Show 74 - Mania for Subjugation IV

What you're about to hear is part four What you're about to hear is part four of a multi-part series on Alexander the of a multi-part series on Alexander the of a multi-part series on Alexander the Great, a subject I I've talked about Great, a subject I I've talked about Great, a subject I I've talked about since the very first Hardcore History since the very first Hardcore History since the very first Hardcore History Show, and I've finally tried to get the Show, and I've finally tried to get the Show, and I've finally tried to get the definitive version down. And that would definitive version down. And that would definitive version down. And that would of course include a long conversation of course include a long conversation of course include a long conversation about his father, the military his about his father, the military his about his father, the military his father built, the connection between the father built, the connection between the father built, the connection between the two, and so there's quite a bit of two, and so there's quite a bit of two, and so there's quite a bit of backstory, which is why we're on part backstory, which is why we're on part backstory, which is why we're on part four. Now, if you've heard the other four. Now, if you've heard the other four. Now, if you've heard the other parts and are ready to get started, parts and are ready to get started, parts and are ready to get started, we'll get right to it. If you've missed we'll get right to it. If you've missed we'll get right to it. If you've missed parts one through three and you want to parts one through three and you want to parts one through three and you want to know what happened to get to this point, know what happened to get to this point, know what happened to get to this point, well, check them out. And if you haven't well, check them out. And if you haven't well, check them out. And if you haven't heard those and don't care at all, well, heard those and don't care at all, well, heard those and don't care at all, well, here we go. Part four of Mania for here we go. Part four of Mania for here we go. Part four of Mania for Subjugation. Subjugation. Subjugation. >> December 7th, >> December 7th, >> December 7th, 1941. 1941. 1941. >> It's history. >> It's history. >> It's history. >> A date which will live >> A date which will live >> A date which will live in infamy. in infamy. in infamy. >> That's one small step for man. >> That's one small step for man. >> That's one small step for man. >> The events, >> The events, >> The events, >> one giant leap for mankind.

>> from this time and place. >> from this time and place. >> I take pride in the words ishbin. I'm >> I take pride in the words ishbin. I'm >> I take pride in the words ishbin. I'm the elite drama. the elite drama. the elite drama. >> Mr. Gorbachoff >> Mr. Gorbachoff >> Mr. Gorbachoff tear down this wall. tear down this wall. tear down this wall. >> A6. >> A6. >> A6. Marine 6 Marine 6 Marine 6 >> tower 2 has had a major explosion and >> tower 2 has had a major explosion and >> tower 2 has had a major explosion and what appears to be a complete collapse what appears to be a complete collapse what appears to be a complete collapse surrounding the entire area. surrounding the entire area. surrounding the entire area. >> I welcome this kind of examination >> I welcome this kind of examination >> I welcome this kind of examination because people have got to know whether because people have got to know whether because people have got to know whether or not their president should or not their president should or not their president should >> deep question. I'm not >> deep question. I'm not >> deep question. I'm not >> if we dig deep in our history and our >> if we dig deep in our history and our >> if we dig deep in our history and our doctrine and remember that we are not doctrine and remember that we are not doctrine and remember that we are not descended from fearful men. descended from fearful men. descended from fearful men. >> It's hardcore history. I was thinking the other day I was thinking the other day about when the role of about when the role of about when the role of army commander, war leader, general, army commander, war leader, general, army commander, war leader, general, whatever we want to refer to it as, when whatever we want to refer to it as, when whatever we want to refer to it as, when that started, that started, that started, what was what was the first one of them? what was what was the first one of them? what was what was the first one of them? And I guess we would have to sort of lay And I guess we would have to sort of lay And I guess we would have to sort of lay down some parameters of what we were down some parameters of what we were down some parameters of what we were talking about. But in the way I'm talking about. But in the way I'm talking about. But in the way I'm framing it in my head, I got to think framing it in my head, I got to think framing it in my head, I got to think Neanderthalss had war leaders.

And you think about the relationship And you think about the relationship when the military force that one of when the military force that one of when the military force that one of these people is commanding is small. these people is commanding is small. these people is commanding is small. I mean, I think of these Apache leaders I mean, I think of these Apache leaders I mean, I think of these Apache leaders like Mangas Colorado or Cuchion Negro like Mangas Colorado or Cuchion Negro like Mangas Colorado or Cuchion Negro or Pazago Kabazone. these guys uh would or Pazago Kabazone. these guys uh would or Pazago Kabazone. these guys uh would have known all their warriors and part have known all their warriors and part have known all their warriors and part of the reason they are who they are is of the reason they are who they are is of the reason they are who they are is because there's this bond between them because there's this bond between them because there's this bond between them and trust and a whole bunch of other and trust and a whole bunch of other and trust and a whole bunch of other things. Easy to understand the things. Easy to understand the things. Easy to understand the relationship when it's amongst a small relationship when it's amongst a small relationship when it's amongst a small group like that where everyone knows one group like that where everyone knows one group like that where everyone knows one another. But as armies get larger, another. But as armies get larger, another. But as armies get larger, you know, it's not hard to see that that you know, it's not hard to see that that you know, it's not hard to see that that might be more difficult to maintain that might be more difficult to maintain that might be more difficult to maintain that relationship when you have 60,000 troops relationship when you have 60,000 troops relationship when you have 60,000 troops or something. or something. or something. I mean, and if you're Dwight Eisenhower I mean, and if you're Dwight Eisenhower I mean, and if you're Dwight Eisenhower commanding the Allied forces in Europe commanding the Allied forces in Europe commanding the Allied forces in Europe in the, you know, after D-Day, I mean, in the, you know, after D-Day, I mean, in the, you know, after D-Day, I mean, hard to have a personal relationship hard to have a personal relationship hard to have a personal relationship with the troops, even when you meet with with the troops, even when you meet with with the troops, even when you meet with them, you know, when you have these them, you know, when you have these them, you know, when you have these photo opportunities and and they trust photo opportunities and and they trust photo opportunities and and they trust you to win battles for them and keep you to win battles for them and keep you to win battles for them and keep them safe and all these kinds of things. them safe and all these kinds of things. them safe and all these kinds of things. I mean, so there's one level of I mean, so there's one level of I mean, so there's one level of connection there, but it's not the same connection there, but it's not the same connection there, but it's not the same as when you have this really special as when you have this really special as when you have this really special thing going on. And you see this in the thing going on. And you see this in the thing going on. And you see this in the in the great commanders when the armies in the great commanders when the armies in the great commanders when the armies get very large because they're rarer. I get very large because they're rarer. I get very large because they're rarer. I mean, look at Napoleon's relationship mean, look at Napoleon's relationship mean, look at Napoleon's relationship with his army. I mean, I don't know if with his army. I mean, I don't know if with his army. I mean, I don't know if it really happened this way because it's it really happened this way because it's it really happened this way because it's so freaking dramatic. He's just it's so freaking dramatic. He's just it's so freaking dramatic. He's just it's hard to believe. But I mean, remember hard to believe. But I mean, remember hard to believe. But I mean, remember when Napoleon comes back from his first when Napoleon comes back from his first when Napoleon comes back from his first exile from the island of Alba and he exile from the island of Alba and he exile from the island of Alba and he lands in France with his small little lands in France with his small little lands in France with his small little bodyguard and they start marching and bodyguard and they start marching and bodyguard and they start marching and you know, you can almost feel the worm you know, you can almost feel the worm you know, you can almost feel the worm turning now and he's back and he's turning now and he's back and he's turning now and he's back and he's confronted on the road by I think it's a

confronted on the road by I think it's a confronted on the road by I think it's a battalion battalion battalion of French troops whose orders are to of French troops whose orders are to of French troops whose orders are to stop him. and they're there and they're stop him. and they're there and they're stop him. and they're there and they're armed and at one point they're pointing armed and at one point they're pointing armed and at one point they're pointing their guns and he gets instead of a their guns and he gets instead of a their guns and he gets instead of a battle breaking out he gets off his battle breaking out he gets off his battle breaking out he gets off his horse famously and you know let's hope horse famously and you know let's hope horse famously and you know let's hope truthfully and walks up to the line of truthfully and walks up to the line of truthfully and walks up to the line of men who are aiming at him and says you men who are aiming at him and says you men who are aiming at him and says you know don't you recognize your emperor or know don't you recognize your emperor or know don't you recognize your emperor or something like that something like that something like that and there's this silence and instead of and there's this silence and instead of and there's this silence and instead of firing they you know start yelling viva firing they you know start yelling viva firing they you know start yelling viva emperor and it's it's it's on right but emperor and it's it's it's on right but emperor and it's it's it's on right but I mean that's a that's a special I mean that's a that's a special I mean that's a that's a special relationship where he's got this relationship where he's got this relationship where he's got this connection and none of those troops I connection and none of those troops I connection and none of those troops I think they were all like recent think they were all like recent think they were all like recent recruits, too. It's not like they knew recruits, too. It's not like they knew recruits, too. It's not like they knew him from the, you know, the long wars in him from the, you know, the long wars in him from the, you know, the long wars in Russia or whatever. I mean, that's an Russia or whatever. I mean, that's an Russia or whatever. I mean, that's an institutional loyalty to a general or a institutional loyalty to a general or a institutional loyalty to a general or a emperor in this case, emperor in this case, emperor in this case, but you develop that. but you develop that. but you develop that. I said earlier in the story where we are I said earlier in the story where we are I said earlier in the story where we are in this Alexander the Great tale in this Alexander the Great tale in this Alexander the Great tale that you could have won with his army if that you could have won with his army if that you could have won with his army if you just let it go on autopilot. Well, you just let it go on autopilot. Well, you just let it go on autopilot. Well, up to this point, up to this point, up to this point, remember, even though he's fought with remember, even though he's fought with remember, even though he's fought with this army a bunch now, we're a year into this army a bunch now, we're a year into this army a bunch now, we're a year into his command basically of his dad's army, his command basically of his dad's army, his command basically of his dad's army, and he's really beginning to put his and he's really beginning to put his and he's really beginning to put his stamp on it. And I don't know if you stamp on it. And I don't know if you stamp on it. And I don't know if you believe Aryan or not, but after the believe Aryan or not, but after the believe Aryan or not, but after the battle of the river Granicus, battle of the river Granicus, battle of the river Granicus, he's got Alexander sitting down with the he's got Alexander sitting down with the he's got Alexander sitting down with the troops afterwards and he says some troops afterwards and he says some troops afterwards and he says some famous things about him uh listening to famous things about him uh listening to famous things about him uh listening to their stories and letting them brag all their stories and letting them brag all their stories and letting them brag all they want and asking them about their they want and asking them about their they want and asking them about their injuries and their tales. And he's you

injuries and their tales. And he's you injuries and their tales. And he's you can see a data point here where the can see a data point here where the can see a data point here where the relationship that's going to propel this relationship that's going to propel this relationship that's going to propel this army to do amazing things for this man army to do amazing things for this man army to do amazing things for this man where this relationship is growing. As I where this relationship is growing. As I where this relationship is growing. As I said, it's only been a year, but if you said, it's only been a year, but if you said, it's only been a year, but if you look at a timeline of this guy's career, look at a timeline of this guy's career, look at a timeline of this guy's career, I mean, he had all those battles already I mean, he had all those battles already I mean, he had all those battles already against the so-called barbarians north against the so-called barbarians north against the so-called barbarians north of Macedonia. He had the destruction of of Macedonia. He had the destruction of of Macedonia. He had the destruction of thieves. Now he's got this thieves. Now he's got this thieves. Now he's got this battle of the river Granicus under his battle of the river Granicus under his battle of the river Granicus under his belt. And he and this army are beginning belt. And he and this army are beginning belt. And he and this army are beginning to know one another. And unlike a giant to know one another. And unlike a giant to know one another. And unlike a giant modern force, modern force, modern force, you're not having people coming and you're not having people coming and you're not having people coming and going all the time in terms of people going all the time in terms of people going all the time in terms of people being recycled through the forces so being recycled through the forces so being recycled through the forces so that new people are arriving all the that new people are arriving all the that new people are arriving all the time. Alexander is going to get time. Alexander is going to get time. Alexander is going to get reinforcements from time to time and reinforcements from time to time and reinforcements from time to time and send troops back home from time to time, send troops back home from time to time, send troops back home from time to time, but the majority of this core of this but the majority of this core of this but the majority of this core of this army is going to stay the same. So the army is going to stay the same. So the army is going to stay the same. So the relationship that he's developing with relationship that he's developing with relationship that he's developing with these people gets deeper and deeper these people gets deeper and deeper these people gets deeper and deeper because it's the same people. because it's the same people. because it's the same people. And as we move on in this story, the And as we move on in this story, the And as we move on in this story, the sort of tugofwar between sort of tugofwar between sort of tugofwar between Alexander's father's generals, Alexander's father's generals, Alexander's father's generals, especially Parminio, and Alexander and especially Parminio, and Alexander and especially Parminio, and Alexander and his new cabal of underlings that are his his new cabal of underlings that are his his new cabal of underlings that are his people, is going to start to to show. I people, is going to start to to show. I people, is going to start to to show. I mean, up till now, one could make a case mean, up till now, one could make a case mean, up till now, one could make a case that there was almost an equal amount that there was almost an equal amount that there was almost an equal amount or, you know, 6040 relationship between or, you know, 6040 relationship between or, you know, 6040 relationship between Alexander and Parminio with Alexander at Alexander and Parminio with Alexander at Alexander and Parminio with Alexander at the 60 and Pinio at the 40. But this is the 60 and Pinio at the 40. But this is the 60 and Pinio at the 40. But this is going to change. And you can see it

going to change. And you can see it going to change. And you can see it develop with a big victory like this, develop with a big victory like this, develop with a big victory like this, right? The the credibility goes way up right? The the credibility goes way up right? The the credibility goes way up when you've done this. when you've done this. when you've done this. And he makes sure everybody back in And he makes sure everybody back in And he makes sure everybody back in Greece knows about it because he will Greece knows about it because he will Greece knows about it because he will send back a shipment to Athens. send back a shipment to Athens. send back a shipment to Athens. This is told in Aryan to a shipment that This is told in Aryan to a shipment that This is told in Aryan to a shipment that has 300 suits of Persian armor. has 300 suits of Persian armor. has 300 suits of Persian armor. Battlefield spoils taken off the dead to Battlefield spoils taken off the dead to Battlefield spoils taken off the dead to be placed in the Acropolis be placed in the Acropolis be placed in the Acropolis as a sacrifice as a sacrifice as a sacrifice to Athena. to Athena. to Athena. And on it it says according to Aryan and And on it it says according to Aryan and And on it it says according to Aryan and this would have been there for a long this would have been there for a long this would have been there for a long time. Lots of people would have seen time. Lots of people would have seen time. Lots of people would have seen this. Alexander the son of Philillip and this. Alexander the son of Philillip and this. Alexander the son of Philillip and the Greeks except for the Spartans the Greeks except for the Spartans the Greeks except for the Spartans dedicated these spoils from the dedicated these spoils from the dedicated these spoils from the barbarians occupying Asia. barbarians occupying Asia. barbarians occupying Asia. As we said in the last installment, As we said in the last installment, As we said in the last installment, everything Alexander seems to do here is everything Alexander seems to do here is everything Alexander seems to do here is operating you like three-dimensional operating you like three-dimensional operating you like three-dimensional chess. He's doing a lot with a little.

