Show 73 - Mania for Subjugation III
In this episode of Dan Carlin's Hardcore History, Carlin examines Alexander the Great's character and military campaigns, focusing on the unique combination of traits that defined his leadership. The discussion explores how Alexander's quest for glory, belief in his divine ancestry, and exceptional military abilities shaped his actions, while also addressing the substantial financial and logistical challenges he faced during his Persian invasion.
The episode delves into specific historical events, such as the Battle of Granicus River, using varying historical accounts to illustrate the complexities of interpreting ancient sources. Carlin contextualizes Alexander's achievements by comparing them to other historical conquerors, noting his unprecedented accomplishments at a young age and his influence on later military strategies.
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1-Page Summary
Alexander the Great's Character, Motivations, and Leadership
Alexander the Great was driven by an insatiable quest for glory and recognition that exceeded typical Macedonian royal ambitions. Dan Carlin explains that Alexander's "Homeric idea" of surpassing legendary figures like Achilles led him to take extreme risks, often leading attacks from the front lines. This drive was further fueled by his belief in his divine ancestry, which Carlin suggests acted like "liquid luck," boosting his confidence to extraordinary levels.
His exceptional military brilliance, combined with his youth and athleticism, shaped his leadership style and contributed to an aura of invincibility among both allies and adversaries.
Challenges of Alexander's Persian Invasion
Alexander's campaign faced significant financial and logistical hurdles. He inherited substantial debt from his father and struggled with the enormous costs of maintaining his army, which F.S. Niden estimated at 7,000 to 10,000 talents annually. The Persian Empire proved a formidable adversary, with its vast territory and diverse military forces, including elite cavalry units and various infantry types.
To secure support for his invasion, Alexander employed a combination of diplomacy, propaganda, and force with Greek city-states, while maintaining a backup force under Antipater to prevent potential rebellions.
Granicus River Battle: Varying Historical Accounts
The Battle of Granicus, one of Alexander's first major encounters with Persian forces, is described differently by various ancient sources. While Arrian's account suggests Alexander ignored his general Parmenio's advice about crossing the river, Diodorus presents a more cautious Alexander who waited to cross until the following day.
These contrasting narratives highlight the challenges historians face when interpreting ancient sources. As A.B. Bosworth emphasizes, the chaotic nature of such encounters and potential propaganda efforts complicate our historical understanding of these events.
Comparisons Between Alexander and Other Conquerors in History
Dan Carlin distinguishes Alexander from other historical conquerors through his unprecedented ambition and achievements at a remarkably young age. Beginning his Persian conquest in his early twenties, Alexander's swift military successes remain unmatched by later conquerors. Carlin notes how Alexander's strategies, particularly his use of foreign mercenaries, presaged tactics later employed by colonial empires. While earlier accounts portrayed Alexander as heroic, contemporary scholarship has become more critical of his motivations and methods.
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Counterarguments
- Alexander's quest for glory may also be interpreted as a strategic expansion of Macedonian influence and power, rather than purely personal ambition.
- The depiction of Alexander leading from the front lines could be seen as a tactical decision to inspire troops rather than solely a pursuit of personal glory.
- The belief in divine ancestry was common among ancient rulers and may have been used as a political tool to legitimize his rule rather than a genuine personal conviction.
- Alexander's military brilliance could be attributed to the foundation laid by his father, Philip II, who reformed the Macedonian army and state.
- The financial and logistical challenges faced by Alexander were not unique to his campaign and were common issues for military expeditions in the ancient world.
- The Persian Empire's military might have been in decline, which could have facilitated Alexander's conquests.
- The use of diplomacy and propaganda is a standard practice in warfare and statecraft, not unique to Alexander's strategy.
- The varying accounts of the Battle of Granicus could reflect different perspectives or biases of the ancient historians rather than deliberate propaganda.
- The interpretation of ancient battles is inherently challenging due to the limited and often biased sources, not necessarily a reflection of deliberate obfuscation.
- Comparing Alexander to other conquerors may overlook the unique historical contexts and challenges they faced.
- The use of foreign mercenaries was a common practice in ancient warfare, not necessarily a strategic innovation by Alexander.
