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Questions and Answers
What was the main reason Darius was able to escape from Alexander?
What was the main reason Darius was able to escape from Alexander?
What was Alexander's attitude towards his defeated opponents?
What was Alexander's attitude towards his defeated opponents?
What actions did Alexander take concerning the Persian dead?
What actions did Alexander take concerning the Persian dead?
How many Macedonian soldiers were reported to have been killed in battle?
How many Macedonian soldiers were reported to have been killed in battle?
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What was the fate of Darius' family after his defeat?
What was the fate of Darius' family after his defeat?
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What was the significance of the term 'Immortals' in relation to Darius' troops?
What was the significance of the term 'Immortals' in relation to Darius' troops?
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What event led to Alexander's grave condition before the battle?
What event led to Alexander's grave condition before the battle?
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How did Alexander prepare for battle against Darius?
How did Alexander prepare for battle against Darius?
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What happened when Darius' troops saw Alexander leading his forces?
What happened when Darius' troops saw Alexander leading his forces?
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What was the outcome of the initial clash between the two armies?
What was the outcome of the initial clash between the two armies?
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What did Alexander do to counter the Persian chariots during the battle?
What did Alexander do to counter the Persian chariots during the battle?
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What was the visual state of the battlefield after the conflict?
What was the visual state of the battlefield after the conflict?
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What was the final outcome of the battle for the Persians?
What was the final outcome of the battle for the Persians?
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Study Notes
Alexander's Response to Darius
- Alexander remained undeterred by Darius’ provocative letter, maintaining focus on his military objectives.
Darius' Forces and Strategy
- Darius amassed a significant army, including his family and 10,000 elite troops known as the Immortals, named for their ability to maintain a constant number through replacements.
Journey to Tarsus
- Alexander crossed the Cilician Taurus and reached Tarsus, noted as the capital of Cilicia.
- He took a swim in the river Cydnus but suffered a severe chill, risking his life, until treated by the renowned doctor Philip.
The Battle of Issus
- After recovering, Alexander advanced to confront Darius, who had established a camp at Issus.
- Alexander's troops prepared for battle, while Darius' forces hesitated upon seeing Alexander's charge.
Tactical Engagement
- Alexander’s strategy involved protecting his phalanx against enemy chariots and cavalry. Many of Darius' chariots were trapped or scattered.
- A trumpet signal initiated an infantry charge, leading to intense, chaotic combat.
Chaos of Battle
- Initial engagements saw fierce clashes, with both sides believing they had gained the upper hand.
- In the tumult, the battlefield was obscured by dust and blood, resulting in confusion among troops from both sides.
Defeat of the Persians
- Alexander's forces ultimately overwhelmed the Persian troops, causing a rout characterized by chaos and heavy casualties.
- Darius fled the battlefield, abandoning his chariot to avoid detection.
Pursuit of Darius
- Alexander pursued Darius, capturing his chariot, weapons, and family members, while Darius escaped due to the cover of darkness and a fresh horse.
Aftermath and Conduct
- Alexander respected the fallen by ordering honorable burials for brave Persian soldiers and treated Darius’ captured family with dignity.
- Casualties included over 20,000 Persian soldiers killed and 4,000 captured, alongside the Macedonian losses of 500 foot soldiers and 160 horsemen.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the significant events surrounding Alexander the Great and his encounter with Darius. This quiz covers Alexander's strategic movements and the famous 'Immortals' troops from Darius's army. Assess your understanding of this pivotal moment in ancient history.