chess. He's doing a lot with a little. chess. He's doing a lot with a little. that one inscription. Well, that plays that one inscription. Well, that plays that one inscription. Well, that plays right into all of the propaganda that right into all of the propaganda that right into all of the propaganda that he's fighting this war against the he's fighting this war against the he's fighting this war against the Persians as payback for what the Persians as payback for what the Persians as payback for what the Persians did in the Greek and Persian Persians did in the Greek and Persian Persians did in the Greek and Persian wars 150 years previously. Plays right wars 150 years previously. Plays right wars 150 years previously. Plays right into that. He sends the offering to one into that. He sends the offering to one into that. He sends the offering to one of the big two city states that sort of of the big two city states that sort of of the big two city states that sort of made their name in that war, right? It made their name in that war, right? It made their name in that war, right? It was Athens and Sparta. The Athenians was Athens and Sparta. The Athenians was Athens and Sparta. The Athenians fought at the Battle of Marathon so fought at the Battle of Marathon so fought at the Battle of Marathon so famously, made a lot of hay with that famously, made a lot of hay with that famously, made a lot of hay with that ever since. The Spartans, of course, had ever since. The Spartans, of course, had ever since. The Spartans, of course, had that, you know, made for TV moment at that, you know, made for TV moment at that, you know, made for TV moment at the Battle of Thermopoly where 300 of the Battle of Thermopoly where 300 of the Battle of Thermopoly where 300 of them are wiped out, but they hold off them are wiped out, but they hold off them are wiped out, but they hold off the Persians forever. It was more than the Persians forever. It was more than the Persians forever. It was more than 300, of course, but we won't talk about 300, of course, but we won't talk about 300, of course, but we won't talk about that. But that's a famous number that. But that's a famous number that. But that's a famous number associated with that. And how many suits associated with that. And how many suits associated with that. And how many suits of armor did Alexander send back to of armor did Alexander send back to of armor did Alexander send back to Athens? 300. Athens? 300. Athens? 300. And who did he specifically leave out in And who did he specifically leave out in And who did he specifically leave out in the inscription for everybody to see for the inscription for everybody to see for the inscription for everybody to see for long? Well, the Spartans. long? Well, the Spartans. long? Well, the Spartans. Yikes. That's a turning of the knife Yikes. That's a turning of the knife Yikes. That's a turning of the knife right there.

right there. right there. The Athenians must have had mixed The Athenians must have had mixed The Athenians must have had mixed feelings because they would have loved, feelings because they would have loved, feelings because they would have loved, I imagine, to have been honored and had I imagine, to have been honored and had I imagine, to have been honored and had the Spartans shafted by the same honor. the Spartans shafted by the same honor. the Spartans shafted by the same honor. But they don't like Alexander either. So But they don't like Alexander either. So But they don't like Alexander either. So mixed sort of feelings maybe. mixed sort of feelings maybe. mixed sort of feelings maybe. But Alexander's letting everybody know, But Alexander's letting everybody know, But Alexander's letting everybody know, we're here. We've won. We're still we're here. We've won. We're still we're here. We've won. We're still going. going. going. And he sends a bunch of the Greek And he sends a bunch of the Greek And he sends a bunch of the Greek survivors from the battle of the survivors from the battle of the survivors from the battle of the Granicus who fought for the Persians Granicus who fought for the Persians Granicus who fought for the Persians back to Greece in chains as a message back to Greece in chains as a message back to Greece in chains as a message that this better not happen again that this better not happen again that this better not happen again because you know under the terms of our because you know under the terms of our because you know under the terms of our leagues of the Greek thing we are not leagues of the Greek thing we are not leagues of the Greek thing we are not supposed to be fighting against one supposed to be fighting against one supposed to be fighting against one another. This is a war of Greeks against another. This is a war of Greeks against another. This is a war of Greeks against barbarians. Fight on the other side barbarians. Fight on the other side barbarians. Fight on the other side expect to die or come home in chains and expect to die or come home in chains and expect to die or come home in chains and be a slave. be a slave. be a slave. The good news for us after the battle of The good news for us after the battle of The good news for us after the battle of the river Granicus is our two main the river Granicus is our two main the river Granicus is our two main sources, Aryan and Diodoris, who had sources, Aryan and Diodoris, who had sources, Aryan and Diodoris, who had such terrible disagreements about how such terrible disagreements about how such terrible disagreements about how that battle went, get back into line, that battle went, get back into line, that battle went, get back into line, broadly speaking. And so, we're on broadly speaking. And so, we're on broadly speaking. And so, we're on firmer ground for what happens in this firmer ground for what happens in this firmer ground for what happens in this next part of the story. And Alexander's next part of the story. And Alexander's next part of the story. And Alexander's in a consolidation phase here. He has to in a consolidation phase here. He has to in a consolidation phase here. He has to sort of collect his winnings from sort of collect his winnings from sort of collect his winnings from defeating that Persian army, that defeating that Persian army, that defeating that Persian army, that regional version, I guess you could say, regional version, I guess you could say, regional version, I guess you could say, of a Persian field army at the Granicus.

of a Persian field army at the Granicus. of a Persian field army at the Granicus. But he's got to deal with now the cities But he's got to deal with now the cities But he's got to deal with now the cities in Asia Minor, right? Anatolia, in Asia Minor, right? Anatolia, in Asia Minor, right? Anatolia, modern-day Turkey. It's a big area. modern-day Turkey. It's a big area. modern-day Turkey. It's a big area. And I can't help but notice if you zoom And I can't help but notice if you zoom And I can't help but notice if you zoom out and look at the big strategic out and look at the big strategic out and look at the big strategic situation. I mean, he's at a real situation. I mean, he's at a real situation. I mean, he's at a real disadvantage here because he's got a lot disadvantage here because he's got a lot disadvantage here because he's got a lot of work to still do to make sure that of work to still do to make sure that of work to still do to make sure that area is subdued and it's going to area is subdued and it's going to area is subdued and it's going to involve, you know, wearing and tearing involve, you know, wearing and tearing involve, you know, wearing and tearing on the army and all this kind of stuff. on the army and all this kind of stuff. on the army and all this kind of stuff. Meanwhile, the arch foe, the one he Meanwhile, the arch foe, the one he Meanwhile, the arch foe, the one he knows he's going to have to deal with in knows he's going to have to deal with in knows he's going to have to deal with in some huge knockdown dragout battles, is some huge knockdown dragout battles, is some huge knockdown dragout battles, is free to sort of muster up a completely free to sort of muster up a completely free to sort of muster up a completely tan rested and ready army in the tan rested and ready army in the tan rested and ready army in the interior of Persia to throw at him, you interior of Persia to throw at him, you interior of Persia to throw at him, you know, as soon as it's ready to go. Um, know, as soon as it's ready to go. Um, know, as soon as it's ready to go. Um, al here's the thing though, Alexander, al here's the thing though, Alexander, al here's the thing though, Alexander, the I already notice it. Maybe I'm the I already notice it. Maybe I'm the I already notice it. Maybe I'm previewing here, but you can already see previewing here, but you can already see previewing here, but you can already see the dude's energy the dude's energy the dude's energy and the speed. And the speed is and the speed. And the speed is and the speed. And the speed is exhausting. I mean this is where we exhausting. I mean this is where we exhausting. I mean this is where we start to see a differentiation between start to see a differentiation between start to see a differentiation between you know the way Alexander operates and you know the way Alexander operates and you know the way Alexander operates and the way the king some dude remember we the way the king some dude remember we the way the king some dude remember we talked about that last summer the king talked about that last summer the king talked about that last summer the king Tommy boy any other macedonian king you Tommy boy any other macedonian king you Tommy boy any other macedonian king you start to say okay what's different about start to say okay what's different about start to say okay what's different about Alexander the pace and if not now then Alexander the pace and if not now then Alexander the pace and if not now then soon I mean and look I'm a 21st century soon I mean and look I'm a 21st century soon I mean and look I'm a 21st century wimp and I realize people in the ancient wimp and I realize people in the ancient wimp and I realize people in the ancient world walked everywhere and they were world walked everywhere and they were world walked everywhere and they were much more used to this and that and the much more used to this and that and the much more used to this and that and the other thing uh but already the march other thing uh but already the march other thing uh but already the march total are exhausting to me. Um, he's got total are exhausting to me. Um, he's got total are exhausting to me. Um, he's got these guys marching all the time, every

these guys marching all the time, every these guys marching all the time, every day. I mean, he'll go from one city to day. I mean, he'll go from one city to day. I mean, he'll go from one city to another and it sounds like, oh, you another and it sounds like, oh, you another and it sounds like, oh, you just, you know, taking a quick trip to just, you know, taking a quick trip to just, you know, taking a quick trip to the city. It'll be four straight days of the city. It'll be four straight days of the city. It'll be four straight days of marching. He's going to go 167 miles marching. He's going to go 167 miles marching. He's going to go 167 miles between two places. And just don't even between two places. And just don't even between two places. And just don't even think about it. But that's wear and think about it. But that's wear and think about it. But that's wear and tear, isn't it? And the Macedonian army tear, isn't it? And the Macedonian army tear, isn't it? And the Macedonian army is going to be absolutely wonderful at is going to be absolutely wonderful at is going to be absolutely wonderful at this for a very long time. But nobody's this for a very long time. But nobody's this for a very long time. But nobody's got this guy's energy. And again, this got this guy's energy. And again, this got this guy's energy. And again, this is part of what sets him apart. If you is part of what sets him apart. If you is part of what sets him apart. If you have four or five adjectives, you're have four or five adjectives, you're have four or five adjectives, you're allowed to, you know, give each of the allowed to, you know, give each of the allowed to, you know, give each of the great leaders on the Napoleon Alexander great leaders on the Napoleon Alexander great leaders on the Napoleon Alexander type chart. Speed and energy. This guy, type chart. Speed and energy. This guy, type chart. Speed and energy. This guy, it's just already um watching him move it's just already um watching him move it's just already um watching him move as he moves and sends forces like as he moves and sends forces like as he moves and sends forces like Parminio and other detachments all Parminio and other detachments all Parminio and other detachments all around at least the western part right around at least the western part right around at least the western part right now of Anatolia to take surreners and now of Anatolia to take surreners and now of Anatolia to take surreners and submissions by cities. submissions by cities. submissions by cities. the capital of the entire region, the capital of the entire region, the capital of the entire region, Sardis, who's got massive walls and Sardis, who's got massive walls and Sardis, who's got massive walls and could hold out for a long time and also could hold out for a long time and also could hold out for a long time and also has the treasury for the region, just has the treasury for the region, just has the treasury for the region, just surrenders to Alexander. So, there's surrenders to Alexander. So, there's surrenders to Alexander. So, there's some good fortune right there.

some good fortune right there. some good fortune right there. Alexander quickly turns toward the coast Alexander quickly turns toward the coast Alexander quickly turns toward the coast and begins to go down the coastline and begins to go down the coastline and begins to go down the coastline there where all those Ionian Greek there where all those Ionian Greek there where all those Ionian Greek cities are. the ones that were well, cities are. the ones that were well, cities are. the ones that were well, let's be honest, they're one of the main let's be honest, they're one of the main let's be honest, they're one of the main seeds in the entire story of how the seeds in the entire story of how the seeds in the entire story of how the Greeks and Persians first started Greeks and Persians first started Greeks and Persians first started fighting each other all those centuries fighting each other all those centuries fighting each other all those centuries ago. Those are the you know, they're the ago. Those are the you know, they're the ago. Those are the you know, they're the ones who kind of been asking for help ones who kind of been asking for help ones who kind of been asking for help and they have rebellions. And I mean, and they have rebellions. And I mean, and they have rebellions. And I mean, there's Greek plays written about the there's Greek plays written about the there's Greek plays written about the suffering that cities like Mitus, one of suffering that cities like Mitus, one of suffering that cities like Mitus, one of these Ionian Greek cities have gone these Ionian Greek cities have gone these Ionian Greek cities have gone through under Persian rule. That'll make through under Persian rule. That'll make through under Persian rule. That'll make you want to get a little payback, right? you want to get a little payback, right? you want to get a little payback, right? liberate those people, save them. But as liberate those people, save them. But as liberate those people, save them. But as Alexander goes down the coast and his Alexander goes down the coast and his Alexander goes down the coast and his money problems are disappearing as more money problems are disappearing as more money problems are disappearing as more and more places hand over the treasuries and more places hand over the treasuries and more places hand over the treasuries and start paying their tribute that they and start paying their tribute that they and start paying their tribute that they used to give the great king, giving it used to give the great king, giving it used to give the great king, giving it to him instead. Um, as he goes down the to him instead. Um, as he goes down the to him instead. Um, as he goes down the coast and he liberates these cities, it coast and he liberates these cities, it coast and he liberates these cities, it becomes apparent and the ancient sources becomes apparent and the ancient sources becomes apparent and the ancient sources spent a little time on it. So, it's spent a little time on it. So, it's spent a little time on it. So, it's clear that all these cities are are clear that all these cities are are clear that all these cities are are factionalized in terms of their factionalized in terms of their factionalized in terms of their politics. And can't we relate to that?

