding the left wing, Theban soldier;
the right with the extreme right protected by the Sacred Band). When
the battle started, it was hotly contested. For reasons not known to
the Greeks, but part of Philip's army began to withdraw from the
fighting. This inspired the Athenians that they were about to be
victorious. The Athenian side of the Greek army moved out of formation
and bit the trap. In the meantime, Alexander broke the Theban lines.
When this occurred, Philip stopped the feint retreat and vigorously
attacked the Athenians. The Athenians were routed. Theban warriors
were soon crushed thereafter. 6,000 Athenians killed 2,000 Athenians captured Of the 300-strong Sacred Band, 254 were killed (the rest were captured or wounded) NOTE: He erected a memorial of a marble lion to the Sacred Band of Thebes for their bravery that still stands today. NOTE:
The ancient Roman and Greek historians, consider the battle of
Chaeronea, on August 2nd, 338 BC as an end to Greek liberty and
history. Greece will not regain its freedom from foreign occupation
until early 19th century AD.
Acted as the Macedonian ambassador to Athens. Alexander's father, Philip II, is assassinated at Cleopatra's wedding, his daughter, to king Alexander of Epirus. 336 B.C. The Macedonian army declares Alexander king of Macedonia. NOTE: he is 20-years old. Alexander purged all possible pretenders of the Macedonian throne. NOTE: Lyncestis, Philip's nephew, Philip's wife, Cleopatra and her infant and Attalus. Anxious for their independence, Athens and Thebes become restless. Alexander swiftly marches to Thebes, whom quickly submitted. The
assembled Greeks at Isthmus of Corinth, except for the Greeks from
Sparta, elect Alexander as the new commander against Persia. Death of Philip II, inspired the Thracians to revolt. To secure the Danube, engaged and decisively defeated the Thracians. 335 B.C. Crossed the Danube to subjugate the Getae and Celtic tribes The Illyrians revolts soon after. Alexander crushes the uprising in southern Illyria in less than a week. NOTE: With Coenus and Perdiccas, led a successful night attack against the Illyrian camp. Rumors spread that Alexander was killed in southern Illyria. Thebans revolts and called upon Athens to join. NOTE: Darius III had been instrumental in this Greek uprising. The Illyrians are defeated. Alexander immediately marches to Greece. NOTE: 240 miles in 13 days (averaging over 18 miles a day in rough terrain). Orders Perdiccas to attack the gates of Thebans. Theban is erased off the surface of the Earth with great bloodshed. NOTE:
City of Thebans is razed. Its territory is divided among other
Boeotian cities. The citizens were sold into slavery [Priests and
leaders of the pro-Macedonian party, and Pindar's decendants were
spared]. Only Pindar's house remained untouched. 6,000 men Thracians killed 30,000 inhabitants were sold into slavery. Athens quickly submitted. NOTE: All the anti-Macedonian party members were exiled (like Demosthenes). Crossed the Hellespont from Sestos to Abydos with an army of 40,000 troops. 334 B.C. Realizing the strength of the Persian fleet, his first priority was to secure to coast of the Aegean Sea. Left Antipather with 10,000 men in Greece.
GRANICUS RIVER May, 334 B.C. ====================================== Alexander (35,000) vs. Persian satraps Spithridates/Mithridates (38,000) After
crossing the Hellespont, the Macedonian army marched on the road to
Dascylium, the capital of Satrapy of Phrygia. The Persian army under
Spirthridates and Mithridates wait for the Macedonians on the banks of
the Granicus River. The Macedonian scouts spotted the Persian army.
Memnon of Rhodes, captain of the 8,000 Greek mercenaries who left
Greece to fight for the Persians, suggested a scorched-earth policy.
