English

How significant was Alexander the Great’s since in Ancient Afghanistan in the development of his military leadership?

Alexander’s young and adult

Alexander the Great (356BC - 323BC) was the son of King Philip II of Macedonia. Educated by Aristotle, he was inspired by Homer's heroes as he grew up in great privilege but fortunately also great learning.

He became king at the age of 20 when his father was assassinated. Wise beyond his years, he acted fast to secure the Macedonian hegemony. Ever the pragmatist, when he went abroad, he bribed those at home to ensure loyalty and stability (despite being in financial difficulties).

Army

Alexander inherited a well-trained army from his father and trained them even further. Perhaps surprisingly, the size of his army never went over 40,000. What Alexander did value and perhaps what kept his army smaller, was the mobility and speed gave military advantage.

Army pay was meager but was paid promptly. However he ensured they were well-fed. Permitted booty was fair and significant -- thus his soldiers were well motivated to win battles.

He also worked hard in other ways to maintain the loyalty and motivation of his men. He generally dressed like his soldiers and spent time with them, and was often found walking through the camp, stopping to talk and listen to groups of men. This outward appearance of love and concern, allied with his courage and determination, evoked great affection from his soldiers.

Alexander's army travelled far and generally lived off the land they conquered. In between, he sustained a strong supply chain, to sustain food, communication and weapons.

He travelled with builders, engineers, poets, historian, scientists, doctors, slave traders and, importantly, a historian, who wrote up his exploits which were then sent far and wide so his name would be forever respected.

Alexander the Great conquered and ruled Iran with effects lasting for two centuries. Unlike the Persians, Alexander was not a...