politics. And can't we relate to that? politics. And can't we relate to that? But they have factions that'll favor a But they have factions that'll favor a But they have factions that'll favor a democracy, factions that'll favor an democracy, factions that'll favor an democracy, factions that'll favor an oligarch, factions that want to, you oligarch, factions that want to, you oligarch, factions that want to, you know, stay loyal to the great king, know, stay loyal to the great king, know, stay loyal to the great king, factions that want to come over to factions that want to come over to factions that want to come over to Alexander. And and it gets murderous Alexander. And and it gets murderous Alexander. And and it gets murderous sometimes. I mean, he shows up at sometimes. I mean, he shows up at sometimes. I mean, he shows up at Ephesus, one of the first cities that he Ephesus, one of the first cities that he Ephesus, one of the first cities that he that he goes into down the coast. And um that he goes into down the coast. And um that he goes into down the coast. And um they're starting to kill each other in they're starting to kill each other in they're starting to kill each other in anticipation of Alexander coming, the anticipation of Alexander coming, the anticipation of Alexander coming, the faction that favors Alexander's killing faction that favors Alexander's killing faction that favors Alexander's killing the people that I mean the people that I mean the people that I mean and in a move that Aryan says is one of and in a move that Aryan says is one of and in a move that Aryan says is one of the high water marks of Alexander's the high water marks of Alexander's the high water marks of Alexander's morality. Uh he comes in and he sort of morality. Uh he comes in and he sort of morality. Uh he comes in and he sort of settles things and he he stops them from settles things and he he stops them from settles things and he he stops them from killing one another. killing one another. killing one another. Very gracious, you know, by later Very gracious, you know, by later Very gracious, you know, by later Alexandrian standards. And um it's it's Alexandrian standards. And um it's it's Alexandrian standards. And um it's it's seen as almost humanitarian. He marches seen as almost humanitarian. He marches seen as almost humanitarian. He marches the army in full parade, we're told, the army in full parade, we're told, the army in full parade, we're told, through the city and everything, through the city and everything, through the city and everything, but then he keeps going down the but then he keeps going down the but then he keeps going down the coastline and runs into Mitus. coastline and runs into Mitus. coastline and runs into Mitus. And Molitus is uncomfortable. It's an And Molitus is uncomfortable. It's an And Molitus is uncomfortable. It's an awkward situation. I think AB Bosworth awkward situation. I think AB Bosworth awkward situation. I think AB Bosworth described it because here's the city described it because here's the city described it because here's the city that should most be the great propaganda that should most be the great propaganda that should most be the great propaganda coup for Alexander to say, "Here we are.

coup for Alexander to say, "Here we are. coup for Alexander to say, "Here we are. We've liberated uh, you know, the city We've liberated uh, you know, the city We've liberated uh, you know, the city from Persian rule, the hated Persians from Persian rule, the hated Persians from Persian rule, the hated Persians who've been so terrible to you. He wrote who've been so terrible to you. He wrote who've been so terrible to you. He wrote plays about it and Molita shuts its plays about it and Molita shuts its plays about it and Molita shuts its doors to Alexander. doors to Alexander. doors to Alexander. Now a good number of histories from a Now a good number of histories from a Now a good number of histories from a long time ago to now uh suggest that the long time ago to now uh suggest that the long time ago to now uh suggest that the remnants although it might have been a remnants although it might have been a remnants although it might have been a lot of the survivors of the battle of lot of the survivors of the battle of lot of the survivors of the battle of the river Granicus are sort of fleeing the river Granicus are sort of fleeing the river Granicus are sort of fleeing and when they get to these cities and when they get to these cities and when they get to these cities they're you know locking the doors and they're you know locking the doors and they're you know locking the doors and stiffening their resistance. Diodoris stiffening their resistance. Diodoris stiffening their resistance. Diodoris has our friend, the Greek movie figure has our friend, the Greek movie figure has our friend, the Greek movie figure that the audience in Greece can relate that the audience in Greece can relate that the audience in Greece can relate to, Menon, to, Menon, to, Menon, you know, in the city of Mitus for 5 you know, in the city of Mitus for 5 you know, in the city of Mitus for 5 seconds before he flees to the next seconds before he flees to the next seconds before he flees to the next city, next big city down the coast. But city, next big city down the coast. But city, next big city down the coast. But no real proof of that. But when no real proof of that. But when no real proof of that. But when Alexander gets to Mitus and they shut Alexander gets to Mitus and they shut Alexander gets to Mitus and they shut the doors, I mean, this is a moment of the doors, I mean, this is a moment of the doors, I mean, this is a moment of well, it's a problem for Alexander, well, it's a problem for Alexander, well, it's a problem for Alexander, let's put it that way. And it's not a let's put it that way. And it's not a let's put it that way. And it's not a problem because he can't handle a siege. problem because he can't handle a siege. problem because he can't handle a siege. I mean, along with the greatest land I mean, along with the greatest land I mean, along with the greatest land army in the world, he's got probably the army in the world, he's got probably the army in the world, he's got probably the greatest siege forces in the world at greatest siege forces in the world at greatest siege forces in the world at this time. Although, let's not rule out this time. Although, let's not rule out this time. Although, let's not rule out the Chinese who are always fantastic at the Chinese who are always fantastic at the Chinese who are always fantastic at that.

that. that. But that's not going to concern him But that's not going to concern him But that's not going to concern him either. The problem is is Molitus, like either. The problem is is Molitus, like either. The problem is is Molitus, like all these Ionian cities on the all these Ionian cities on the all these Ionian cities on the coastline, coastline, coastline, obviously have fantastic harbors. This obviously have fantastic harbors. This obviously have fantastic harbors. This is how they make a living from the sea, is how they make a living from the sea, is how they make a living from the sea, right? And the commerce and everything. right? And the commerce and everything. right? And the commerce and everything. It's going to be the kind of area where It's going to be the kind of area where It's going to be the kind of area where navies are important. And unfortunately, navies are important. And unfortunately, navies are important. And unfortunately, this is the area of Alexander's military this is the area of Alexander's military this is the area of Alexander's military operation where he is weakest. operation where he is weakest. operation where he is weakest. The Persians are not a seafaring people The Persians are not a seafaring people The Persians are not a seafaring people traditionally, but they rule over a traditionally, but they rule over a traditionally, but they rule over a bunch of people who are some of the best bunch of people who are some of the best bunch of people who are some of the best of all time. I mean, any of your top of all time. I mean, any of your top of all time. I mean, any of your top five seafaring peoples in history list five seafaring peoples in history list five seafaring peoples in history list is going to have the Polynesians on it, is going to have the Polynesians on it, is going to have the Polynesians on it, but it's going to have the Phoenetians, but it's going to have the Phoenetians, but it's going to have the Phoenetians, too. And well, guess who controls the too. And well, guess who controls the too. And well, guess who controls the Phoenician fleet? That would be the Phoenician fleet? That would be the Phoenician fleet? That would be the Persians and the Criots. I mean, just Persians and the Criots. I mean, just Persians and the Criots. I mean, just all these wonderful seafaring people in all these wonderful seafaring people in all these wonderful seafaring people in an era where the little things like how an era where the little things like how an era where the little things like how you row and handle your oars and the you row and handle your oars and the you row and handle your oars and the timing, I mean, all that stuff. It is timing, I mean, all that stuff. It is timing, I mean, all that stuff. It is such a specialized art that there's no such a specialized art that there's no such a specialized art that there's no way that Alexander's fleet, even though way that Alexander's fleet, even though way that Alexander's fleet, even though it includes a lot of Greeks who are also it includes a lot of Greeks who are also it includes a lot of Greeks who are also pretty darn good at seafaring, are going pretty darn good at seafaring, are going pretty darn good at seafaring, are going to be able to compete with that fleet in to be able to compete with that fleet in to be able to compete with that fleet in a qualitative sense. And the problem is a qualitative sense. And the problem is a qualitative sense. And the problem is is that they're absolutely dwarfed in a is that they're absolutely dwarfed in a is that they're absolutely dwarfed in a quantitative sense. 400 or so Persian quantitative sense. 400 or so Persian quantitative sense. 400 or so Persian ships allegedly to about 160 that ships allegedly to about 160 that ships allegedly to about 160 that Alexander has trying to deal with the Alexander has trying to deal with the Alexander has trying to deal with the city surrounded on three sides by water.

city surrounded on three sides by water. city surrounded on three sides by water. And we see Alexander and his proverbial And we see Alexander and his proverbial And we see Alexander and his proverbial speed come into play again. And the the speed come into play again. And the the speed come into play again. And the the hard thing when you're looking at it 23 hard thing when you're looking at it 23 hard thing when you're looking at it 23 or 2400 years later is we sort of give or 2400 years later is we sort of give or 2400 years later is we sort of give Alexander the credit for everything. I Alexander the credit for everything. I Alexander the credit for everything. I mean, uh, his admiral moves quickly, so mean, uh, his admiral moves quickly, so mean, uh, his admiral moves quickly, so it's Alexander's fault. Well, maybe it it's Alexander's fault. Well, maybe it it's Alexander's fault. Well, maybe it is, is, is, but his admiral takes 160 or whatever it but his admiral takes 160 or whatever it but his admiral takes 160 or whatever it is ships, and what's the old civil war is ships, and what's the old civil war is ships, and what's the old civil war line? Gets there first with the mostest. line? Gets there first with the mostest. line? Gets there first with the mostest. Well, he gets there first with the Well, he gets there first with the Well, he gets there first with the least. And in the particular constraints least. And in the particular constraints least. And in the particular constraints of you know this area of naval of you know this area of naval of you know this area of naval operations that's enough operations that's enough operations that's enough because there are a couple of key because there are a couple of key because there are a couple of key islands that sort of wall off access to islands that sort of wall off access to islands that sort of wall off access to the inner part of the port and the city the inner part of the port and the city the inner part of the port and the city and everything you would want to do if and everything you would want to do if and everything you would want to do if you wanted to come in as a Persian fleet you wanted to come in as a Persian fleet you wanted to come in as a Persian fleet and help your Persian city. Well, that and help your Persian city. Well, that and help your Persian city. Well, that area is going to be walled off by these area is going to be walled off by these area is going to be walled off by these islands and Alexander takes possession islands and Alexander takes possession islands and Alexander takes possession of those islands because he gets there of those islands because he gets there of those islands because he gets there first. first. first. drops 4,000 or so thrations on one of drops 4,000 or so thrations on one of drops 4,000 or so thrations on one of the main ones to make sure it's occupied the main ones to make sure it's occupied the main ones to make sure it's occupied and then takes his smaller fleet and and then takes his smaller fleet and and then takes his smaller fleet and faces it outward with the prow sticking faces it outward with the prow sticking faces it outward with the prow sticking outward sort of ship to ship to ship in outward sort of ship to ship to ship in outward sort of ship to ship to ship in a like a long line barring entrance to a like a long line barring entrance to a like a long line barring entrance to that area and in a way if you want to that area and in a way if you want to that area and in a way if you want to visualize it turning it into like a mini visualize it turning it into like a mini visualize it turning it into like a mini passive thermopoly and the Persian fleet passive thermopoly and the Persian fleet passive thermopoly and the Persian fleet bigger though it is can't get into the bigger though it is can't get into the bigger though it is can't get into the key harbor area to do anything to help key harbor area to do anything to help key harbor area to do anything to help to resupply by whatever. And Alexander

to resupply by whatever. And Alexander to resupply by whatever. And Alexander gets a gets a gets a visit from someone representing the visit from someone representing the visit from someone representing the leadership of the city. According to leadership of the city. According to leadership of the city. According to Aryan, the mercenaries are part of the Aryan, the mercenaries are part of the Aryan, the mercenaries are part of the people in charge. And they offer people in charge. And they offer people in charge. And they offer Alexander an arrangement. And it seems Alexander an arrangement. And it seems Alexander an arrangement. And it seems like the perfect kind of arrangement if like the perfect kind of arrangement if like the perfect kind of arrangement if you're trying to save your skin from you're trying to save your skin from you're trying to save your skin from heavy duty punishment by the great king heavy duty punishment by the great king heavy duty punishment by the great king and at the same time not be punished by and at the same time not be punished by and at the same time not be punished by Alexander. They they essentially do what Alexander. They they essentially do what Alexander. They they essentially do what the great Voldemar Heckle says is a the great Voldemar Heckle says is a the great Voldemar Heckle says is a neutrality proposal. How about we let neutrality proposal. How about we let neutrality proposal. How about we let you go into the city and use the harbor you go into the city and use the harbor you go into the city and use the harbor and let the great king do that, too? and let the great king do that, too? and let the great king do that, too? Alexander just says, "Go back in your Alexander just says, "Go back in your Alexander just says, "Go back in your city and prepare to be assaulted." Now, Aryan has a story that he tells Now, Aryan has a story that he tells that's supposed to happen right before that's supposed to happen right before that's supposed to happen right before Alexander meets with this representative Alexander meets with this representative Alexander meets with this representative of the city leaders. And of course, it of the city leaders. And of course, it of the city leaders. And of course, it involves one of those discussions with involves one of those discussions with involves one of those discussions with his top general, his marshall, Parminio.

