Final answer:
Alexander the Great, or Alexander III, succeeded his father Philip II and conquered the Persian Empire through decisive victories, such as the battles of Issus and Gaugamela. A student of Aristotle, he crafted a lasting legacy as a military genius and ruler, but his premature death led to a power struggle among his generals. His conquests led to the spread of Greek culture, notably creating a unique Greco-Egyptian culture in Egypt.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alexander III, later known as Alexander the Great, ascended to the throne at the age of twenty following the death of his father, Philip II. He immediately faced invasions and rebellion, but swiftly subdued these challenges. Alexander the Great embarked on his father's plan to conquer the Persian Empire, facing Darius III at the significant battles of Issus (333 BCE) and Gaugamela (330 BCE), both resulting in crushing defeats for the Persian forces. Alexander's successful military campaigns led to his control over a vast empire and his recognition as a military genius and charismatic leader. He was tutored by Aristotle and aimed to surpass the legendary Greek hero Achilles.
During his reign, Alexander carefully crafted his image to maintain control over his empire, ensuring his subjects recognized his authority. He also embraced local customs in the regions he conquered, endearing him to many of his subjects. Unfortunately, his untimely death in 323 BCE in Babylon, due to factors possibly related to exhaustion, alcohol, and his wartime injuries, led to a power vacuum and subsequent decades of conflict among his generals.
After Alexander's death, Egypt became an essential part of his former empire, going under the control of his general Ptolemy, who established a dynasty leading to a unique Greco-Egyptian culture in the region with Alexandria becoming a prominent center of learning.