ABSTRACT
At the age of twenty Alexander was in charge of Macedon and, two years later, the invasion of Persia. The first battle of the invasion was the Battle of Granicus River, where the Persians had a strong defensive position. Moreover, Alexander had no choice but to meet the Persians in battle. Alexander's forces crossed the river and attacked the Persian left wing with a joint assault by his cavalry and infantry. With Egypt under control, Alexander could deal with the eastern sections of the Persian Empire. After Alexander gained control of Bactria and Sogdiana, he looked toward India. Alexander was a brilliant tactician and a courageous, inspiring leader who won the loyalty of his men. He shared the sufferings and was always at the center of any battle, fighting alongside his troops. However, he was not a good administrator or statesman, nor did he build a lasting empire.
