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History has been so fascinated with Alexander the Great that it has overlooked the genius of his father. But by his supreme skill at diplomacy, his mastery of intrigue, and his revolutionary innovations in warfare, Philip laid the foundation for everything his son achieved.
As Alexander would confess years later, sex and sleep more than anything else reminded him that he was mortal.
Darius would need at least a year to gather his army from the four corners of his realm to face Alexander, but when that day came it would be the greatest battle the world had ever known.
As he explained to his officers and men, the war against Persia could not be finished until the shah, as the Persians called their king, was mat, or finished. The endgame had to be shah mat, a Persian phrase that would evolve in time into checkmate.
Every man, woman, and child was killed in spite of their cries for mercy in Greek and the olive branches they held before them.
There is nothing great about a man who would massacre innocent civilians who wished no harm on anyone.
To whom do you leave your kingdom? They leaned close to hear his words. With great effort Alexander answered in a whisper: To the strongest.