- Contemporary scholarship's critical reassessment of Alexander's motivations and methods is part of the ongoing historical debate and does not diminish his achievements.
Actionables
- Reflect on your personal ambitions by journaling to identify what drives you and how it compares to historical figures you admire. Just as Alexander the Great was driven by a desire for glory, understanding your own motivations can help you set more meaningful goals. Start by writing down your long-term ambitions, then break them down into actionable steps, and consider how they align with the values and achievements of leaders you look up to.
- Develop a personal "confidence booster" ritual inspired by Alexander's belief in his divine ancestry. This could be a morning routine that includes affirmations, visualization of success, or a physical activity that makes you feel strong and capable. For example, before a challenging task, take a moment to remind yourself of past successes or visualize completing the task with excellence to enhance your self-assurance.
- Create a "diversity of tactics" plan for tackling complex problems in your life, drawing inspiration from Alexander's multifaceted approach to warfare. Map out a problem you're facing, then brainstorm various strategies to address it, including direct action, strategic alliances, and innovative solutions. For instance, if you're aiming to improve your health, combine exercise (direct action) with joining a support group (strategic alliance) and trying a new health app (innovative solution) to create a comprehensive plan.
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Alexander the Great's Character, Motivations, and Leadership
Exploring Alexander the Great’s character reveals a figure driven by a desire for glory and recognition, deeply influenced by cultural values, personal beliefs, and exceptional abilities.
Alexander Sought Glory, Honor, and Recognition Beyond Typical Macedonian Kings
Alexander Aimed to Surpass Legends Like Achilles, Striving For Supremacy at any Cost
Alexander the Great harbored ambitions that far exceeded those of his Macedonian predecessors. His quest for conquest continued even after traditional needs, such as financial motivations, were met. Unlike typical Macedonian kings who might have been satisfied with their wealth and success, Alexander's pursuit of greatness was insatiable.
Carlin discusses Alexander's "Homeric idea" of striving to surpass legendary figures like Achilles. This drive led Alexander to seek glory and recognition akin to a wish for immortal fame. Anson also notes Alexander's longing to be memorialized for his achievements, and his actions were more than just aspirations for greatness—they were an effort to ensure his legacy transcended that of his forebears.
Alexander Took Extreme Risks, Leading From the Front and Seeking Distinguished Opponents
Alexander’s desire for glory was so intense that he often took extreme risks. He led attacks from the front lines and actively sought confrontation with distinguished opponents. Dan Carlin gives the example of Alexander's conspicuous presence on the battlefield—such as at the Battle of Granicus— and hints at an obsession with exhibiting his military prowess and bravery. The Macedonian culture, which honored distinction in combat and heroic emulation, expected the king to be in the thick of battle, and Alexander took this expectation to new heights.
Alexander's aim to surpass legends like Achilles, thirst for honor, and eagerness to achieve and maintain an invincible aura, as noted by Carlin, distinguished his character and leadership style from traditional Macedonian kings.
Alexander's Beliefs May Have Influenced His Decisions
Alexander's Belief in Divine Ancestry and Destiny
The belief in his divine ancestry heavily influenced Alexander’s decision-making process. He was raised to believe that he was a direct descendant of Achilles. Stories suggested by ancient sources, including Plutarch's account of Olympias's supposed divine encounter, may have driven Alexander's sense of destiny.
Dan Carlin suggests that the belief functioned like "liquid luck," boosting his confidence to unparalleled levels. This sense of divinity may have fueled his willingness to take risks, contributing to his legendary feats. Alexander's actions, particularly in Troy, such as his homage to the supposed tomb of Achilles and his presentation of heroic honors to the great dead, are emblematic of his pursuit to align and perhaps even exceed the mythical legacies of Greek heroes.
In his campaign, Alexander consistently conducted sacrifices and religious observances before key events, demonstrating a profound reverence for the supernatural and his perceived connection to it. For instance, he conducted sacrifices from Europe to Asia and engaged in practices thought to show reverence to the gods and supernatural forces, including the deceased warriors of antiquity.
Alexander Conducted Sacrifices and Religious Observances Before Key Events, Showing His Reverence for the Supernatural
The importance Alexander placed on religious observances reflects his sense of righteousness an ...