This suggestion is rejected by the satraps. The Persians, according to
Arrian, the Greek historian, placed their cavalry in front of their
infantry and drew up on the east bank of the river. The Macedonians
had their heavy Phalanxes in the middle and cavalry protecting their
flanks. The uneveness of the eastern bank held by the Persians caused
many of the Macedonians great concern. It is not known if Alexander
attacked immediately, or if he had crossed the river upstream and
attacked at dawn (as suggested by Alexander's second-in-command,
Parmenion). Alexander ordered Nicanor's cavalry and one battalion of
hypaspists to feint attack the Persian left flank. The Persians
reinforced their flank and the Macedonians feinted. With the feint
objective met, Alexander and the Companion cavalry formed a wedge and
charged into the weakened Persian center line. The Macedonian assault
was so swift, perhaps because of the effective use of the river's
current, and forceful that it pushed the Persians from the shore,
alienating the calvary from the slow approaching phalanx. This allowed
the Persians to countercharge. During this charge, many noteable
Persian nobles were killed. Alexander was also stunned by an axe-blow
but was saved by a man named Clitus the Black. The Macedonian cavalry,
controlling the center of the battlefield, turned left and rolled up
the Persian cavalry which had been engaged with the Macedonian left in
a general engagement. A gaping hole in the center of the battlefield
allowed the Macedonian phalanx to rush towards the Persian infantry in
the rear. The Persian flanks broke and the infantry was routed. Many
of the infantry were killed during the chase. The Greek mercenaries,
sitting on top of the hill never engaging the Macedonians, were
surrounded. Refusing to accept their surrender, Alexander defeats the
Greek 'traitors'. 4,000 Persians killed (the majority killed during the rout) 2,000 Persians captured Spithridates was killed. 115 Macedonians killed. NOTE:
Of the estimated 8,000 Greeks that fought for the Persians, 2,000 were
captured and sent to Macedonian mines. Two years later, when asked for
their release from citizens from various Greek city-states, including
Athens, he freed them. NOTE: Memnon did not participate in this battle.
After a brief siege, captured Miletus. Accepts the surrender of Sardis, the Persian provincial capital. NOTE: Treasury was taken. Marches down to the Ionian coast. Memnon, given direct military control by Darius, retreated to Halikarnassos and fortified it. Victorious at the siege of Halicarnassus. NOTE:
This forced Memnon and Orontobates, the Persian satrap of Caria, to
escape by sea. Memnon establishes other seaports in the attempt to
initiate an naval attack on Greece. However, he dies due to disease
before he was able to finish. His successor did not pursue his goal. Gave rulership of Caria to Ada, who was the previous ruler of Caria before being deposed. Marched into Lycia then to Pamphylia, thus controlling the coastal cities. 333 B.C. Moved inland after no major ports were located along the coast. At Gordium, the capital of Phrygia, Alexander 'undid' the tangled knot, a feat only that for the future 'king of Asia'. NOTE: Some stories say he actually untied it, others say he simply hacked it apart with his sword. Arsames, the Persian Satrap stripped the surrounding territory and retired, leaving a small garrison at the Cilician Gate. The important Cilician Gate was taken with out a fight after the garrison fled. Subdued the surrounding highlands. After a bath, became seriously sick for several weeks. Hearing rumors of Darius massing a large army in Babylon, sends Parmenion to occupy the coast around Issus. Reports arrived indicating, correctly, that the Persian army had advanced on a town called Sochi in Syria. Alexander
and Darius waited for each other, the Macedonian king wanted to fight
the Persian army close to the Assyrian Gate, the Persian king; in the
open plains of Sochi. Darius became impatient and marched north around the mountains, crossing the Amanian Gate in good time. NOTE:
Events outside the campaign leading up to Issus consisted of the
Persian fleet re-taking islands and city-ports. However, when the
final call for Greek mercenaries to join Darius' army, the success of
the naval campaign dwindled. Alexander received news that the naval
assault at Halicarnassus by Orontobates was thwarted by the smaller
Macedonian navy. With the good news, Alexander consolidated his forces at Issus and moved south through the Pillar of Yunus. Bad weather dampened spirits in the Macedonian army. Alexander lost Darius; Parmenion convinced Alexander to remain where he is and not advance into the Assyrian plains. The Persians capture the empty camp near Issus, killing the sick and wounded left behind by Alexander. Hearing word of Darius behind him, Alexander moves towards Issus. Darius,
either chasing Alexander or thinking the Macedonian army retreated,
moves south when his scouts locate the Macedonian army, which had
already passed the Pillar of Yunus. Darius moves from Issus and both armies find each other at the Pinarus river.
