Ancient Greece was divided into city-states (poleis) centered on western Aegean Sea. Mycenean Greece lasted from 1600 to 1100 BC, described in Homer's works. Greece had colonies in Italy, Egypt, and numerous Greek islands
Born in 356 BCE at Pella, Alexander became king of Macedonia in 336 BCE. He was trained by Aristotle from age 13 to 16, developing a scientific approach. Defeated the Maedi and broke the Sacred Band of Thebes at the Battle of Chaeronea
Roxana was a Sogdian or Bactrian princess born to Bactrian nobleman Oxyartes. Alexander fell in love with her during a celebration at Sogdian Rock. Their marriage occurred in 327 BC in Macedonian rite. Alexander married Roxana despite opposition from his companions
Aristotle tutored Alexander from age 14 to 16. His father Phillip II transformed Macedonia into a military superpower. Alexander inherited his father's well-trained army and phalanx formation
Alexander defeated Persian satraps at Granicus in 334 BC. Darius III gathered reinforcements and marched behind Hellenic advance. Battle occurred near Issus city, 2.6 km from Gulf of Issus
First major battle between Alexander and Persian Empire in 334 BC. Philip II's death in 336 BC led to Persian counter-offensive. Persian army numbered 14,000-40,000 men, including Greek mercenaries