his top general, his marshall, Parminio. his top general, his marshall, Parminio. And we've seen this movie before, And we've seen this movie before, And we've seen this movie before, haven't we? Where he and Palminio haven't we? Where he and Palminio haven't we? Where he and Palminio disagree over what to do at the battle disagree over what to do at the battle disagree over what to do at the battle of the Granicus, remember? Pinio told of the Granicus, remember? Pinio told of the Granicus, remember? Pinio told Alexander to wait, according to Aryan Alexander to wait, according to Aryan Alexander to wait, according to Aryan anyway, and Alexander said, "We can't anyway, and Alexander said, "We can't anyway, and Alexander said, "We can't wait and full steam ahead." Now the wait and full steam ahead." Now the wait and full steam ahead." Now the positions are inexplicably reversed or positions are inexplicably reversed or positions are inexplicably reversed or maybe completely understandably reversed maybe completely understandably reversed maybe completely understandably reversed depending on how you want to look at it. depending on how you want to look at it. depending on how you want to look at it. But tells Alexander he should be But tells Alexander he should be But tells Alexander he should be fighting a naval battle and Alexander fighting a naval battle and Alexander fighting a naval battle and Alexander says no. says no. says no. Little bit of role reversal there but Little bit of role reversal there but Little bit of role reversal there but here's the way Aryan puts it in the here's the way Aryan puts it in the here's the way Aryan puts it in the Aubry Dellancor translation of his work. Aubry Dellancor translation of his work. Aubry Dellancor translation of his work. Quote, Quote, Quote, "The Persians had about 400 ships, but "The Persians had about 400 ships, but "The Persians had about 400 ships, but Parmeno, in spite of their numerical Parmeno, in spite of their numerical Parmeno, in spite of their numerical superiority, urged Alexander to engage. superiority, urged Alexander to engage. superiority, urged Alexander to engage. He did undoubtedly believe that a sea He did undoubtedly believe that a sea He did undoubtedly believe that a sea fight would go in favor of the Greeks, fight would go in favor of the Greeks, fight would go in favor of the Greeks, but the real reason for his confidence but the real reason for his confidence but the real reason for his confidence was a sign from heaven, an eagle, which was a sign from heaven, an eagle, which was a sign from heaven, an eagle, which had been seen on the beach just a stern had been seen on the beach just a stern had been seen on the beach just a stern of Alexander's ships." End quote. I love of Alexander's ships." End quote. I love of Alexander's ships." End quote. I love this because this is why we all love this because this is why we all love this because this is why we all love ancient history, right? But as we'd said ancient history, right? But as we'd said ancient history, right? But as we'd said earlier, these sources are so long ago, earlier, these sources are so long ago, earlier, these sources are so long ago, even though they're a long time after even though they're a long time after even though they're a long time after Alexander, that they still all kind of Alexander, that they still all kind of Alexander, that they still all kind of believe this stuff. So, this is a believe this stuff. So, this is a believe this stuff. So, this is a legitimate argumentative point for legitimate argumentative point for legitimate argumentative point for Parminio to make as far as Aryan's Parminio to make as far as Aryan's Parminio to make as far as Aryan's concerned. Hey, saw an eagle, man. What

concerned. Hey, saw an eagle, man. What concerned. Hey, saw an eagle, man. What do you want him to do? do you want him to do? do you want him to do? But there are some practical realities, But there are some practical realities, But there are some practical realities, too. Aryan continues, quote, too. Aryan continues, quote, too. Aryan continues, quote, he, meaning Parminio, pointed out that a he, meaning Parminio, pointed out that a he, meaning Parminio, pointed out that a victory in present circumstances would victory in present circumstances would victory in present circumstances would be of great strategic advantage, while a be of great strategic advantage, while a be of great strategic advantage, while a defeat would not be very serious, as defeat would not be very serious, as defeat would not be very serious, as Persia, in any case, had command of the Persia, in any case, had command of the Persia, in any case, had command of the sea. He was fully prepared, he said, to sea. He was fully prepared, he said, to sea. He was fully prepared, he said, to go aboard himself and share the perils go aboard himself and share the perils go aboard himself and share the perils of the day." End quote. I can't help but of the day." End quote. I can't help but of the day." End quote. I can't help but think of like athletes, you know, who I think of like athletes, you know, who I think of like athletes, you know, who I guess they never gave up the sport if guess they never gave up the sport if guess they never gave up the sport if we're using Parmenios as an analogy we're using Parmenios as an analogy we're using Parmenios as an analogy here, but I'm thinking of like these here, but I'm thinking of like these here, but I'm thinking of like these hockey players like Gordy How or hockey players like Gordy How or hockey players like Gordy How or something coming back at really heavy something coming back at really heavy something coming back at really heavy duty ages and trying to get in there and duty ages and trying to get in there and duty ages and trying to get in there and mix it up physically with the mix it up physically with the mix it up physically with the youngsters. Um, youngsters. Um, youngsters. Um, Parinia's going to get on that I Parinia's going to get on that I Parinia's going to get on that I mean, there these dudes were kind of mean, there these dudes were kind of mean, there these dudes were kind of amazing. Um, but anyway, so he says to amazing. Um, but anyway, so he says to amazing. Um, but anyway, so he says to Alexander, I'll go do it myself. And Alexander, I'll go do it myself. And Alexander, I'll go do it myself. And this time Alexander's the one being this time Alexander's the one being this time Alexander's the one being cautious and Aryan has him saying quote.

cautious and Aryan has him saying quote. cautious and Aryan has him saying quote. Alexander replied that Parinio was Alexander replied that Parinio was Alexander replied that Parinio was mistaken and that he'd wrongly mistaken and that he'd wrongly mistaken and that he'd wrongly interpreted the omen. Let me stop here interpreted the omen. Let me stop here interpreted the omen. Let me stop here and point out that once again it's an and point out that once again it's an and point out that once again it's an argument point. Alexander has to address argument point. Alexander has to address argument point. Alexander has to address the omen thing. You got the you got the the omen thing. You got the you got the the omen thing. You got the you got the omen wrong. omen wrong. omen wrong. Aryan continues, quote, "In the first Aryan continues, quote, "In the first Aryan continues, quote, "In the first place," this is Alexander talking, "it place," this is Alexander talking, "it place," this is Alexander talking, "it was absurd to rush blindly into a naval was absurd to rush blindly into a naval was absurd to rush blindly into a naval engagement against greatly superior engagement against greatly superior engagement against greatly superior forces and with an untrained fleet forces and with an untrained fleet forces and with an untrained fleet against the highly trained Cyprian and against the highly trained Cyprian and against the highly trained Cyprian and Phoenician crews. The sea, moreover, was Phoenician crews. The sea, moreover, was Phoenician crews. The sea, moreover, was a tricky thing. One could not trust it, a tricky thing. One could not trust it, a tricky thing. One could not trust it, and he was not going to risk making a and he was not going to risk making a and he was not going to risk making a present to the Persians of all the skill present to the Persians of all the skill present to the Persians of all the skill and courage of his men. As to defeat, it and courage of his men. As to defeat, it and courage of his men. As to defeat, it would be very serious indeed and would would be very serious indeed and would would be very serious indeed and would affect profoundly the general attitude affect profoundly the general attitude affect profoundly the general attitude to the war in its early stages. Above to the war in its early stages. Above to the war in its early stages. Above all, by encouraging the Greeks to revolt all, by encouraging the Greeks to revolt all, by encouraging the Greeks to revolt the moment they got news of a Persian the moment they got news of a Persian the moment they got news of a Persian success at sea. End quote. So, some success at sea. End quote. So, some success at sea. End quote. So, some logical points we would say in addition logical points we would say in addition logical points we would say in addition to the um you know omen stuff, but then to the um you know omen stuff, but then to the um you know omen stuff, but then according to Aryan again who believes according to Aryan again who believes according to Aryan again who believes this too, Alexander goes back to the this too, Alexander goes back to the this too, Alexander goes back to the omen. You know, don't get me wrong here.

omen. You know, don't get me wrong here. omen. You know, don't get me wrong here. the omen's important, but you've the omen's important, but you've the omen's important, but you've misinterpreted and Aryan says, quote. misinterpreted and Aryan says, quote. misinterpreted and Aryan says, quote. Secondly, having given his reasons for Secondly, having given his reasons for Secondly, having given his reasons for not risking an engagement, he went on to not risking an engagement, he went on to not risking an engagement, he went on to say that his interpretation of the omen say that his interpretation of the omen say that his interpretation of the omen was different from Parmenios. The was different from Parmenios. The was different from Parmenios. The appearance of the eagle was without appearance of the eagle was without appearance of the eagle was without doubt a favorable sign, but the fact doubt a favorable sign, but the fact doubt a favorable sign, but the fact that it had been seen on shore surely that it had been seen on shore surely that it had been seen on shore surely indicated that it was his army, not his indicated that it was his army, not his indicated that it was his army, not his navy, which would render the Persian navy, which would render the Persian navy, which would render the Persian fleet powerless. he would, as it were, fleet powerless. he would, as it were, fleet powerless. he would, as it were, win his sea battle from the land." End win his sea battle from the land." End win his sea battle from the land." End quote. quote. quote. So, this is kind of a cool and at the So, this is kind of a cool and at the So, this is kind of a cool and at the same time controversial idea on same time controversial idea on same time controversial idea on Alexander's part to deal with the fact Alexander's part to deal with the fact Alexander's part to deal with the fact he doesn't have a fleet, you know, that he doesn't have a fleet, you know, that he doesn't have a fleet, you know, that can beat his opponent. What do you do can beat his opponent. What do you do can beat his opponent. What do you do then? Well, his ideas sort of revolves then? Well, his ideas sort of revolves then? Well, his ideas sort of revolves around around around ancient naval warfare in a way that we ancient naval warfare in a way that we ancient naval warfare in a way that we need to take a second and understand it. need to take a second and understand it. need to take a second and understand it. Ancient naval warfare deals with the Ancient naval warfare deals with the Ancient naval warfare deals with the same thing naval warfare always deals same thing naval warfare always deals same thing naval warfare always deals with, which is, you know, the range a with, which is, you know, the range a with, which is, you know, the range a fleet has, right? How far away from its fleet has, right? How far away from its fleet has, right? How far away from its base or between bases can it go? I mean, base or between bases can it go? I mean, base or between bases can it go? I mean, look at the whole uh need to enex look at the whole uh need to enex look at the whole uh need to enex territories all over the world in the territories all over the world in the territories all over the world in the late 19th century. So, you had coing late 19th century. So, you had coing late 19th century. So, you had coing stations for your fleets, right? Well, stations for your fleets, right? Well, stations for your fleets, right? Well, in this era, they can't go very far at in this era, they can't go very far at in this era, they can't go very far at all. In general, these um navies from all. In general, these um navies from all. In general, these um navies from the ancient world, these triams and the ancient world, these triams and the ancient world, these triams and everything, they would find a place to everything, they would find a place to everything, they would find a place to camp every night, pull the ships up onto camp every night, pull the ships up onto camp every night, pull the ships up onto the beach, the crews would camp and eat the beach, the crews would camp and eat the beach, the crews would camp and eat and find water then. So, if the Persian

and find water then. So, if the Persian and find water then. So, if the Persian fleet, for example, wants to leave from fleet, for example, wants to leave from fleet, for example, wants to leave from Egypt to operate, you know, in the area Egypt to operate, you know, in the area Egypt to operate, you know, in the area that's now the Turkish coast, um it that's now the Turkish coast, um it that's now the Turkish coast, um it can't go from Egypt to there. It's going can't go from Egypt to there. It's going can't go from Egypt to there. It's going to go point to point to point along the to go point to point to point along the to go point to point to point along the coastline all the way up camping every coastline all the way up camping every coastline all the way up camping every night, you know, sort of at sundown. If night, you know, sort of at sundown. If night, you know, sort of at sundown. If you take away those areas where they can you take away those areas where they can you take away those areas where they can camp, well, they have to go farther and camp, well, they have to go farther and camp, well, they have to go farther and farther away, right? If Alexander is farther away, right? If Alexander is farther away, right? If Alexander is going to send forces to take all the going to send forces to take all the going to send forces to take all the possible areas that would be a good possible areas that would be a good possible areas that would be a good landing site for the Persian fleet, they landing site for the Persian fleet, they landing site for the Persian fleet, they have to camp farther away. And the range have to camp farther away. And the range have to camp farther away. And the range between this new camp away from between this new camp away from between this new camp away from Alexander's troops and where you want Alexander's troops and where you want Alexander's troops and where you want that fleet, maybe right outside this that fleet, maybe right outside this that fleet, maybe right outside this city Alexander's trying to attack, is city Alexander's trying to attack, is city Alexander's trying to attack, is too far. can't get to and back to the too far. can't get to and back to the too far. can't get to and back to the base in time. I mean, he's basically base in time. I mean, he's basically base in time. I mean, he's basically curtailed their available, you know, curtailed their available, you know, curtailed their available, you know, area of operations. And this is area of operations. And this is area of operations. And this is profoundly demoralizing to the defenders profoundly demoralizing to the defenders profoundly demoralizing to the defenders in the city when they see it. And in the city when they see it. And in the city when they see it. And Alexander seems to have very little Alexander seems to have very little Alexander seems to have very little trouble with this city. If you go read a trouble with this city. If you go read a trouble with this city. If you go read a timeline of his career, the timeline timeline of his career, the timeline timeline of his career, the timeline always makes it sound like this siege always makes it sound like this siege always makes it sound like this siege lasted something like a month. But when lasted something like a month. But when lasted something like a month. But when you dive deep into it, you realize, you dive deep into it, you realize, you dive deep into it, you realize, well, that's an assumption sort of made well, that's an assumption sort of made well, that's an assumption sort of made by the fact that it takes a month out of by the fact that it takes a month out of by the fact that it takes a month out of Alexander's, you know, sort of calendar Alexander's, you know, sort of calendar Alexander's, you know, sort of calendar here. But that doesn't mean the siege here. But that doesn't mean the siege here. But that doesn't mean the siege itself did. And you get a real sense itself did. And you get a real sense itself did. And you get a real sense when you read the sources that once he when you read the sources that once he when you read the sources that once he brought up the siege engines, it didn't brought up the siege engines, it didn't brought up the siege engines, it didn't take very long at all. And he's got all take very long at all. And he's got all take very long at all. And he's got all the good ones. He's got stonethrowers.

