Tactics of Alexander the Great

Massive armies stuck in open battle with formal arrangements and relentless movement head on in clear ranks was the traditional war machine at the time Alexander the Great inherited his throne and armies. Longing to make his nation powerful and efficient, he immediately began to adapt his men, tools and tactics to mold his army into a practical and powerful political asset.

By personal example, this atypical leader encouraged his men by leading them into battle. Prior to attack he would ride before his men and call out the names of those who fought bravely in the last battle. Challenging the enemy side by side with a general is an honor unknown to previous warriors. Afterward, Alexander the Great would help with the wounded and bury with honors his men and any of the enemy who had fought with distinction.

All tactics were considered and all battles were approached with economic use of manpower. Where small bands of rapidly attacking terrorist groups would suffice, Alexander the Great would use such tactics. If a huge siege force was called for, the genius would pull together all the power in man and machinery he could.

Never forgetting his army was a tool to secure a political victory while maintaining peace and prosperity, Alexander the Great would use multiple social tactics as well. Marriage of conquered women was encouraged and he himself did so twice. Improved community services such as roads and shipping lanes were promptly developed and protected. Strategies for the next conquest were then made. In ten years of battles large and small, Alexander the Great is recorded as victorious in all.