ISSUS 333 B.C. ========================= Alexander (40,000) vs. Darius III (91,000) Darrius
III, with such a large force (20,000 Greek mercenaries, 60,000 Persian
infantry, 11,000 Persian cavalry) and unable to supply it properly, was
forced instigate the conflict. However, the Macedonian supply line is
cut as well. Darius III positioned his army along the Pinarus river as
Alexander approached. The Macedonian right flank was held by
Alexander's Companion Cavalry and his Thessalian allied cavalry on the
left with Parmenion in command of the phalanx. The Persian heavy
cavalry is concentrated on the coast, their right flank, more Greek
mercenaries. The Cardaces, Persian infantry, are spread along the
river and foothills, wrapping around the other bank to expose
Alexander's flank. Darius is located in the middle, with his best
troops, the Greek mercenaries and his royal cavalry guard. Darius
later sent parts of his cavalry along the possible exposed flank.
Alexander reacts by two small detachments (Agrians and light cavalry)
to protect the right flank and a greater number of cavalry to protect
the left wing, which was positioned against the heavy Persian cavalry.
The Persian cavalry cross the river and attack the Thessalian cavalry
and Parmenion's horsemen. By late afternoon, Alexander, leading the
Hypaspists on foot, charge against across the river and quickly overrun
the surprisingly disorganized Cardaces' units. The Persian attack
managed to push the cavalry back and penetrate the phalanx from the
side. The Greek mercenaries put up stiff resistance against the
Macedonians' central phalanx' attack. With the situation deteriotating
on the Macedonian's left flank, the Greek mercenaries started to push
the Macedonians back across the river. Despite what appeared to be the
advantage, the Persian left wing collapsed and was turned. The
Macedonians did not pursue, they turned on the flank of the Greek
mercenaries. Mounting a horse, Alexander leads his Companion Cavalry
against Darius. Viewing the situation, Darius immediately flees. With
the king running off the field, the Persians abandon all efforts and
are routed. Macedonian cavalry mercilessly pursue the Persians until
night approaches. Despite the rout, the Greeks mercenaries retired in
good order. Darius managed to escape. NOTE: In view of it
all, Alexander used a sophisticated version of the oblique formation.
Permenion was in charge of holding the Perisans right flank, while
Alexander moved against the Persian left flank and, then, center.
Darius fled to Euphrates, leaving his family behind (wife, children,
and mother) and much of his kingdom's treasure. NOTE: Sisygambis, Darius' mother, disowned him and adopted Alexander. NOTE: First defeat Darius III experienced. 10,000 Persians are killed on the battlefield. Much more are killed during the rout. 450 Macedonians killed (Alexander was wounded).
Marched south into Syria and Phoenicia. Marathus and Aradus sided with Alexander with no resistance. NOTE:
About the time the siege of Tyre was taking place, the Persians marched
into Asia Minor, but was defeated by Antigonus, the new satrap of
Greater Phrygia. Captured Byblos and Sidon. Tyre resisted.
SIEGE of TYRE 332 B.C. ========================= Alexander (23,000) vs. unknown (numbers not found) Built
on an island a half mile off shore. the fortified city of Tyre poised
as a threat to Alexander's plan of eliminating all Persian ports, thus
ending a Persian invasion into Greece. Built a mole across the
channel, but parts of it was destroyed by the Phoenician galleys.
Consolidated his recent conquered assets (Sidon, Byblod, and Aradas)
and with his other new allies (Rhodes and Cyprus) used their fleet to
check the Tyrian galleys. Once the mole was completed, they
immediately began to attempt to breach the Tyre defenses, which took
considerable time. Alexander, leading the final storm of Tyre,
successfully captured Tyre. 8,000 Tyrians killed. 30,000 Tyrians sold into slavery. NOTE: What took king Nebuchadnezzar II 13 years to fail to do, Alexander did in 7 months. NOTE: Darius III opened negotiations with Alexander, which was quickly turned down.
SIEGE of GAZA 332 B.C. ========================= Alexander (numbers not found) vs. Batis (numbers not found) While
the siege was taking place, Alexander moved further along the coast and
accepted more cities. Gaza, under Batis, refused to surrender. The
heavily-fortified fort protecting Gaza laid on a hill. After Tyre,
Alexander build ramps on the side of the hill. Gaza maintained it
resistance for two months before it was finally taken. All the men
were killed and the women and children were sold into slavery.
Alexander was injured during the siege. NOTE: Immitating Achilles, Alexander dragged the body of Batis behind a chariot around the walls of Gaza.