the good ones. He's got stonethrowers. the good ones. He's got stonethrowers. He's got rams. He's got underminers. He's got rams. He's got underminers. He's got rams. He's got underminers. He's got the towers where you can shoot He's got the towers where you can shoot He's got the towers where you can shoot down on the walls. It doesn't seem like down on the walls. It doesn't seem like down on the walls. It doesn't seem like it's going to take very long. Aryan and it's going to take very long. Aryan and it's going to take very long. Aryan and Diodoris both have accounts. Diodoris Diodoris both have accounts. Diodoris Diodoris both have accounts. Diodoris says Menon was there, so Alexander had says Menon was there, so Alexander had says Menon was there, so Alexander had to attack the city. Aryan doesn't to attack the city. Aryan doesn't to attack the city. Aryan doesn't mention Menon at all, mention Menon at all, mention Menon at all, but says that um well, why don't we just but says that um well, why don't we just but says that um well, why don't we just quote the Martin Hammond translation of quote the Martin Hammond translation of quote the Martin Hammond translation of Aryan and let the you know ancient Aryan and let the you know ancient Aryan and let the you know ancient writer explain it for himself? And he writer explain it for himself? And he writer explain it for himself? And he says, quote, he meaning Alexander says, quote, he meaning Alexander says, quote, he meaning Alexander personally supervised the application of personally supervised the application of personally supervised the application of siege engines to the walls. And after siege engines to the walls. And after siege engines to the walls. And after quickly demolishing a section of wall quickly demolishing a section of wall quickly demolishing a section of wall and weakening a longer stretch, he and weakening a longer stretch, he and weakening a longer stretch, he brought up his army ready to go over brought up his army ready to go over brought up his army ready to go over where the wall had been broken down or where the wall had been broken down or where the wall had been broken down or shaken loose. All this was shadowed by shaken loose. All this was shadowed by shaken loose. All this was shadowed by the Persians from he's talking about the the Persians from he's talking about the the Persians from he's talking about the fleet, right, that's now farther away fleet, right, that's now farther away fleet, right, that's now farther away because Alexander's forces captured all because Alexander's forces captured all because Alexander's forces captured all the good places to land who could be the good places to land who could be the good places to land who could be little more than spectators of the siege little more than spectators of the siege little more than spectators of the siege of their friends and allies. End quote.

of their friends and allies. End quote. of their friends and allies. End quote. Then he says that the Macedonian admiral Then he says that the Macedonian admiral Then he says that the Macedonian admiral uh brings the fleet up close to the uh brings the fleet up close to the uh brings the fleet up close to the harbor. When the people of Molita see harbor. When the people of Molita see harbor. When the people of Molita see this, it sort of uh breaks their spirit this, it sort of uh breaks their spirit this, it sort of uh breaks their spirit and they start running. and they start running. and they start running. Quote, "The Melians and the mercenaries Quote, "The Melians and the mercenaries Quote, "The Melians and the mercenaries were now threatened by the Macedonians were now threatened by the Macedonians were now threatened by the Macedonians on all sides. Some of them threw on all sides. Some of them threw on all sides. Some of them threw themselves into the sea and paddled on themselves into the sea and paddled on themselves into the sea and paddled on their upturned shields to an unnamed their upturned shields to an unnamed their upturned shields to an unnamed island facing the city. Others boarded island facing the city. Others boarded island facing the city. Others boarded small boats and desperately tried to small boats and desperately tried to small boats and desperately tried to outrun the Macedonian triams, but were outrun the Macedonian triams, but were outrun the Macedonian triams, but were caught by the triams at the harbor caught by the triams at the harbor caught by the triams at the harbor mouth. Most of them were killed in the mouth. Most of them were killed in the mouth. Most of them were killed in the city itself." End quote. Now, somebody city itself." End quote. Now, somebody city itself." End quote. Now, somebody else might have allowed the 300 or so else might have allowed the 300 or so else might have allowed the 300 or so mercenaries that had gotten onto a very, mercenaries that had gotten onto a very, mercenaries that had gotten onto a very, very difficult to attack island to just very difficult to attack island to just very difficult to attack island to just sit there and rot. But Alexander being sit there and rot. But Alexander being sit there and rot. But Alexander being Alexander has got to take it. And he Alexander has got to take it. And he Alexander has got to take it. And he takes, according to Aryan, his boats takes, according to Aryan, his boats takes, according to Aryan, his boats with ladders sort of strapped to them so with ladders sort of strapped to them so with ladders sort of strapped to them so that they could swing the ladders onto that they could swing the ladders onto that they could swing the ladders onto the rocky sheer sides of these islands the rocky sheer sides of these islands the rocky sheer sides of these islands to kill the last 300 mercenaries on to kill the last 300 mercenaries on to kill the last 300 mercenaries on there before Alexander decides they've there before Alexander decides they've there before Alexander decides they've been very brave and maybe he should just been very brave and maybe he should just been very brave and maybe he should just offer to bring them into his army.

offer to bring them into his army. offer to bring them into his army. The people of Molita show up carrying The people of Molita show up carrying The people of Molita show up carrying olive branches, the traditional token of olive branches, the traditional token of olive branches, the traditional token of uh supplication. and they're basically uh supplication. and they're basically uh supplication. and they're basically begging for their lives. They have some begging for their lives. They have some begging for their lives. They have some things working in their favor though, as things working in their favor though, as things working in their favor though, as several of the modern historians point several of the modern historians point several of the modern historians point out. Um the fact that, as we said, Mitus out. Um the fact that, as we said, Mitus out. Um the fact that, as we said, Mitus was so much a part of the reasons for was so much a part of the reasons for was so much a part of the reasons for this war and and their suffering against this war and and their suffering against this war and and their suffering against the Persians have been so played up over the Persians have been so played up over the Persians have been so played up over the years that um well, they were the years that um well, they were the years that um well, they were forgiven. Alexander basically said, forgiven. Alexander basically said, forgiven. Alexander basically said, "You're okay." They kill all the "You're okay." They kill all the "You're okay." They kill all the defenders, though. defenders, though. defenders, though. Did a deep dive trying to figure out how Did a deep dive trying to figure out how Did a deep dive trying to figure out how he did that. What's the mechanism for he did that. What's the mechanism for he did that. What's the mechanism for Alexander doing something like that? And Alexander doing something like that? And Alexander doing something like that? And I couldn't find anything good. The I couldn't find anything good. The I couldn't find anything good. The Mongols supposedly, as we've said Mongols supposedly, as we've said Mongols supposedly, as we've said before, had a system. before, had a system. before, had a system. Every trooper gets uh several people Every trooper gets uh several people Every trooper gets uh several people whose job it is to kill, right? So maybe whose job it is to kill, right? So maybe whose job it is to kill, right? So maybe you give 30,000 men, 12 people each, and you give 30,000 men, 12 people each, and you give 30,000 men, 12 people each, and it's a rather efficient affair. And then it's a rather efficient affair. And then it's a rather efficient affair. And then you count the years afterwards to make you count the years afterwards to make you count the years afterwards to make sure it was all done. sure it was all done. sure it was all done. What I looked up seemed to suggest that What I looked up seemed to suggest that What I looked up seemed to suggest that maybe Alexander just used his army as a maybe Alexander just used his army as a maybe Alexander just used his army as a giant sort of executing mechanism, giant sort of executing mechanism, giant sort of executing mechanism, cornered enemy troops in a part of town cornered enemy troops in a part of town cornered enemy troops in a part of town or something and then just attacked them or something and then just attacked them or something and then just attacked them from all sides. No good answers, but from all sides. No good answers, but from all sides. No good answers, but he's going to do this a lot. And so he's going to do this a lot. And so he's going to do this a lot. And so wondering, you know, exactly how the wondering, you know, exactly how the wondering, you know, exactly how the physics of a giant mass killing occurred physics of a giant mass killing occurred physics of a giant mass killing occurred when Alexander did it is something well when Alexander did it is something well when Alexander did it is something well that we'll wonder about again in the that we'll wonder about again in the that we'll wonder about again in the future. Bottom line though is he takes future. Bottom line though is he takes future. Bottom line though is he takes Molitus. Doesn't seem to take too long.

Molitus. Doesn't seem to take too long. Molitus. Doesn't seem to take too long. It was fascinating to watch how the Navy It was fascinating to watch how the Navy It was fascinating to watch how the Navy uh situation was handled. And at this uh situation was handled. And at this uh situation was handled. And at this point in the story, Alexander decides to point in the story, Alexander decides to point in the story, Alexander decides to disband his navy. disband his navy. disband his navy. This is one of the most controversial This is one of the most controversial This is one of the most controversial decisions of Alexander's career as you decisions of Alexander's career as you decisions of Alexander's career as you Alexander fans already know Alexander fans already know Alexander fans already know and apparently was being questioned in and apparently was being questioned in and apparently was being questioned in antiquity. I mean, Diodoris is talking antiquity. I mean, Diodoris is talking antiquity. I mean, Diodoris is talking about it and that's he wrote during like about it and that's he wrote during like about it and that's he wrote during like Julius Caesar's time, which is hundreds Julius Caesar's time, which is hundreds Julius Caesar's time, which is hundreds of years after Alexander, but you get of years after Alexander, but you get of years after Alexander, but you get the point. It's been debated a long the point. It's been debated a long the point. It's been debated a long time. Is this the right move or not? time. Is this the right move or not? time. Is this the right move or not? Modern day historians have different Modern day historians have different Modern day historians have different opinions, too. Uh, and I honestly don't opinions, too. Uh, and I honestly don't opinions, too. Uh, and I honestly don't know what to think myself. I'm really I know what to think myself. I'm really I know what to think myself. I'm really I mean, I'm just watching from afar mean, I'm just watching from afar mean, I'm just watching from afar because there's good arguments on both because there's good arguments on both because there's good arguments on both sides, and without being able to get sides, and without being able to get sides, and without being able to get someone like, you know, Tommy up here on someone like, you know, Tommy up here on someone like, you know, Tommy up here on the stand under oath, it's going to be the stand under oath, it's going to be the stand under oath, it's going to be difficult to figure out. What appeals to me in terms of like What appeals to me in terms of like trying to to sense what's going on is I trying to to sense what's going on is I trying to to sense what's going on is I was reading some of the good histories was reading some of the good histories was reading some of the good histories that I was I'm using as sources here and that I was I'm using as sources here and that I was I'm using as sources here and they were talking about the difference they were talking about the difference they were talking about the difference between you know Alexander dealing with between you know Alexander dealing with between you know Alexander dealing with the Persian fleet close up when it's the Persian fleet close up when it's the Persian fleet close up when it's with him like at Mitus versus what with him like at Mitus versus what with him like at Mitus versus what happens if the Persian fleet just goes happens if the Persian fleet just goes happens if the Persian fleet just goes and causes trouble elsewhere. That's and causes trouble elsewhere. That's and causes trouble elsewhere. That's when you're going to miss a navy for when you're going to miss a navy for when you're going to miss a navy for example, example, example, right? What if they go start causing right? What if they go start causing right? What if they go start causing problems in Greece? Or what if they sort problems in Greece? Or what if they sort problems in Greece? Or what if they sort of go behind your flank and retake stuff of go behind your flank and retake stuff of go behind your flank and retake stuff you've already taken, which is actually you've already taken, which is actually you've already taken, which is actually what's going to happen?

what's going to happen? what's going to happen? But some of the other arguments have to But some of the other arguments have to But some of the other arguments have to do with the fact that what Alexander's do with the fact that what Alexander's do with the fact that what Alexander's fleet is heavily outnumbered. It's out fleet is heavily outnumbered. It's out fleet is heavily outnumbered. It's out quality as well. Do you just want it to quality as well. Do you just want it to quality as well. Do you just want it to stay there until the Persians catch it stay there until the Persians catch it stay there until the Persians catch it and kill it? So, a lot of arguments, but and kill it? So, a lot of arguments, but and kill it? So, a lot of arguments, but he he disbands the fleet and he keeps he he disbands the fleet and he keeps he he disbands the fleet and he keeps like 20 uh triams and supply ships to like 20 uh triams and supply ships to like 20 uh triams and supply ships to sort of just, you know, for food and sort of just, you know, for food and sort of just, you know, for food and they carry the siege train and then he they carry the siege train and then he they carry the siege train and then he keeps going down the coast and this keeps going down the coast and this keeps going down the coast and this again is a problem with your navy also again is a problem with your navy also again is a problem with your navy also not being there. You're fighting a bunch not being there. You're fighting a bunch not being there. You're fighting a bunch of uh coastal battles and all these of uh coastal battles and all these of uh coastal battles and all these cities like Mitus have harbors and cities like Mitus have harbors and cities like Mitus have harbors and they're able to be resupplied from the they're able to be resupplied from the they're able to be resupplied from the sea and whatnot. And the next city he's sea and whatnot. And the next city he's sea and whatnot. And the next city he's going to run into, the next big one's going to run into, the next big one's going to run into, the next big one's going to be the same way, but worse. going to be the same way, but worse. going to be the same way, but worse. you know, like Mitus only more so. Aryan you know, like Mitus only more so. Aryan you know, like Mitus only more so. Aryan and Diodoris both say that he kind of and Diodoris both say that he kind of and Diodoris both say that he kind of takes some cities in uh in between Mitus takes some cities in uh in between Mitus takes some cities in uh in between Mitus and Hikarnasses, which is the big city and Hikarnasses, which is the big city and Hikarnasses, which is the big city in the distance. Some of them come over in the distance. Some of them come over in the distance. Some of them come over to him. There's this famous incident to him. There's this famous incident to him. There's this famous incident where this this queen who's been out of where this this queen who's been out of where this this queen who's been out of power comes to Alexander, you know, on power comes to Alexander, you know, on power comes to Alexander, you know, on the road between cities and basically, the road between cities and basically, the road between cities and basically, you know, asks him to to support her in you know, asks him to to support her in you know, asks him to to support her in being restored. The story basically being restored. The story basically being restored. The story basically helps set the stage for Alexander helps set the stage for Alexander helps set the stage for Alexander putting a bunch of these local families putting a bunch of these local families putting a bunch of these local families that have long been in power in these that have long been in power in these that have long been in power in these regions back in power. It's part of the regions back in power. It's part of the regions back in power. It's part of the political game you play here. How do you political game you play here. How do you political game you play here. How do you keep these cities and these regions keep these cities and these regions keep these cities and these regions loyal to you after you, you know, rip loyal to you after you, you know, rip loyal to you after you, you know, rip them out of the Persian Empire? Well, do them out of the Persian Empire? Well, do them out of the Persian Empire? Well, do what the Persians were famous for doing, what the Persians were famous for doing, what the Persians were famous for doing, too. Leave the local royal family in too. Leave the local royal family in too. Leave the local royal family in place and then just have them be