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Alexander the Great's Character, Motivations, and Leadership
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- Alexander's pursuit of glory and honor may have been driven as much by political necessity and the expectations of his time as by personal ambition.
- The idea that Alexander aimed to surpass Achilles and other legendary figures might be an interpretation based on the romanticization of his character by later historians rather than his actual intent.
- Alexander's insatiable pursuit of greatness could be viewed as a product of his era's imperialistic mindset rather than a unique personal characteristic.
- The notion of Alexander seeking immortal fame could be challenged by suggesting that his actions were also pragmatic efforts to secure his empire and authority.
- Alexander's extreme risks in battle could be criticized as reckless and endangering not only his life but also the success of his campaigns and the lives of his soldiers.
- The emphasis on Alexander's military bravery might overshadow the contributions of his generals and soldiers, who also played critical roles in his victories.
- The cultural expectations of Macedonian kings could be seen as a constraint that Alexander navigated rather than solely a platform for personal glory.
- The belief in divine ancestry and destiny could be interpreted as a political tool used by Alexander to legitimize his rule rather than a genuine personal conviction.
- The stories of divine encounters and their influence on Alexander's confidence could be exaggerated by ancient sources, and his strategic decisions might have been based more on political acumen than on a sense of destiny.
- Alexander's religious observances could be seen as strategic acts to maintain the support of his troops and allies by adhering to expected rituals rather than a reflection of deep personal reverence.
- The construction and restoration of shrines could be interpreted as a means of cultural assimilation and politi ...
Actionables
- You can set personal benchmarks inspired by historical or fictional figures you admire to elevate your own goals. For example, if you're inspired by a renowned writer, aim to write a certain number of words daily or complete a novel in a year, surpassing your previous writing achievements.
- Embrace a personal challenge that involves risk and requires courage, similar to leading an attack from the front lines. This could be as simple as signing up for a public speaking event if you're usually shy, or joining an amateur sports league if you've never played the sport, to push your boundaries and grow your confidence.
- Honor your achievements by creatin ...
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Challenges of Alexander's Persian Invasion
The complex challenges faced by Alexander the Great during his Persian invasion are discussed by examining financial constraints, logistical issues, and the dynamics of confronting a vast and diverse empire.
Alexander's Campaign Faced Financial and Supply Constraints
Alexander's Persian campaign was fraught with financial and logistical difficulties, significantly impacting his military strategies and movements.
Alexander Inherited Debt and Struggled to Sustain Army Costs
Peter and the generals discussed the economic pressures Alexander faced, inherited a significant amount of debt from his father, Philip. Beyond inheriting debt, Alexander strained his financial situation by exempting most of his population from taxation and continuing to spend extravagantly on celebrations. Even with funds running dangerously low—potentially only enough to sustain his army for about two weeks—Alexander seemed pushed by financial needs to act quickly. Selling 30,000 Thebans into slavery was one desperate measure to relieve some of the economic stress. His financial constraints were so dire that he possibly pawned royal lands to finance the campaign. Despite his superior force, Alexander eyed the Persian empire’s wealth as crucial for his financial stability.
Logistical Challenges of Feeding, Equipping, and Transporting Alexander's Large, Mobile Army
The logistical complexities of Alexander's campaign included feeding, supplying water for, and remunerating a sprawling army, which Dan Carlin discusses. F.S. Niden estimated the army’s annual maintenance costs were between 7,000 to 10,000 talents—far exceeding the revenue of Alexander's father, Philip. This logistical challenge was intensified by the need to support not only the fighting force, whose numbers ranged between 30,000 to 43,000 infantry and 5,000 to 5,500 cavalry, but also non-military personnel like cooks, medics, and engineers. The fleet of 160 warships and transport vessels, along with Parmenio’s vanguard of up to 10,000 troops, added to the stiff task of maneuvering such a large force. The difficulties extended to issues like sanitation, potential plagues, and whether localities could support the feeding and supplying of this mammoth contingent.
Persian Empire: A Formidable Adversary With Vast Territory and a Diverse Military
Alexander’s Greek army faced a massive and well-established adversary in the Persian Empire, which spanned a territory comparable to the size of the United States and boasted a multifaceted and capable military.
