The Ancients Successors of Alexander the Great
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May 25, 2025 Graham Wrightson, an Associate Professor of History specializing in ancient warfare, joins to discuss the tumultuous aftermath of Alexander the Great's death at just 32. The conversation delves into the fierce power struggles among his generals, like Leonatus and Antipater, igniting the brutal Wars of the Successors. Listeners will find themselves captivated by tales of ambition, betrayal, and military strategies as these former allies carve out new kingdoms from Alexander's fractured empire, transforming history into a real-life drama filled with intrigue.
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Power Vacuum After Alexander's Death
- Alexander the Great died unexpectedly without a clear heir at age 32, leaving a vast empire in turmoil.
- His generals, powerful military leaders, held real authority and vied for control over the fragmented empire.
Generals’ Struggle and Rebellions
- Soon after Alexander's death, his generals divided the empire but faced revolts like the Lamian War in Greece.
- The uneasy alliance between senior generals Perdiccas, Antipater, and Craterus fractured quickly due to personal ambitions.
Rise of Successor Kingdoms
- The initial successors died or were killed quickly, leading to new leaders like Ptolemy and Seleucus establishing independent kingdoms.
- Generals gradually abandoned claims through marriage and familial links, declaring themselves kings in their own right.