place and then just have them be place and then just have them be subordinate to you. So, there's a story subordinate to you. So, there's a story subordinate to you. So, there's a story about him doing that. And supposedly about him doing that. And supposedly about him doing that. And supposedly when he meets this queen who he's going when he meets this queen who he's going when he meets this queen who he's going to call mother among several women who to call mother among several women who to call mother among several women who are older than him in the Alexander are older than him in the Alexander are older than him in the Alexander story that he will basically refer to as story that he will basically refer to as story that he will basically refer to as like mother. like mother. like mother. But once she you know basically throws But once she you know basically throws But once she you know basically throws her support behind him. A bunch of these her support behind him. A bunch of these her support behind him. A bunch of these smaller cities come over to him and then smaller cities come over to him and then smaller cities come over to him and then he arrives at Hakarnasses. Hakarnasses is the birthplace of Hakarnasses is the birthplace of Heroditus. It's the capital of Keria. It Heroditus. It's the capital of Keria. It Heroditus. It's the capital of Keria. It is the sat trap um you know seat of is the sat trap um you know seat of is the sat trap um you know seat of power in this region. and the satrop the power in this region. and the satrop the power in this region. and the satrop the commander the governor of this territory commander the governor of this territory commander the governor of this territory the regional vice president he's there the regional vice president he's there the regional vice president he's there and with him is old men of roads right and with him is old men of roads right and with him is old men of roads right as we said our one Greek character in as we said our one Greek character in as we said our one Greek character in the story that the Greeks can all sort the story that the Greeks can all sort the story that the Greeks can all sort of empathize with and get behind he's of empathize with and get behind he's of empathize with and get behind he's either the anti-hero or the hero on the either the anti-hero or the hero on the either the anti-hero or the hero on the anti-hero side but earlier we had talked anti-hero side but earlier we had talked anti-hero side but earlier we had talked about in the last edition you know about in the last edition you know about in the last edition you know whether his involvement and his whether his involvement and his whether his involvement and his importance had been sort of exaggerated importance had been sort of exaggerated importance had been sort of exaggerated by the Greek writers, but there's no by the Greek writers, but there's no by the Greek writers, but there's no denying the fact that he's very denying the fact that he's very denying the fact that he's very important here and now because he's been important here and now because he's been important here and now because he's been put in command of the whole region by put in command of the whole region by put in command of the whole region by the great king Darius been given command the great king Darius been given command the great king Darius been given command of the fleet. He's sent his family back of the fleet. He's sent his family back of the fleet. He's sent his family back to the royal seat of power with the to the royal seat of power with the to the royal seat of power with the Persian king. And you know, the Greek Persian king. And you know, the Greek Persian king. And you know, the Greek sources make it sound like they're sources make it sound like they're sources make it sound like they're hostages, and maybe they are, but I love hostages, and maybe they are, but I love hostages, and maybe they are, but I love that Voldemort Heckle had pointed out that Voldemort Heckle had pointed out that Voldemort Heckle had pointed out something that it's easy to forget. But something that it's easy to forget. But something that it's easy to forget. But in Helicarnass are a bunch of people in Helicarnass are a bunch of people in Helicarnass are a bunch of people that hate Alexander. A bunch of people

that hate Alexander. A bunch of people that hate Alexander. A bunch of people who are on sort of the naughty list, so who are on sort of the naughty list, so who are on sort of the naughty list, so that if he ever found them, they're that if he ever found them, they're that if he ever found them, they're going to be in trouble. um and a bunch going to be in trouble. um and a bunch going to be in trouble. um and a bunch of people who've already seen what of people who've already seen what of people who've already seen what Alexander has done to people like them Alexander has done to people like them Alexander has done to people like them in this story so far and who basically in this story so far and who basically in this story so far and who basically know that there's no running away from know that there's no running away from know that there's no running away from this in terms of their own personal this in terms of their own personal this in terms of their own personal fortunes. So everything is sort of on fortunes. So everything is sort of on fortunes. So everything is sort of on the line here. There's going to be a the line here. There's going to be a the line here. There's going to be a sense of desperation in this Hakarnasses sense of desperation in this Hakarnasses sense of desperation in this Hakarnasses incident that would make a good movie incident that would make a good movie incident that would make a good movie all by itself. all by itself. all by itself. The ancient sources say that Menon's The ancient sources say that Menon's The ancient sources say that Menon's been sort of topping off, if you will, been sort of topping off, if you will, been sort of topping off, if you will, the already fantastic defenses of the the already fantastic defenses of the the already fantastic defenses of the city, making ready for an upcoming city, making ready for an upcoming city, making ready for an upcoming siege. siege. siege. And the ancient sources don't tell us And the ancient sources don't tell us And the ancient sources don't tell us how tall the walls are. or I was doing a how tall the walls are. or I was doing a how tall the walls are. or I was doing a lot of research for estimates and if we lot of research for estimates and if we lot of research for estimates and if we said something apparently and this is said something apparently and this is said something apparently and this is something I didn't know apparently there something I didn't know apparently there something I didn't know apparently there are sort of like um expected are sort of like um expected are sort of like um expected defenses for certain size cities and the defenses for certain size cities and the defenses for certain size cities and the next level city is going to have a next level city is going to have a next level city is going to have a higher ones. So about 45 ft though tall higher ones. So about 45 ft though tall higher ones. So about 45 ft though tall maybe in some of the higher spots is not maybe in some of the higher spots is not maybe in some of the higher spots is not unreasonable unreasonable unreasonable with the same sort of um design at the with the same sort of um design at the with the same sort of um design at the top of the walls that you see on a top of the walls that you see on a top of the walls that you see on a castle, you know, where where there'll castle, you know, where where there'll castle, you know, where where there'll be an an outcropping and then a place to be an an outcropping and then a place to be an an outcropping and then a place to shoot arrows. And it's all like that shoot arrows. And it's all like that shoot arrows. And it's all like that around the city. And a lot of these around the city. And a lot of these around the city. And a lot of these ancient cities, I believe Helocaris was ancient cities, I believe Helocaris was ancient cities, I believe Helocaris was the same way, are built so that they're the same way, are built so that they're the same way, are built so that they're in multiple layers so that the first in multiple layers so that the first in multiple layers so that the first layer is built lower than the second layer is built lower than the second layer is built lower than the second one, which towers over the first. And one, which towers over the first. And one, which towers over the first. And that allows there to be sort of a that allows there to be sort of a that allows there to be sort of a stepping stone ever higher where as you

stepping stone ever higher where as you stepping stone ever higher where as you advance as the besieure, you're actually advance as the besieure, you're actually advance as the besieure, you're actually running into even higher ground. Right? running into even higher ground. Right? running into even higher ground. Right? Break break open those first walls and Break break open those first walls and Break break open those first walls and run in and now you're staring at walls run in and now you're staring at walls run in and now you're staring at walls that are higher than the ones you just that are higher than the ones you just that are higher than the ones you just broke through and they're shooting at broke through and they're shooting at broke through and they're shooting at you. I mean, see, sieges are a whole you. I mean, see, sieges are a whole you. I mean, see, sieges are a whole different thing for me. different thing for me. different thing for me. As a guy who got interested in military As a guy who got interested in military As a guy who got interested in military history as a kid, and I mean a child, history as a kid, and I mean a child, history as a kid, and I mean a child, sieges are not the interesting thing. sieges are not the interesting thing. sieges are not the interesting thing. But what you realize over time is how But what you realize over time is how But what you realize over time is how they alter, especially until cannons can they alter, especially until cannons can they alter, especially until cannons can knock down walls. It's a it's walls and knock down walls. It's a it's walls and knock down walls. It's a it's walls and fortifications and stuff around cities fortifications and stuff around cities fortifications and stuff around cities is huge. And you can tell, you know, is huge. And you can tell, you know, is huge. And you can tell, you know, this fact is true by how long and how this fact is true by how long and how this fact is true by how long and how univers how long we've been doing walls univers how long we've been doing walls univers how long we've been doing walls around cities and how universal it is, around cities and how universal it is, around cities and how universal it is, right? Go look at any ancient portrait right? Go look at any ancient portrait right? Go look at any ancient portrait of any city anywhere. I mean, this walls of any city anywhere. I mean, this walls of any city anywhere. I mean, this walls walls protect people. Walls sort of walls protect people. Walls sort of walls protect people. Walls sort of indicate power. Walls create equalizers indicate power. Walls create equalizers indicate power. Walls create equalizers when you're fighting armies that you when you're fighting armies that you when you're fighting armies that you could never defeat in the field. Like could never defeat in the field. Like could never defeat in the field. Like Alexander's, you know, the greatest army Alexander's, you know, the greatest army Alexander's, you know, the greatest army of his age. You're not going to defeat of his age. You're not going to defeat of his age. You're not going to defeat that in the field probably. But once he that in the field probably. But once he that in the field probably. But once he has to fight a siege with you, has to fight a siege with you, has to fight a siege with you, everything changes.

everything changes. everything changes. All those things that we've been All those things that we've been All those things that we've been salivating about as military history salivating about as military history salivating about as military history fans fans fans are nullified in a siege. For example, I are nullified in a siege. For example, I are nullified in a siege. For example, I love and you do too probably the love and you do too probably the love and you do too probably the formation that the formation that the formation that the Macedonians fight in. We've talked about Macedonians fight in. We've talked about Macedonians fight in. We've talked about it all this time, right? The the close it all this time, right? The the close it all this time, right? The the close order, you know, heavy infantry failanks order, you know, heavy infantry failanks order, you know, heavy infantry failanks with the long 16 18t pikes fighting, you with the long 16 18t pikes fighting, you with the long 16 18t pikes fighting, you know, shoulderto-shoulder as a solid know, shoulderto-shoulder as a solid know, shoulderto-shoulder as a solid block. That's not going to work over block. That's not going to work over block. That's not going to work over building rubble and walls that are building rubble and walls that are building rubble and walls that are crumbling and you're trying to shoot crumbling and you're trying to shoot crumbling and you're trying to shoot through holes you've made through. I through holes you've made through. I through holes you've made through. I mean, and what about the fantastic mean, and what about the fantastic mean, and what about the fantastic companion cavalry? What's that going to companion cavalry? What's that going to companion cavalry? What's that going to do? And you see what I'm saying? All of do? And you see what I'm saying? All of do? And you see what I'm saying? All of a sudden, these things that would just a sudden, these things that would just a sudden, these things that would just terrify you well and that were so terrify you well and that were so terrify you well and that were so effective at the Battle of the River effective at the Battle of the River effective at the Battle of the River Granicus that we just talked about, that Granicus that we just talked about, that Granicus that we just talked about, that stuff doesn't matter as much. And the stuff doesn't matter as much. And the stuff doesn't matter as much. And the things that the Persian side does pretty things that the Persian side does pretty things that the Persian side does pretty well are sort of exalted. I mean, well are sort of exalted. I mean, well are sort of exalted. I mean, they've always been good missile people, they've always been good missile people, they've always been good missile people, right? lots of archers, lots of people right? lots of archers, lots of people right? lots of archers, lots of people who can do that. Um, and Alexander when who can do that. Um, and Alexander when who can do that. Um, and Alexander when he approaches one of the outcroppings, he approaches one of the outcroppings, he approaches one of the outcroppings, there's, you know, these walls around there's, you know, these walls around there's, you know, these walls around Hocarnasses incorporate a lot of area.