Persian Army's Cavalry, Infantry, and Hoplites Challenged Alexander
The Persian army offered formidable opposition with elite cavalry units rooted in a culture that prized such warhorses. They could provide a range of troops, from light slingers and archers to locals akin to Greek hoplites. The Persians had adapted to heavier armor, even for their horses, and had weapons designed for close-quarters combat. Yet, their approach to battle often avoided front-on confrontations with Alexander's well-organized infantry.
Persian Command and Decision-Making Complexity Hindered Alexander's Anticipation of Responses
Carlin delves into the internal issues and complexities of Persian rule that may have affected their military strategy and responses. Regional governors wielded significant autonomy, complicating centralized control. Darius III, w ...
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Challenges of Alexander's Persian Invasion
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Counterarguments
- Alexander's financial situation, while strained, may not have been as dire as suggested, considering his ability to continue funding his campaign and the eventual wealth he acquired from conquering Persian territories.
- The decision to exempt most of his population from taxation could be seen as a strategic move to maintain domestic support and stability while he was on campaign.
- The sale of Thebans into slavery, while a desperate measure, was not uncommon in ancient warfare and could be viewed within the context of the era's practices rather than as a purely economic decision.
- The suggestion that Alexander pawned royal lands is debated among historians, and some argue that his financial strategies were more complex and less desperate.
- The logistical challenges faced by Alexander's army were significant, but his ability to overcome them demonstrates his exceptional planning and the capabilities of his logistics corps.
- The estimated annual maintenance costs of Alexander's army may have been offset by the spoils of war and contributions from conquered territories.
- The Persian Empire's avoidance of direct frontal battles could be interpreted as a strategic choice rather than a weakness, as they may have been attempting to exploit Alexander's vulnerabilities.
- The complexity of Persian command and the autonomy of regional governors might have been a double-edged sword, offering both challenges and flexibility ...
Actionables
- You can analyze your personal budget like a military campaign by identifying essential expenses and potential financial threats. Just as Alexander viewed the Persian empire's wealth as crucial for his financial stability, consider your income sources as territories to conquer and protect. Create a spreadsheet to track your monthly income and expenses, categorize them into 'critical' and 'non-critical' costs, and identify areas where you can cut back or increase revenue.
- Develop a contingency plan for unexpected financial shortfalls by setting aside a 'war chest' savings account. Taking inspiration from Alexander's need to act quickly due to low funds, establish an emergency fund that can cover at least two weeks of living expenses. Start by saving a small percentage of your income each month and gradually increase it as you become more comfortable with your budget.
- Strengthen your network of support by b ...
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Granicus River Battle: Varying Historical Accounts
Multiple historical perspectives on the Battle of Granicus offer differing views on the tactics and outcomes, raising questions about the reliability and agendas of ancient sources.
Granicus Battle: Key Early Clash in Alexander's Persian Campaign
Dan Carlin, Arrian, Diodorus, and A.B. Bosworth provide accounts that showcase the importance and complexity of the Battle of Granicus, one of the first major clashes in Alexander's campaign against the Persian Empire.
Persians Took Defensive Positions to Offset Alexander's Infantry and Cavalry
The Persians positioned themselves defensively to counteract the effectiveness of Alexander's infantry, particularly his phalangites and their long pikes, and his superior cavalry. They faced Alexander's forces on the riverbank and hoped to maintain the high ground to their advantage during the encounter.
Alexander's Risky but Successful Attack on Persian Forces
Alexander's tactic was to drive the Persians out from the bank and onto open ground where his forces could engage more effectively. This approach paid off as he led a daring charge across the river. However, this move was deemed risky by his adviser Parmenio, who viewed the Persian defenses as a potential "death trap."
Differing Historical Accounts of the Battle of Granicus River
Ancient sources provide conflicting stories about the battle's events, including whether Alexander heeded the advice of his general Parmenio.
Alexander Disregards Parmenio's Advice
According to Arrian, Alexander ignored Parmenio’s conservative advice to wait and not to cross the river due to the risky defensive positions of the Persians and the disadvantage of exiting the river in a disorganized manner under attack. Instead, Alexander felt it was not in his army's character to hesitate because of a small river.
