Alexander’s First Victory (Battle of Granicus)

More than any other ancient military figure, Alexander the Great has served as the model for Western field commanders throughout history. Even today, Alexander’s many contributions to the art of warfare and his feats of generalship continue to warrant study in military academies around the world. Of the four great battles Alexander fought in the course of his brilliant military career, the Battle of the Granicus, fought in May 334 bc, was the first--and the one in which he came closest to failure and death. The Granicus is also worthy of note because it is one of the earliest battles on record that was decided largely by cavalry strength, though coordinated with infantry support.