Hocarnasses incorporate a lot of area. Hocarnasses incorporate a lot of area. And he'll he'll come up to sort of one And he'll he'll come up to sort of one And he'll he'll come up to sort of one place, I think it's about 10 miles away place, I think it's about 10 miles away place, I think it's about 10 miles away from the city itself, and he'll come up from the city itself, and he'll come up from the city itself, and he'll come up to the walls and they're throwing stones to the walls and they're throwing stones to the walls and they're throwing stones at them. And it's interesting to try to at them. And it's interesting to try to at them. And it's interesting to try to conceptualize how these things worked. conceptualize how these things worked. conceptualize how these things worked. Again, for a guy who's always been Again, for a guy who's always been Again, for a guy who's always been fascinated with the field battle side of fascinated with the field battle side of fascinated with the field battle side of things, you start to realize what a things, you start to realize what a things, you start to realize what a different challenge the sieges are and different challenge the sieges are and different challenge the sieges are and how we can see Alexander's true extra how we can see Alexander's true extra how we can see Alexander's true extra ability now come to the four. I said in ability now come to the four. I said in ability now come to the four. I said in the last edition, as we had talked the last edition, as we had talked the last edition, as we had talked about, um, that that Alexander's got about, um, that that Alexander's got about, um, that that Alexander's got this army which can just do amazing this army which can just do amazing this army which can just do amazing things without him. The sieges require things without him. The sieges require things without him. The sieges require all kinds of different almost all kinds of different almost all kinds of different almost engineering ways of thinking about engineering ways of thinking about engineering ways of thinking about problem solving. And Alexander turns out problem solving. And Alexander turns out problem solving. And Alexander turns out to be really good at this. and the to be really good at this. and the to be really good at this. and the energy that he's got is really helpful. energy that he's got is really helpful. energy that he's got is really helpful. But there's a big difference between But there's a big difference between But there's a big difference between using your sort of energy and dash and using your sort of energy and dash and using your sort of energy and dash and um you know lead from the front sort of um you know lead from the front sort of um you know lead from the front sort of approach in a battle that at most is approach in a battle that at most is approach in a battle that at most is going to last the entire day and then going to last the entire day and then going to last the entire day and then have it be done have it be done have it be done in something that can grind on for days in something that can grind on for days in something that can grind on for days and days and weeks and weeks. It's a and days and weeks and weeks. It's a and days and weeks and weeks. It's a different sort of different sort of different sort of test of an army's endurance and staying test of an army's endurance and staying test of an army's endurance and staying power and that's what you're going to power and that's what you're going to power and that's what you're going to get at Hakarnasses. I like the way that get at Hakarnasses. I like the way that get at Hakarnasses. I like the way that historian Ian Worthington and by the historian Ian Worthington and by the historian Ian Worthington and by the spear sort of sets up the Hocarnassis um spear sort of sets up the Hocarnassis um spear sort of sets up the Hocarnassis um challenge here and he writes about it by challenge here and he writes about it by challenge here and he writes about it by saying quote Hocarnasses was famous as saying quote Hocarnasses was famous as saying quote Hocarnasses was famous as the birthplace of the father of history the birthplace of the father of history the birthplace of the father of history Heroditus and the home of one of the Heroditus and the home of one of the Heroditus and the home of one of the seven wonders of the ancient world the seven wonders of the ancient world the seven wonders of the ancient world the Mausoleum the tomb of Moselus sat trap Mausoleum the tomb of Moselus sat trap Mausoleum the tomb of Moselus sat trap of Keria who had died in 353 and which

of Keria who had died in 353 and which of Keria who had died in 353 and which was eventually completed by his widow was eventually completed by his widow was eventually completed by his widow who happened to be his sister Armisia. who happened to be his sister Armisia. who happened to be his sister Armisia. Helicarnasses, he writes, was built on a Helicarnasses, he writes, was built on a Helicarnasses, he writes, was built on a hillside and was seemingly impregnable hillside and was seemingly impregnable hillside and was seemingly impregnable with enormous 6-ft thick defensive walls with enormous 6-ft thick defensive walls with enormous 6-ft thick defensive walls on top of which were fortified on top of which were fortified on top of which were fortified battlements and a series of high towers battlements and a series of high towers battlements and a series of high towers for protection. In front of the walls for protection. In front of the walls for protection. In front of the walls was a deep moat at least 40 ft wide. And was a deep moat at least 40 ft wide. And was a deep moat at least 40 ft wide. And behind them were the main city and its behind them were the main city and its behind them were the main city and its two citadels which the people could two citadels which the people could two citadels which the people could retreat to and fight on if necessary. retreat to and fight on if necessary. retreat to and fight on if necessary. The city's harbor, he writes, was well The city's harbor, he writes, was well The city's harbor, he writes, was well shielded from attack, and the Persian shielded from attack, and the Persian shielded from attack, and the Persian fleet was now riding at anchor in it. fleet was now riding at anchor in it. fleet was now riding at anchor in it. Because Alexander had dismissed his own Because Alexander had dismissed his own Because Alexander had dismissed his own fleet, the defenders could ferry in fleet, the defenders could ferry in fleet, the defenders could ferry in supplies, or even escape unhindered if supplies, or even escape unhindered if supplies, or even escape unhindered if need be, whereas his own supplies were need be, whereas his own supplies were need be, whereas his own supplies were starting to run out and had to be fed in starting to run out and had to be fed in starting to run out and had to be fed in from Mitus at least 2 days away." End from Mitus at least 2 days away." End from Mitus at least 2 days away." End quote. quote. quote. Now, the Greeks always make it sound Now, the Greeks always make it sound Now, the Greeks always make it sound like Persian general ships sucked.

like Persian general ships sucked. like Persian general ships sucked. which people like Pierre Bant and which people like Pierre Bant and which people like Pierre Bant and whatnot would point out ways you can whatnot would point out ways you can whatnot would point out ways you can figure out sort of that it didn't but figure out sort of that it didn't but figure out sort of that it didn't but they have no problem the Greek authors they have no problem the Greek authors they have no problem the Greek authors that is praising other Greeks and that's that is praising other Greeks and that's that is praising other Greeks and that's why you get a chance to see them openly why you get a chance to see them openly why you get a chance to see them openly talk about the quality of generalship talk about the quality of generalship talk about the quality of generalship that Alexander is going to face here in that Alexander is going to face here in that Alexander is going to face here in the siege of Hocarnasses is you know the siege of Hocarnasses is you know the siege of Hocarnasses is you know really coming up against Menon who was really coming up against Menon who was really coming up against Menon who was not in control at the battle of the not in control at the battle of the not in control at the battle of the granicus but is in control here and the granicus but is in control here and the granicus but is in control here and the combination of this guy who was a fine combination of this guy who was a fine combination of this guy who was a fine enough general to sort of get the better enough general to sort of get the better enough general to sort of get the better of Parminio's beach head force. You of Parminio's beach head force. You of Parminio's beach head force. You know, when Alexander's dad was first know, when Alexander's dad was first know, when Alexander's dad was first landing on the Persian coast, he was landing on the Persian coast, he was landing on the Persian coast, he was facing Menan. This guy is not a kid like facing Menan. This guy is not a kid like facing Menan. This guy is not a kid like Alexander. Doesn't have Alexander's, you Alexander. Doesn't have Alexander's, you Alexander. Doesn't have Alexander's, you know, genius, but he's not a kid. He's a know, genius, but he's not a kid. He's a know, genius, but he's not a kid. He's a hard-bitten, very experienced veteran hard-bitten, very experienced veteran hard-bitten, very experienced veteran whose brother, by the way, is also a whose brother, by the way, is also a whose brother, by the way, is also a general or was also a general. He's general or was also a general. He's general or was also a general. He's going to be formidable. And he's got a going to be formidable. And he's got a going to be formidable. And he's got a lot of mercenaries with him who are lot of mercenaries with him who are lot of mercenaries with him who are professional fighters who do this for a professional fighters who do this for a professional fighters who do this for a living and who know because they've living and who know because they've living and who know because they've watched what Alexander did at the watched what Alexander did at the watched what Alexander did at the Granicus. They know what the, you know, Granicus. They know what the, you know, Granicus. They know what the, you know, League of the Greeks says happens to League of the Greeks says happens to League of the Greeks says happens to people that I mean, they know what's people that I mean, they know what's people that I mean, they know what's going to happen. They're desperate, too.

going to happen. They're desperate, too. going to happen. They're desperate, too. And they don't have to face the scary And they don't have to face the scary And they don't have to face the scary Macedonian pike failanks that Philip Macedonian pike failanks that Philip Macedonian pike failanks that Philip Alexander's dad designed specifically to Alexander's dad designed specifically to Alexander's dad designed specifically to destroy units of hoplights. They don't destroy units of hoplights. They don't destroy units of hoplights. They don't have to fight that in the field. they have to fight that in the field. they have to fight that in the field. they get to have a great equalizer and fight get to have a great equalizer and fight get to have a great equalizer and fight over rubble, broken ground and in places over rubble, broken ground and in places over rubble, broken ground and in places where this becomes a much wide open where this becomes a much wide open where this becomes a much wide open fluid affair or where it's just crowds fluid affair or where it's just crowds fluid affair or where it's just crowds trying to find gaps to I mean it this trying to find gaps to I mean it this trying to find gaps to I mean it this this benefits the mercenaries in a way this benefits the mercenaries in a way this benefits the mercenaries in a way that they would have fully understood that they would have fully understood that they would have fully understood this is their best chance to do this is their best chance to do this is their best chance to do something against Alexander and when something against Alexander and when something against Alexander and when Alexander first shows up outside of Alexander first shows up outside of Alexander first shows up outside of Hakarnas he doesn't have a siege stuff Hakarnas he doesn't have a siege stuff Hakarnas he doesn't have a siege stuff with him that's actually coming with one with him that's actually coming with one with him that's actually coming with one of those 20 or so ships that are you of those 20 or so ships that are you of those 20 or so ships that are you know left to him and you hope the know left to him and you hope the know left to him and you hope the Persian fleet doesn't intercept those. Persian fleet doesn't intercept those. Persian fleet doesn't intercept those. And he tries to take a little I had to And he tries to take a little I had to And he tries to take a little I had to look this up. It's a little port city look this up. It's a little port city look this up. It's a little port city like about 10 miles from Hakarnas like about 10 miles from Hakarnas like about 10 miles from Hakarnas itself. He thought if he could take that itself. He thought if he could take that itself. He thought if he could take that then we could just use that as a place then we could just use that as a place then we could just use that as a place to land the siege engines and Aryan has to land the siege engines and Aryan has to land the siege engines and Aryan has this great story about how Alexander this great story about how Alexander this great story about how Alexander finds out from some of the loyalists in finds out from some of the loyalists in finds out from some of the loyalists in the city. Remember there's all these the city. Remember there's all these the city. Remember there's all these different political factions and some of different political factions and some of different political factions and some of them favor Alexander. He hears that them favor Alexander. He hears that them favor Alexander. He hears that there's a plot, you know, show up with there's a plot, you know, show up with there's a plot, you know, show up with the army and the city will, you know, the army and the city will, you know, the army and the city will, you know, come over to you. So he comes at night come over to you. So he comes at night come over to you. So he comes at night with a you know picked force but it's with a you know picked force but it's with a you know picked force but it's sounds like it was pretty large.

sounds like it was pretty large. sounds like it was pretty large. Fangites cavalry the whole shows up in Fangites cavalry the whole shows up in Fangites cavalry the whole shows up in the middle of the night expecting the the middle of the night expecting the the middle of the night expecting the city to come over to him and finds the city to come over to him and finds the city to come over to him and finds the walls all lined with troops and they're walls all lined with troops and they're walls all lined with troops and they're all bristling with spears and they're all bristling with spears and they're all bristling with spears and they're all ready all ready all ready being Alexander. He attacks it anyway. being Alexander. He attacks it anyway. being Alexander. He attacks it anyway. Brings down a tower or two we're told Brings down a tower or two we're told Brings down a tower or two we're told before being pelted with so many before being pelted with so many before being pelted with so many missiles and stones that they decide to missiles and stones that they decide to missiles and stones that they decide to back off and wait for the siege engines back off and wait for the siege engines back off and wait for the siege engines to show up. to show up. to show up. Once they do, this siege kicks into a Once they do, this siege kicks into a Once they do, this siege kicks into a different gear. different gear. different gear. And as we have talked about already, And as we have talked about already, And as we have talked about already, Alexander's dad invented a secret weapon Alexander's dad invented a secret weapon Alexander's dad invented a secret weapon when it comes to winning conflicts, and when it comes to winning conflicts, and when it comes to winning conflicts, and it is the siege train. He has engineers, it is the siege train. He has engineers, it is the siege train. He has engineers, a staff of them. I' I've I've seen them a staff of them. I' I've I've seen them a staff of them. I' I've I've seen them called an R&D staff of people who've called an R&D staff of people who've called an R&D staff of people who've actually invented new weapons to be used actually invented new weapons to be used actually invented new weapons to be used in sieges. in sieges. in sieges. People who would show up at something People who would show up at something People who would show up at something like this Hocarnasses siege and look at like this Hocarnasses siege and look at like this Hocarnasses siege and look at that as a challenge.

that as a challenge. that as a challenge. From a military history standpoint, From a military history standpoint, From a military history standpoint, someone like yours truly can't help but someone like yours truly can't help but someone like yours truly can't help but notice that what makes this Hocarnassis notice that what makes this Hocarnassis notice that what makes this Hocarnassis siege uh seem somewhat different to me siege uh seem somewhat different to me siege uh seem somewhat different to me is the fact that both sides are is the fact that both sides are is the fact that both sides are basically going to be employing basically going to be employing basically going to be employing artillery against each other because you artillery against each other because you artillery against each other because you only start seeing this happen anyway in only start seeing this happen anyway in only start seeing this happen anyway in like right around 400 390s in the Greek like right around 400 390s in the Greek like right around 400 390s in the Greek world anyway. world anyway. world anyway. things like bolt shooters and stuff and things like bolt shooters and stuff and things like bolt shooters and stuff and and you get different kinds of and you get different kinds of and you get different kinds of catapults, torsion instead of tension. I catapults, torsion instead of tension. I catapults, torsion instead of tension. I mean, all sorts of different things that mean, all sorts of different things that mean, all sorts of different things that really date from recent history here. really date from recent history here. really date from recent history here. And now all of a sudden, here we have a And now all of a sudden, here we have a And now all of a sudden, here we have a battle where they're going to have them battle where they're going to have them battle where they're going to have them on both sides shooting at each other. on both sides shooting at each other. on both sides shooting at each other. And they're going to be using the And they're going to be using the And they're going to be using the towers. towers. towers. Quick little recap of how siege warfare Quick little recap of how siege warfare Quick little recap of how siege warfare goes for those who may not know. We goes for those who may not know. We goes for those who may not know. We mentioned that walls are basically mentioned that walls are basically mentioned that walls are basically ubiquitous, right? Going back to like ubiquitous, right? Going back to like ubiquitous, right? Going back to like prehistory. Well, if you're in prehistory. Well, if you're in prehistory. Well, if you're in prehistory and you want to take a walled prehistory and you want to take a walled prehistory and you want to take a walled town, how do you do it? Well, the way town, how do you do it? Well, the way town, how do you do it? Well, the way that was the tried and true and easiest that was the tried and true and easiest that was the tried and true and easiest way is you just surround it and starve way is you just surround it and starve way is you just surround it and starve everyone out or you build some something everyone out or you build some something everyone out or you build some something that acts as a ladder or a ladder to, that acts as a ladder or a ladder to, that acts as a ladder or a ladder to, you know, try to storm the walls.