Welcomed as a liberator in Egypt. NOTE: Pilgrimage to the great temple and oracle of Amon-Ra. Alexander was recognized as the son of Zeus Ammon. Founded Alexandria in Egypt. NOTE: Which becomes the capital during the Ptolemaic dynasty. Leaving the Mediterranean coast, marched into Assyria. 331 B.C. Returned to Phoenicia, nominated a Macedonian satrap for Syria. Arrived at Thapsacus, on the river Euphrates. Advanced across northern Mesopotamia toward the Tigres. Mazaeus, assigned to the new Persian army by Darius, marched up the Tigris to oppose him.
GAUGAMELA October 1, 331 B.C. ================================ Alexander (47,000) vs. Darius III (110,000) While
Alexander was conquering the Mediterranean coast, Darius built a huge,
but mostly inexperienced, army. When the Macedonian army arrived at
the site of battle chosen by Darius, Alexander immediately set up
camp. That night, Darius believed Alexander would attack, Darius had
most of his men stay up the night in anticipation of the attack.
Darius ordered the field to be smoothed out and cleared to enhance the
performance of the 200 chariots (there were also 15 war elephants on
play, however, they did not appear to be a factor in the battle). In
the middle of the Persian army position was the elite infantry. On the
right flank was the Carian cavalry, Greek mercenaries and Persian horse
guards. Left flank was covered with mostly cavalry, under command of
Bessus, from various regions and Mardian archers. Darius positioned
himself with his infantry. Between the right flank and infantry, the
Persian foot guards (Called the Immortals by the Greeks), Indian
cavalry and Mardian archers stood guard. With yet more troops to place
on the field, in front of the main army were Bactrian chariots. More
varied cavalry were dispersed along the right flank, front, and left
flank of the main army. This group of cavalry, althought widely spread
out, was under the command of a single cavalry commander, Mazaeus.
Macedonians, dispersed into two specific groups. Alexander rode with
the Companion cavalry, Paionian, and the Macedonian light cavalry. The
veteran mercenary cavalry was located on the right flank as well. The
left flank, under command of Parmenion, consisted of Thessalian, Greek
mercenary, and Thracian cavalry. The Agrians and Macedonian archers
were stationed next to the phalanx, which was in a double-line
formation. Alexander wanted Parmenion to hold the line while he struck
at the heart of the Persian army. Combat was initiated by Darius,
hurling his chariots at the Macedonian army. The chariots were easily
stopped by the Agrianians, moved aside and persuading the horses to
enter into a type of 'mousetrap'. Once the chariots were halted, the
charioteers were killed. The Macedonian rearguard started to cover the
Macedonian flanks as the Persians continued to curl up the Macedonian
line. With the lines covered by the rearguard, Darius sent in more
troops to circumvent the flank. This action caused a gap between
Bessus's left and Darius' center. Alexander sent his last available
cavalry reserves to protect the flanks. Alexander disengaged his
Companions. Formed a cavalry wedge and charged into the main Persian
line. The cavalry wedge crashed into the weakened Persian center,
dismantling the royal elite troops and Greek mercenaries. Bessus,
instead of supporting the defense of the king, pulled away from the
attack. Darius, in fear of his life, broke. Receiving desperate
messages from Parmenion, Alexander ended all thoughts of chasing Darius
and aided the left flank, which had been violently pushed further to
the left. This caused a huge gap between the Parmenion and the
phalanx. The Persian and Indian cavalry units pored into that gap,
however, instead of attacking the vulnerable flank and rear of the
Phalanx or Parmenion, the went into the Macedonian camp and started
looting it. NOTE: They attempted to rescue the Queen Mother
Sisygambis, but she refused to go with them. The last available
Macedonian reserves drove off the camp invaders, but received heavy
casualties. In the meantime, Mazaeus attempted to disengage his force,
however the disengagement turned into a chaotic rout as the Thessalian
cavalry continued to pursue. Alexander pursued, but failed to capture,
Darius, who fled to Ecbatana. Parmenion looted the Persian baggage
train. 4,000 talents captured King's personal chariot and bow. NOTE:
Darius maintained a small force as well as the Bessus' Bactrian
cavalry, remnants of the Royal Guard and 2,000 Greek mercenaries.
Darius planned to head East to raise another army and dispatched
letters calling all Eastern satrapies to remain loyal. Casualties are too exaggerated to list. Safe to say high casualties among the Persians; less so for the Macedonians.
