Father-Son Dynamic as Analytical Model
Philip II (the founder) represents organizational builders who start from nothing, while Alexander (the inheritor) represents second-generation leaders who inherit established power structures. This pattern appears throughout history and modern organizations.
Alexander's Insecurity and Boundless Ambition
Alexander inherited Philip’s vast Macedonian empire at age 20, immediately hearing whispers that all achievements stemmed from his father’s work rather than his own merit. This psychological burden drove his entire reign and eventual self-destruction.
Succession Crisis and Power Consolidation Through Murder
Philip II remarried two years before his death, threatening Alexander and his mother Olympias’s position. The new wife Cleopatra bore a son Caranus, creating a rival heir. General Parmenion became kingmaker, ultimately supporting Alexander.
Destruction of Thebes as Political Terror
After Philip’s death, Greek city-states Athens, Thebes, and Sparta rebelled against Macedonian hegemony. Alexander responded with overwhelming force against Thebes specifically, sending a message to all potential rebels about the cost of resistance.
Memnon's War of Attrition Strategy
Memnon of Rhodes, a Greek mercenary general serving Persia, proposed the safest strategy to defeat Alexander at the war council before Granicus. His plan represented strategic wisdom but required Persian satraps to sacrifice short-term property for long-term victory.
Persian Satraps' Strategic Error and Short-Term Thinking
Persian provincial governors (satraps) rejected Memnon’s attrition strategy at the war council before Granicus. These local administrators controlled the territories Alexander would invade and prioritized protecting their personal property over Persian strategic interests.
Alexander's Recklessness at Battle of Granicus
At the Battle of Granicus in 334 BCE, Alexander led his cavalry charge personally from the front, exhibiting tremendous recklessness that nearly cost him his life. A Persian satrap knocked him down and another was about to kill him when Cleitus the Black saved him.
Loyalty, Gratitude, and Inevitable Betrayal
Parmenion announced army loyalty to Alexander after Philip’s death, making succession possible. Cleitus the Black saved Alexander’s life at Granicus. Both were Philip’s men, promoted for talent and merit. Both would later be killed by Alexander despite their essential service.