Diodorus: Alexander Waits to Cross the River and Engage Persians the Next Day
Contrastingly, Diodorus' account suggests a different sequence of events where Alexander waits upon arriving at the river, then crosses it the next day before the Persians can react, engaging them in a traditional battle away from the river's disadvantage.
Challenges In Reconstructing Ancient Battles: Propaganda and Interpretation
These discrepancies reveal the difficulties historians face when interpreting ancient sources that might have been shaped by agendas or lost to time.
Sources Might Alter Details to Serve Agendas
There is a consensus among historians that sources like Arrian, Diodor ...
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Granicus River Battle: Varying Historical Accounts
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Actionables
- You can enhance your decision-making skills by practicing rapid chess or speed-based strategy games, which force you to make quick, decisive moves similar to Alexander's immediate action at Granicus. These games can help you learn to trust your instincts and make bold decisions under pressure, reflecting Alexander's belief in the importance of not hesitating.
- Develop critical thinking by comparing different news sources on a current event, much like historians analyze varying accounts of the Battle of Granicus. This exercise will help you understand how narratives can be shaped and will improve your ability to discern bias and reliability in information, akin to the scholarly debates over ancient historical texts.
- Improve your leadership by role-playing scenarios where you must lead a team through a complex pr ...
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Comparisons Between Alexander and Other Conquerors in History
Dan Carlin highlights Alexander the Great's unique place in history, through his unprecedented ambition and the lasting impact of his conquests.
Alexander's Ambition Distinguished Him From Other Leaders
Carlin illustrates the stark contrast between Alexander the Great and his historical peers in terms of their age of ascension and their ambitions.
Alexander, Early 20s, Conquest of Persian Empire
Alexander began his conquest of the Persian Empire in his early twenties, a feat that sets him apart from other leaders of historical significance due to his remarkably young age at the time of these vast achievements.
Alexander's Drive to Surpass Legends Like Achilles Was Unique
Carlin points out Alexander’s unique drive for conquest, as he relentlessly pursued fame and glory inspired by mythical heroes like Achilles, evidenced by his theatrical and heroic efforts emulating such legendary figures.
Unprecedented Scale and Scope of Alexander's Conquests
Alexander's Swift Conquests Unmatched by Later Conquerors
Carlin provides insight into the scale of Alexander’s conquests by comparing his army's size to combined armies several centuries later, indicating his achievements' extraordinary scale and pace.
Challenges Faced by Alexander Echoed Later Imperialist Powers
Dan Carlin draws parallels between Alexander’s strategies, particularly using foreign mercenaries, to those employed by colonial empires, emphasizing how his military tactics presaged later imperialist powers.
Legacy and Historical Views on Alexander's Conquests Evolve With Cultural and Political Shifts
Early ...
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Comparisons Between Alexander and Other Conquerors in History
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Counterarguments
- While Alexander's youth is notable, other young leaders have also achieved significant power and success, such as Tutankhamun in ancient Egypt or more recently, Napoleon Bonaparte, who became a general at 24 and Emperor of France at 35.
- The drive to emulate legendary figures is not unique to Alexander; many leaders throughout history have sought to align themselves with cultural heroes or deities to legitimize their rule and inspire their followers.
- The scale and pace of Alexander's conquests were indeed remarkable, but other empires have expanded rapidly under certain leaders, such as the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan.
- The use of foreign mercenaries was a common practice in many ancient armies, not a strategy pioneered by Alexander, and can be seen in various historical contexts.
- The portrayal of historical figures as either heroic or villainous of ...
Actionables
- Reflect on your personal ambitions by journaling about figures from history or fiction you admire and why their qualities resonate with you. This exercise can help you identify traits and goals you value, similar to how Alexander was inspired by Achilles. For example, if you admire a leader's resilience, write about how you can embody resilience in your own challenges.
- Analyze the impact of your actions on others by creating a simple "consequence map." Draw a flowchart that starts with an action you're considering and branches out to show potential effects on people around you. This mirrors the critical reassessment of historical figures, allowing you to consider the ethical dimensions of your decisions. ...
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