Alexander remained in the vicinity until the provinces to the south were secured. Marched to Babylon, following the Tigris. Marched on one of the Achaemenid capitals, Susa. By way of the Royal Road, moved on to Persopolis, another Persian capital. NOTE: Both capitals yielded large amounts of treasure. NOTE: A fire broke out in Persepolis, no evidence revealed if this was revenge for the burning of Athens centuries ago. Darius
was kidnapped and murdered by Bessus and his followers. Bessus
declared himself 'Artaxerxes V' and retreated into Central Asia to
start a guerrilla campaign against Alexander. Alexander releases his Greek allies from service. NOTE: The reason for this was because of a major uprising that had occurred in Greece. Crossed the Zagros Mountains into Media. 330 B.C. Alexander continued to pursue Artaxerxes V, whom was betrayed by his own men. 329 B.C. The satrap of Sogdiana was Alexander's next objective. Then Spitamemes became his next target, who also was betrayed. 328 B.C. NOTE: This three-year campaign took him through Media, Parthia, Aria, Drangiana, Arachosia, Bactria, and Scythia. Captured and refounded Herat and Maracanda. Founded a series of new cities, all named Alexandria. Began to accept other customs into his own, which was strongly disapproved by his fellow Greeks. A plot against his life failed and the events afterward includes a purging of fellow Greeks. NOTE:
Philotas, a Greek officer, was killed because he failed to put light on
the plot. Parmenion, Philotas's father, and head of the army at
Ecbatana, was executed per request of Alexander for fear of a
retaliation for the death sentence of his son. Other minor Greeks and
Macedonians were put on trial and executed. NOTE: A drunken
brawl at Maracanda ended with the death of Alexander's old friend,
Clitus the Black. The man who saved his life at Granicus. A second
assassination plot was revealed, Callisthenes of Olynthus, Alexander's
historian and his pages were accused with the plot (fate of
Callisthenes is unknown). Alexander marries Roxana (Roshanak) and solidifies his relationship with the new Central Asian satrapies. 326 B.C. Alexander invited former satrapies of Gandhara to submit to him. Ambhi, ruler of Taxila, submits. Ashvayanas [Aspasios] and Ashvakayanas [Assakenois] refused. After fierce battles, the Ashvayanas and Ashvakayanas were subdued. With a smaller force, Alexander took a northern route and captured the Aornos fortress. Gave Sisikottos governorship of Aornos. Crossed the Indus
HYDASPES May 326 ================================== Alexander III (54,000) vs. Porus (22,000) With
his new ally, raja Ambhi of Taxila, Alexander arrived on the banks of
the Hydaspes river. Porus wanted to hold Alexander on the wide banks
of the Hydaspes river, which had melted waters from the Himalayas. The
Macedonians marched and countermarched up and down the river for
several days. Coenus, a Macedonian officer, had brought boats that
were used to cross the Indus river. During the night and in the mists
of a storm, Alexander and a small contingent of his army moved away
from the river and through a valley. NOTE: Craterus was given
command at the main base. At dawn and upstream from their main base,
the Macedonians crossed the river. Porus was unaware that Alexander
had crossed the river seventeen miles upstream. Suddenly alerted but
thinking the force that the force that did cross was insignificant,
Porus sent a small cavalry under his son to investiage. The Indian
force was easily repulsed and Porus' son was killed. Hearing the news
of the defeat, Porus left a detachment at the banks opposing Craterus,
and moved against Alexander. Porus, finding a fitting spot for battle,
placed his 200 war elephants in front of his infantry and had chariots
and cavalry protecting their flanks and waited for the Macedonians.
Alexander arrived and deployed his phalanx. The Companion Cavalry and
Dahae (mounted archers), with the exception of two units which were
hidden behind the infantry on the left flank, which were both under
Alexander's direct command, were placed on the right wing. A small
Macedonian cavalry detachment flanked further right, protecting the
river's edge and threatening Porus' left flank. Throughout this time,
the Macedonian infantry had been slowly creepy up on the Indian army.
Porus, seeing the Macedonian cavalry few in number, which actually
wasn't the case, ordered his cavalry on his right wing to move to the
left wing, then sent the whole cavalry force to oppose the Macedonian
cavalry. During the attack, Alexander called upon the cavalry
detachment that was locationed on the extreme right flank to attack the
rear of the cavalry. The Macedonian cavalry hiding behind the
infantry, charged and attacked the right flank of the cavalry. Porus'
main infantry army was ordered to move against the Macedonian phalanx.
