Empires Built on Conquest Lack Coherence

Alexander's empire, despite its military achievements, was fundamentally unstable and lacked cohesive governance. Over his 13-year reign, he focused on conquest rather than state-building, leaving behind a realm characterized by military occupation rather than a unified administration. Existing systems were often retained, particularly the Achaemenid political structures, but significant administrative foundations were absent. The Macedonian forces acted like a destructive steamroller, winning battles and taking cities without proper engagement in governance or administration, illustrating that victories in war do not equate to the establishment of a functioning state.

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