Alexander the Great, born over 2000 years ago, was one of history’s most exceptional military leaders and conquerors. In this post, we share famous Alexander the Great quotes for your daily dose of inspiration.

Early Life

Alexander the Great was born in 356 BCE in Pella, the ancient capital of Macedonia. The son of King Philip II and Queen Olympias, Alexander received an education under the tutelage of the renowned philosopher Aristotle. This education played a crucial role in shaping his intellectual and strategic prowess.

In 336 BCE, at the age of 20, Alexander ascended to the throne of Macedonia after the assassination of his father. Alexander was determined to fulfill his father’s vision of conquering the Persian Empire. He quickly consolidated power in Greece before embarking on his ambitious military campaigns.

Military Genius

One of Alexander’s defining characteristics was his military genius. He led his army with unparalleled skill and decisiveness, implementing innovative strategies that often caught his enemies off guard.

The Macedonian phalanx was a key element of his military success. This was a tightly packed infantry formation armed with the sarissa (a long spear). His army’s mobility and adaptability, coupled with his own tactical brilliance, allowed him to overcome formidable foes.

Taking the Persian Empire

In 334 BCE, Alexander crossed the Hellespont. And from there, he initiated his conquest of the Persian Empire. His first major victory came at the Battle of Granicus, where he defeated Persian forces led by the satraps of Asia Minor.

Subsequent victories ensured at Issus in 333 BCE and Gaugamela in 331 BCE. These secured his control over the Persian Empire and led to the downfall of its ruler, Darius III.

As Alexander marched eastward, he incorporated Persian customs into his rule. This fostered a sense of unity among his diverse subjects. He ultimately married Roxana, a Bactrian princess. Soon after, he encouraged his officers to intermarry with Persian noblewomen, promoting cultural fusion.

Conquering the Indian Subcontinent

Reaching the edge of the known world, Alexander continued his conquest into the Indian subcontinent.

His most famous battle in this region was the Battle of Hydaspes in 326 BCE, where he faced King Porus. Despite emerging victorious, Alexander’s army was exhausted and homesick. They expressed reluctance to press on. This marked the turning point in his conquests as he agreed to turn back, realizing the limits of his empire.

On the return journey, Alexander faced numerous challenges, including navigating the Gedrosian Desert. His resilience and leadership were evident as he successfully led his army through these harsh conditions.

However, upon reaching Babylon in 323 BCE, his journey came to an abrupt end. Alexander fell ill and died at the age of 32. He left behind a vast empire and a legacy that would shape the course of history.

Famous Alexander the Great Quotes

Below we share inspirational Alexander the Great quotes from throughout his military career. We hope these will be a source of inspiration and courage in your life.

“I would rather live a short life of glory than a long one of obscurity.”

“Whatever possession we gain by our sword cannot be sure or lasting, but the love gained by kindness and moderation is certain and durable.”

“Let us conduct ourselves so that all men wish to be our friends and all fear to be our enemies.”

“In the end, when it’s over, all that matters is what you’ve done.”

“There is nothing impossible to him who will try.”

“I’m not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion.”

“Remember, upon the conduct of each depends the fate of all.”

“Every light is not the sun.”

“Life is an echo; what you send out comes back, what you sow you reap, what you give you get, and what you see in others exists in you.”

“With the right attitude, self-imposed limitations vanish.”

“I am indebted to my father for a living, but to my teacher for living well.”

“True love never has a happy ending because there is no ending to true love.”

Alexander the Great Quotes – Final Words

Born in 356 BCE, Alexander the Great was one of history’s most exceptional military leaders and conquerors. Despite dying early at 32, he left behind a vast empire and a legacy that would shape the course of history.

We hope you enjoyed these Alexander the Great quotes. Check out our site for more sources of inspiration.