The bowmen and javelin throwers attempted to strike at the elephants,
but overall, proved futile. The war elephants crashed into the
phalanx, penetrating with relatively ease. Just as the infantry battle
was beginning, the Indian cavalry had had enough. The Indian cavalry
was routed. The Macedonian turned on the exposed left flank of the
Indian infantry formation and its rear. Though the Macedonian phalanx
had been broken, the Indian infantry could not capitalize on the
situation due to the immediate danger of the cavalry attack. Some
time later (hours later?), Craterus had crossed the river and assisted
in the fighting. Casualites on both sides were high (Macedonian cavalry casualties were light). King Porus was wounded and captured. Over 100 war elephants killed 80 war elephants captured.
Reappointed Porus as governor of the conquered territory. Founded Nicaea and Bucephala (named after his dead horse). Fearing the prospects of facing the powerful Magadha in India and after 9 years of continuous campaigning, the army mutinied. After a meeting with Coenus, Alexander called for the end of the campaign and to return to Babylon. Forced to turn south Conquering his way down the Indus to the Indian Ocean. Sent
a large portion of his army to Carmania (modern southern Iran) with his
general Craterus, and commissioned a fleet to explore the Persian Gulf
shore under his admiral Nearchus. Led the rest of his forces back to Persia by the southern route through the Gedrosia (present day Makran in southern Pakistan). NOTE: This journey, Alexander's army lost three-quarters of his army due to the effects of the desert and supply shortages. Became busy with the organization and administration of his empire. Some of his provincial officals ruled unjustly and were replaced. Another small mutiny occurred in the town of Opis, but it was a misunderstanding and the ringleaders were executed. Alexander became ill and bedridden. 12
days later, Alexander died of either malaria, typhoid fever, or viral
encephalitis at the palace of Nebuchadrezzar II of Babylon. His only son, Alexander IV, was born after Alexanders death. NOTE: Later killed.
FINAL NOTE: After
Alexander's death, the Greeks rebelled again called the Lamian War.
Though briefly successful, they were later crushed and remained under
Macedonian rule for the next 150 years. The empire was divided among
his officers. Perdiccas and meleager were murdered. Antigonus quick
grown in Asia Minor brought about a defeated at Ipsus against multiple
kingdoms. Cassander, Antigonus' son, ruling Macedon, Lysimachus at
Thrace, Seleucus in Mesopotamia and Iran, Ptolemy in Egypt. Seleucus
lost the Indian territory to Chandragupta Maurya. By 270 B.C., three
main parts of the empire remained; Antigonid Empire in Macedon,
Seleucid Empire in Asia, and the Ptolemaic kingdom in Egypt and
Palestine. By 100 B.C., most of the west was absorbed by the Roman
Republic; the Macedonia in 167 B.C. and Greece in 145 B.C. Seleucid
Asia in 65 B.C. and Cleopatra VII, the last descendent of Ptolemy,
committed suicide in 30 B.C.
Philip II telling Alexander in an old tale. [tale name unknown] ============================================ My boy, you must find a kingdom big enough for your ambitions. Macedonia is too small for you.
Alexanders basic tenet. (unsure of exact quote.) ============================================ If
you go along with my rule you will be rewarded with your lives, my
protection and my taxes. If you go against me I will conquer you. If
you betray me you will be utterly destroyed."
Written on 300 bucklers sent to Athens after the battle of Granicus River ============================================ "Alexander
the son of Philip, and the Greeks, except the Lacedaemonians
[Spartans], won these from the barbarians who inhabit Asia."
Arrian@allempires.com of Granicus 06/27/05 ============================================ "I
believe the very nature of how the battle played out sent significant
signals to combatants on both sides. Alexander faced a river
crossing followed by a scramble up the river's bank to meet a
numerically superior enemy who waited at their leisure. The
Macedonians exerted themselves greatly before they were even able to
join the battle. Once the battle began in earnest Alexander
continued to press the issue in spite of his perceived disadvantages.
His daring cavalry charge directly at Darius' position, at great
personal risk, served to panic his opponent and to embolden his own
troops. "Although not as aesthetically appealing as Gaugamela
or as creative as the siege of Tyre, Granicus left no doubt that
Alexander was going to be a force to be reckoned with. His reckless,
hellbent attack and win at Granicus left the Persians reeling and I
believe did them irreparable psychological damage."
