Alexander the Great is undoubtedly one of the greatest generals in history. In a ten years’ time he was able to create one of the biggest empires of ancient times, unifying thousands of people under his rule. He was incredibly skilled. Even his enemies recognized his superior abilities. We all know that. And we all also know he was suddenly killed by a fever at the age of 32. But many people don’t know that during his life, Alexander succeeded in avoiding death many times. Today, we will talk about his “Nine Lives”.
The Spearman
In 334 bC Alexander started his invasion of Persia. In May, his army clashed with the Persians along the Granicus river. Alexander had the habit of personally leading his army on the battlefield. So, when the battle started, he and his cavalry charged directly into the enemy. In the middle of the fight, a Persian spearman tried to pierce the king with his spear. Fortunately for Alexander, his body guard Cletus sensed the enemy, and was able to deflect his spear in time
The River
While travelling through Cilicia, Alexander and his army stopped near the Cydnus river in order to rest. Alexander was so tired he decided to plunge into the river. Unfortunately, its water was extremely cold because of the snow melting on the mountains. Thermal shock was so strong the king fell paralyzed to the ground. For days Alexander stayed in his tent, unconscious and immobile. But in the end, his doctor Philip was able to cure him. Alexander recovered, ready to resume his campaign.
The Archer
After defeating Darius III at Issus, Alexander moved south. He conquered every city in his way, until he reached Gaza. There an eagle dropped a stone at his feet. It was considered an omen: the city would fall, but Alexander didn’t have to fight. Ignoring the omen, Alexander personally lead the assault the next day. Almost immediately, an arrow pierced his shield and hit his shoulder. Bleeding, Alexander was forced to retreat. But an arrow wasn’t enough to defeat him. The following day he returned, and succeeded in conquering the city.
The Desert
During his campaign in Egypt, Alexander decided to go and visit the Oracle of Siwa. Leaded by local guides, he and his closest companions travelled the desert. Unfortunately, the guides lost their way, trapping them all into the desert. The situation was desperate: supplies were over, and the scorching sun was wearing them. But suddenly, two ravens appeared. Following them, Alexander and his men were able to reach Siwa. There the Oracle foresaw his future as a great ruler.
The Plots
After defeating Darius III at Gaugamela, Alexander started conquering the rest of the Persian Empire. However his adoption of Persian traditions greatly disappointed some of his soldiers. In 330 BC a conspiracy to kill the king was organized. However a lower subordinated reported the plot to Alexander. The king was furious and started to purge his army. Every soldier suspected of plotting against him was killed. Even some of his closest friends, like the old Parmenion, were executed. The king started to become paranoid.
The Elephants
In 326 BC Alexander fought against the Indian king Porus near the Hydaspes river. The battle was one of the most difficult battles alexander had ever fought. Porus’ elephants completely crushed Alexander’s phalanx. His horses ran away after smelling the scent of the enormous animals. In a desperate attempt, Alexander charged the elephant Porus was riding. The pachyderm reacted, hitting him with its tusks. Alexander’s horse, Bucephalus, was killed by the blow. But its body protected Alexander, saving his life. In the end the Macedonian won. Alexander was impressed by his enemies and decided to spare their lives.
The Rapids
Soon after the battle of the Hydaspes, Alexander’s campaign in India ended. His soldiers wanted to go home. They sailed along the river, hoping that would shorten their journey. However the river was extremely hostile. Its swirling rapids crushed many boats, decimating the army. Alexander himself was thrown into the water. Having never learned how to swim, he started to drown. Fortunately for him, his friends were able to swim and saved him in time.
The Second Archer
While returning from India, the Macedonians were forced to face the Malli tribes. In 325 BC Alexander’s army assaulted the fortress of Multan. Alexander decided again to personally lead the assault. And he was hit again by an arrow. But this time the injury was more severe. The arrow penetrated his armor, piercing his lung. Alexander was later cured, but he never completely recovered. His end was near.
The Fever
After the end of his campaign, Alexander started to reorganize his empire. He decided to settle in Babylon. There he celebrated his victory with a big party. But the following day, he was sick. A mysterious fever was consuming him. None of his doctors were able to cure him. On the 11th of June, 323 BC, Alexander the Great died. His last words were: “Give this empire to the strongest”.
In the end, everyone dies. And Alexander was not an exception. But nonetheless, he was able to avoid his death multiple times. He was extremely resilient. So resilient it’s almost like he truly had nine lives. Just like a cat.
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