Battle of Granicus and Battle of Issus

When was the Battle of Granicus?

334BC

How many Greek mercenaries did Alexander kill at the Battle of Granicus?

All but 2000

Why did Alexander kill the Greek mercenaries at the battle of Granicus?

They were seen as traitors in accordance to the League of Corinth

What happened to the remaining 2000 Greek mercenaries at the Battle of Granicus?

They were sent to work in the mines

What message did Alexander send to Athens alongside the suits of armour according to Arrian?

From Alexander, son of Phillip, and the Greeks except for Sparta

What did Alexander’s exclusion of Sparta in his message emphasise?

The Pan-Hellenic nature of the expedition

Why did Alexander reject Parmenio’s advice to fight a naval battle?

If the Persians won, it would encourage the Greeks to revolt

What are the possible reasons why Alexander disbanded his fleet?

He was short of money, Was no match for the Persian fleet, Had no need of the fleet since he had control over Asia Minor

How did Alexander plan to destroy the Persian fleet?

Planned to take over the coastal cities so the Persian fleet would have no place to dock

Quote from Arrian about Alexander plan to control the Persian fleet

By taking the coastal cities he would destroy the Persian Fleet, for they would have nowhere to get fresh crews from and no port to put in

When did Aexander order a new fleet to be built and what did it show?

333BC; Showed that disbanding his fleet was a mistake

Where did Alexander believe Darius to be as he campaigned west?

South east of the Syrian gates

Where was Darius during the battle of Issus?

Northwards through the Armenic Gates

Why was Darius unsuccessful at the Battle of Issus?

Alexander prevented him from going past the narrow coastal plain so he couldn’t use his superiority in numbers

What was significant abobut Alexander capturing Darius’ tent?

He experienced what it’s like to be King of Persia

What did Parmenio say regarding Darius ransom and what was Alexander’s reply according to Plutarch?

Parmenio said “If I were Alexander, I would accept the offer” and Alexander said “If I were Parmenio, I would also accept it”

Why is it believed that Parmenio possibly didn’t say “If I were Alexander, I would accept the offer”?

It’s not the first time his advice was scorned in such manner

Why would Parmenio saying “If I were Alexander, I would accept the offer” be added to the official ‘history’ at a later date?

To blacken his name and reputation to give more justification for his execution later on

What did Darius offer as ransom for his family?

10,000 talents, the territory west of the Euphrates,and the marraige of daughter