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Asia Minor
A peninsula in western Asia located between the Black and Mediterranean seas. Asia Minor was Alexander's first objective, though he eventually sought to conquer much more territory. -
City-state
A city usually in Greece that possessed its own sovereignty, though it could be subject to a broader authority, as in the case of the Hellenic League. -
Great King
The ruler of Persia. -
Hellenic League
The league first established by Philip that united the Greek city-states. -
Hegemon
Term for a leader, specifically of the Hellenic League. -
Satrap
Term for a ruler of a province in Asia. -
Chaeronea
Philip's monumental victory in 338 B.C. over the combined forces of Athens and Thebes. Alexander played a vital role in defeating the Sacred Band, an elite group of Theban soldiers.
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Gaugamela
The second defeat of Darius in 331 B.C.
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Granicus
The first battle between Alexander and the Persians, which took place in 333 B.C.
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Issus
Alexander's first meeting with Darius in 332 B.C. He defeated the Great King soundly despite poor prospects, for the Persians had surprised Alexander with great positioning.