The Conquest of Persia: Alexander the Strategist

The Conquest of Persia: Alexander the Strategist is an in depth analysis of Alexander the Great's ability as an overall strategist. His military prowess, leadership qualities and his ability to win a battle has rarely been in doubt. His decision making however has been called into question and this book focuses on some of the most crucial strategic decisions he had to make. Included are analyses of his initial campaigns to secure the Balkans, his decision to siege Halicarnassus and subsequently his bold decision to de-mobilise his fleet and seek to destroy the Persian navy by land. Additionally analysed is the risky adventure of attempting to breach the seemingly impregnable island city of Tyre, his choice to annex Egypt and visit the oracle of Siwa as well as his insistence to march through the Gedrosian Desert on his return to Babylon. This book argues that at the most critical junctures of his campaign to take over the Persian Empire, Alexander's strategic decision making abilities were found wanting.