Ch-8 Alexander and Porus

Chapter 1: Alexander And Porus

Introduction to Alexander the Great

  • Alexander the Great was the king of Macedonia, an area that corresponds to present-day Greece.

  • He is regarded as one of the most remarkable historical figures due to his ambition to conquer the entire known world.

  • His conquests included vast territories like Asia Minor, Syria, Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Persian Empire.

Invasion of India

  • Alexander's rule extended into the Indus Valley, reaching the deserts of present-day Rajasthan.

  • His invasion of India occurred in 326 BCE, during a period when Northwestern India was fragmented into several kingdoms, each ruled by different leaders who were often in conflict.

Encounter with Ambih and Porus

  • Most Indian kingdoms fell easily to Alexander's advances, including Tuxila, governed by Ambih, who did not resist.

  • In stark contrast, Porus, the ruler of the territory between the Jhelum and Chenam rivers, put up a fierce resistance against Alexander's forces.

The Battle and Its Aftermath

  • Despite his valiant efforts, Porus was ultimately defeated in battle and captured.

  • When brought before Alexander, Porus dignifiedly requested to be treated as a king, responding to Alexander's inquiry about his preferred treatment.

  • Alexander was greatly impressed by Porus’s noble response, leading him to release Porus and restore his territories.

Chapter 2: The Relationship between Alexander and Porus

Formation of a Friendship

  • Following his release, it is generally believed that a friendship developed between Alexander and Porus.

  • This bond was significant during Alexander's campaigns in India.

Continued Campaigns and Withdrawal

  • Alexander continued his march with his army until he reached the river Byas, aiming to conquer the formidable Magadan Empire.

  • However, Alexander’s troops began to feel homesick and were fatigued from the long campaign, leading them to refuse to engage the powerful Magadhan army, forcing Alexander to retreat.

Division of Territory and Legacy

  • Upon returning, Alexander divided the territories under his control into three parts, assigning each to a Greek general.

  • Tragically, Alexander never returned to his homeland; he died in Babylon at the young age of 33, leaving a complex legacy that shaped the history of the regions he conquered.