Diodorus Siculus ============================================ "In
this year Darius sent money to Memnon and appointed him general of the
whole war. He gathered a force of mercenaries, manned three hundred
ships, and pursued the conflict vigorously... As word came to Greece
that Memnon was about to sail to Euboea with his fleet, the cities of
that island became alarmed, while those Greeks friendly to Persia,
notably Sparta, began to have high hopes in a change in the political
situation. Memnon distributed bribes freely and won many Greek over to
share in Persian hopes, but Fortune nevertheless put an end to is
career. He fell ill and died of a desperate malady, and with his death
Darius' fortunes also collapsed."
Alexander, after viewing Darius tent filled with treasure at Issus. ============================================ So this is what is means to be a king.
Alexander, after Sisygambis prostrated herself at the feet of the taller Hephaestion. ============================================ Dont worry mother, he is Alexander too.
Spartan@allempires.com of Gaugamela 02/23/05 ============================================ "If Alexander had been stopped at Gaugamela, Hellenism may not have had the far reaching effects it did."
Victor Hanson writes of the Ashvayan campaign ============================================ "After
promising the surrounded Assacenis their lives upon capitulation, he
executed all their soldiers who had surrendered. Their strongholds at
Ora and Aornus were also similarly stormed. Garrisons were probably all
slaughtered
Alexander wrote about the Ashvayan and Ashvakayan people to his mother ============================================ "I
am involved in the land of a leonine and brave people, where every foot
of the ground is like a well of steel, confronting my soldier. You have
brought only one son into the world, but everyone in this land can be called an Alexander
JeffF.@history.net 12/06/02 ============================================ Alexanders
key ability was his battlefield sense of the decisive moment. His
well-timed Companion Cavalry charges were the key to most of his
victories (the phalanx, while important, was not decisive). Other
great leaders may have had a similar ability, but many of them were
without the means of acting Alexander faced numerous types of enemies
because of the diversity of the people of the Persian empire and those
on the peripheries (Scythians and Indians). He fought in desert,
mountains, plains, sieges (he fought and won in more varied terrain
than anyone) and defeated his opponents. He defeated the Scythians (a
tremendous achievement) Alexander won a mountain campaign (Bactrians)
another great achievement that distinguished him from Napoleon or
Caesar (no the Twelfth Legion campaign against the Alpine tribe during
the Gallic War was not commanded by Caesar). A little known fact was
that he was a superb logistician (something that puts him well above
Napoleon and Caesar).
First phase at the battle of Chaeronea; Philip II fakes a retreat, Athenian army pursues. Alexander hits the Theban army. ================================
Second phase at the battle of Chaeronea; Philip II turns his army and fights the Athenians, breaking their spirit. The Theban forces are crushed when Philip turns his army against them. ================================
I do know of one book that covers Epaminondas - Victor Davis Hanson's "Soul of Battle - From Ancient Times to the Present Day: How Three Great Liberators Vanquished Tyranny"
I haven't read it myself as yet (my brother gave it to me as a gift), but I have read some others of Hanson's work - specifically "The Western Way of War" and can reccomend him heartily as a classical scholar.
Cheers
Eh, that is if you can sit through the author trying to weave his personal views about modern events into the text.
Tip: If you're conservative, don't buy it. If not, then you should be ok.
I do know of one book that covers Epaminondas - Victor Davis Hanson's "Soul of Battle - From Ancient Times to the Present Day: How Three Great Liberators Vanquished Tyranny"
I haven't read it myself as yet (my brother gave it to me as a gift), but I have read some others of Hanson's work - specifically "The Western Way of War" and can reccomend him heartily as a classical scholar.
Are you planning to add any early Roman generals? With Early, I mean before 300 BC. Some kings (although we do not know anything of their military campaigns, only the things we assume to them) were pretty worthy. I'll get back later, now I must run.
============================ Yes. I am gathering research notes as I write. However, there are still a handful of commanders that I am missing and an Eastern commander or two needs to be added.
rider: "Very impressive work..."
===================== Thanks.
rider: "So you researched it everything and then wrote small conclusions?" ===================== Yeah, not really a traditional format. But I discovered I learn more when I stick to factual, but fragmented sentences. With the exception, of course, of descriptive battles. That is when I use English paragraphs. I forgot to mention that when a battle is being written in detail the commander in BOLD is the suggestive winner of that battle.
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