Final answer:
Philip II, Olympias, and Alexander the Great had a complex relationship shaped by Macedonian politics. Olympias's estrangement and suspected involvement in Philip's assassination allowed Alexander to become king.
Step-by-step explanation:
The relationship between Philip II, Olympias, and Alexander the Great was complex and underpinned by the intricate dynamics of Macedonian politics and personal ambitions.
Philip II, who transformed Macedon into a regional power, was married to Olympias, and together they were the parents of Alexander.
The family was caught in a web of political intrigue, resulting in Olympias being estranged from Philip. According to some historical accounts, it is believed that Olympias may have been involved in Philip's assassination in 336 BCE, paving the way for her son Alexander to ascend to the throne.
Under Philip, Macedon had achieved significant military success, including the unification of Greece and the preparations for an invasion of the Persian Empire.
Despite the military triumphs, the Macedonian kingdom was fraught with internal conflict and external pressures. Philip's rule over Greece was marked by the Greeks' resentment of Macedonian occupation and his continuous effort to maintain control over his new territories.
The Greek poleis, traditionally independent, were now united under Philip, as much by force as by his statesmanship. Alexander's role became prominent at the Battle of Chaeronea in 338 BCE, where he led the cavalry charge that resulted in the definitive Macedonian victory over the allied Greek forces.
As a prince and later as king, Alexander benefited from the political and military groundwork laid by his father, Philip II.