you know, try to storm the walls. you know, try to storm the walls. At some time in prehistory, somebody At some time in prehistory, somebody At some time in prehistory, somebody figured out sapping where you dig out figured out sapping where you dig out figured out sapping where you dig out the soil underneath the walls and create the soil underneath the walls and create the soil underneath the walls and create sort of a vacuum that the stone can then sort of a vacuum that the stone can then sort of a vacuum that the stone can then collapse down into, bringing down the collapse down into, bringing down the collapse down into, bringing down the walls. Sometime in prehistory you get walls. Sometime in prehistory you get walls. Sometime in prehistory you get the battering ram and we all know what the battering ram and we all know what the battering ram and we all know what that is. By the Assyrian time period at that is. By the Assyrian time period at that is. By the Assyrian time period at the latest because you can see it on the the latest because you can see it on the the latest because you can see it on the carved reliefs in 1,900 carved reliefs in 1,900 carved reliefs in 1,900 B.CE. They're using towers and engines B.CE. They're using towers and engines B.CE. They're using towers and engines of one sort or another. And the famous of one sort or another. And the famous of one sort or another. And the famous Trojan horse from the Iliad may be an Trojan horse from the Iliad may be an Trojan horse from the Iliad may be an illusion to something like a siege illusion to something like a siege illusion to something like a siege tower. tower. tower. But half of everything Alexander is But half of everything Alexander is But half of everything Alexander is going to do in his military history sort going to do in his military history sort going to do in his military history sort of background is going to be siege of background is going to be siege of background is going to be siege stuff. And it's sort of the other side, stuff. And it's sort of the other side, stuff. And it's sort of the other side, as we said, of what he brings to the as we said, of what he brings to the as we said, of what he brings to the table table table because he can't use the same skill sets because he can't use the same skill sets because he can't use the same skill sets that make him so useful at the Granicus. that make him so useful at the Granicus. that make him so useful at the Granicus. It's a different side of the brain, if It's a different side of the brain, if It's a different side of the brain, if you will, that's going to be employed in you will, that's going to be employed in you will, that's going to be employed in this. And he has this engineering staff this. And he has this engineering staff this. And he has this engineering staff to work with. And they look at the I to work with. And they look at the I to work with. And they look at the I tried to look it up. I don't know what tried to look it up. I don't know what tried to look it up. I don't know what the right number is, but if we imagined the right number is, but if we imagined the right number is, but if we imagined the circumference of of the city walls the circumference of of the city walls the circumference of of the city walls here being somewhere between four and here being somewhere between four and here being somewhere between four and five miles, that's probably not too far five miles, that's probably not too far five miles, that's probably not too far off with the height of the walls at the off with the height of the walls at the off with the height of the walls at the highest point being like 45 ft as we highest point being like 45 ft as we highest point being like 45 ft as we said, maybe with a 20 uh 3 foot deep said, maybe with a 20 uh 3 foot deep said, maybe with a 20 uh 3 foot deep moat. So, that's going to make the walls moat. So, that's going to make the walls moat. So, that's going to make the walls even seem higher. And it's 40t wide.

even seem higher. And it's 40t wide. even seem higher. And it's 40t wide. It has towers. It has a couple of It has towers. It has a couple of It has towers. It has a couple of citadels. It's going to be employing citadels. It's going to be employing citadels. It's going to be employing artillery on its side, too. And when artillery on its side, too. And when artillery on its side, too. And when Alexander is going to build giant towers Alexander is going to build giant towers Alexander is going to build giant towers to overlook these walls so that you can to overlook these walls so that you can to overlook these walls so that you can shoot at them from above and so that you shoot at them from above and so that you shoot at them from above and so that you can have platforms for your siege can have platforms for your siege can have platforms for your siege engines. They're going to do the same engines. They're going to do the same engines. They're going to do the same thing on the other side. thing on the other side. thing on the other side. And this siege of Hakarnasses is really And this siege of Hakarnasses is really And this siege of Hakarnasses is really a case of parry and thrust in sort of a a case of parry and thrust in sort of a a case of parry and thrust in sort of a fencing sense or a spy versus spy where fencing sense or a spy versus spy where fencing sense or a spy versus spy where Alexander the besieger does something Alexander the besieger does something Alexander the besieger does something and the people inside the city try to and the people inside the city try to and the people inside the city try to counter it. We'll knock down a wall counter it. We'll knock down a wall counter it. We'll knock down a wall here. We we'll rebuild a wall there. I here. We we'll rebuild a wall there. I here. We we'll rebuild a wall there. I mean the key element if you read the mean the key element if you read the mean the key element if you read the ancient sources though and it happens ancient sources though and it happens ancient sources though and it happens multiple times. I was trying to add up multiple times. I was trying to add up multiple times. I was trying to add up the number of times an area and I think the number of times an area and I think the number of times an area and I think it's three uh but I might be wrong by a it's three uh but I might be wrong by a it's three uh but I might be wrong by a factor of one but at least three let's factor of one but at least three let's factor of one but at least three let's put it that way times that the people put it that way times that the people put it that way times that the people inside the city have a uh sort of a mad inside the city have a uh sort of a mad inside the city have a uh sort of a mad they open the gates and have a mad rush they open the gates and have a mad rush they open the gates and have a mad rush with people who are carrying buckets of with people who are carrying buckets of with people who are carrying buckets of pitch and torches and at least in one pitch and torches and at least in one pitch and torches and at least in one case a bunch of guys who are armed and case a bunch of guys who are armed and case a bunch of guys who are armed and their job is to prevent the people who their job is to prevent the people who their job is to prevent the people who are going to try to stop the people that are going to try to stop the people that are going to try to stop the people that have the fire in the pitch and the have the fire in the pitch and the have the fire in the pitch and the people with the fire in the pitch are people with the fire in the pitch are people with the fire in the pitch are going to throw onto the siege engines going to throw onto the siege engines going to throw onto the siege engines and try to light them all on fire. And and try to light them all on fire. And and try to light them all on fire. And this is going to happen multiple times this is going to happen multiple times this is going to happen multiple times and there's going to be a significant and there's going to be a significant and there's going to be a significant amount of fighting at night. It's hard amount of fighting at night. It's hard amount of fighting at night. It's hard to keep track of kind of, but you do get to keep track of kind of, but you do get to keep track of kind of, but you do get this sense of over time, remember this this sense of over time, remember this this sense of over time, remember this is days, um, that you have stuff going is days, um, that you have stuff going is days, um, that you have stuff going on and like I said, a very different

on and like I said, a very different on and like I said, a very different rhythm than the normal battles in the rhythm than the normal battles in the rhythm than the normal battles in the ancient world that are over in a in a ancient world that are over in a in a ancient world that are over in a in a day. This is something where you have day. This is something where you have day. This is something where you have people working all the time and I was people working all the time and I was people working all the time and I was trying to get a sense of the pace and trying to get a sense of the pace and trying to get a sense of the pace and I'm not sure I got the right one but I'm not sure I got the right one but I'm not sure I got the right one but when you read Diodoras for example uh he when you read Diodoras for example uh he when you read Diodoras for example uh he talks about this happening in relays. So talks about this happening in relays. So talks about this happening in relays. So imagine most of the army isn't working. imagine most of the army isn't working. imagine most of the army isn't working. They're just sitting around watching. They're just sitting around watching. They're just sitting around watching. Again another aspect of ancient warfare Again another aspect of ancient warfare Again another aspect of ancient warfare that's different. You don't have shells that's different. You don't have shells that's different. You don't have shells and bullets that can hit you from a and bullets that can hit you from a and bullets that can hit you from a distance. You can be kind of close up distance. You can be kind of close up distance. You can be kind of close up and perfectly safe and watch. U maybe 5% and perfectly safe and watch. U maybe 5% and perfectly safe and watch. U maybe 5% of the army. Just throwing that out of the army. Just throwing that out of the army. Just throwing that out there is the one actually working on uh there is the one actually working on uh there is the one actually working on uh a piece of the wall at any given time a piece of the wall at any given time a piece of the wall at any given time while everybody else watches and they while everybody else watches and they while everybody else watches and they rotate. rotate. rotate. But it's a 247 job. It certainly sounds But it's a 247 job. It certainly sounds But it's a 247 job. It certainly sounds like it because both uh Aryan and like it because both uh Aryan and like it because both uh Aryan and Diodoris talk about it that there are uh Diodoris talk about it that there are uh Diodoris talk about it that there are uh prepared things that they put up to sort prepared things that they put up to sort prepared things that they put up to sort of shield the people who are working. of shield the people who are working. of shield the people who are working. So, think of like wicker um So, think of like wicker um So, think of like wicker um mantlets or or something like a Civil mantlets or or something like a Civil mantlets or or something like a Civil War rather than a First World War trench War rather than a First World War trench War rather than a First World War trench situation where you put up things. If situation where you put up things. If situation where you put up things. If you were a kid with a treehouse and you were a kid with a treehouse and you were a kid with a treehouse and someone was throwing dirt clouds at you, someone was throwing dirt clouds at you, someone was throwing dirt clouds at you, you might put up a board to keep them you might put up a board to keep them you might put up a board to keep them from being able to do that. So, so you from being able to do that. So, so you from being able to do that. So, so you think about something like that think about something like that think about something like that because it's going to be a process as because it's going to be a process as because it's going to be a process as you begin to fill in the moat and you you begin to fill in the moat and you you begin to fill in the moat and you have to fill in the moat to get the have to fill in the moat to get the have to fill in the moat to get the siege engines close enough. And well, siege engines close enough. And well, siege engines close enough. And well, why don't I let Diodoris pick up the why don't I let Diodoris pick up the why don't I let Diodoris pick up the story? It's very exciting. And the story? It's very exciting. And the story? It's very exciting. And the difference, by the way, between Diodoris difference, by the way, between Diodoris difference, by the way, between Diodoris and Aryan in their accounts of this is and Aryan in their accounts of this is and Aryan in their accounts of this is that Diodoris has it be a extremely

that Diodoris has it be a extremely that Diodoris has it be a extremely difficult thing uh for Alexander. difficult thing uh for Alexander. difficult thing uh for Alexander. Aryan's weird because he makes it sound Aryan's weird because he makes it sound Aryan's weird because he makes it sound like nothing was a big deal, but then like nothing was a big deal, but then like nothing was a big deal, but then when he tells you how many people were when he tells you how many people were when he tells you how many people were injured and whatnot in any given uh injured and whatnot in any given uh injured and whatnot in any given uh situation, you kind of go, "Sounds like situation, you kind of go, "Sounds like situation, you kind of go, "Sounds like a big deal." So, um, the real problem a big deal." So, um, the real problem a big deal." So, um, the real problem Alexander has is that because Alexander has is that because Alexander has is that because Hakarnasses has a giant open harbor Hakarnasses has a giant open harbor Hakarnasses has a giant open harbor controlled by the Persian fleet and controlled by the Persian fleet and controlled by the Persian fleet and Alexander really doesn't have a fleet Alexander really doesn't have a fleet Alexander really doesn't have a fleet that that he can't shut this city down. that that he can't shut this city down. that that he can't shut this city down. Theodoris uh in my C Bradford Wells Theodoris uh in my C Bradford Wells Theodoris uh in my C Bradford Wells translation picks up the story with translation picks up the story with translation picks up the story with Alexander arriving right outside Alexander arriving right outside Alexander arriving right outside Hocronasses and starting the siege. And Hocronasses and starting the siege. And Hocronasses and starting the siege. And Theodora says, quote, "Alexander Theodora says, quote, "Alexander Theodora says, quote, "Alexander encamped near the city and set in motion encamped near the city and set in motion encamped near the city and set in motion an active and formidable siege. At an active and formidable siege. At an active and formidable siege. At first, he made continued assaults on the first, he made continued assaults on the first, he made continued assaults on the walls with relays of attackers and spent walls with relays of attackers and spent walls with relays of attackers and spent whole days in active fighting. Later he whole days in active fighting. Later he whole days in active fighting. Later he brought up all sorts of engines of war, brought up all sorts of engines of war, brought up all sorts of engines of war, filled in the trenches in front of the filled in the trenches in front of the filled in the trenches in front of the city with the aid of sheds to protect city with the aid of sheds to protect city with the aid of sheds to protect the workers, and rocked the towers and the workers, and rocked the towers and the workers, and rocked the towers and the curtains between them with his the curtains between them with his the curtains between them with his battering rams. Whenever he overthrew a battering rams. Whenever he overthrew a battering rams. Whenever he overthrew a position of the wall, he attempted by position of the wall, he attempted by position of the wall, he attempted by hand-to-hand fighting to force an entry hand-to-hand fighting to force an entry hand-to-hand fighting to force an entry into the city over the rubble. But Menon into the city over the rubble. But Menon into the city over the rubble. But Menon at first easily beat off the Macedonians at first easily beat off the Macedonians at first easily beat off the Macedonians assaulting the walls, for he had large assaulting the walls, for he had large assaulting the walls, for he had large numbers of men in the city. Where the numbers of men in the city. Where the numbers of men in the city. Where the siege engines were attacking, he issued siege engines were attacking, he issued siege engines were attacking, he issued from the citadel at night with numbers

from the citadel at night with numbers from the citadel at night with numbers of soldiers and applied fire to the of soldiers and applied fire to the of soldiers and applied fire to the machines. Fierce fights occurred in machines. Fierce fights occurred in machines. Fierce fights occurred in front of the city in which the front of the city in which the front of the city in which the Macedonians showed far superior prowess. Macedonians showed far superior prowess. Macedonians showed far superior prowess. But the Persians had the advantage of But the Persians had the advantage of But the Persians had the advantage of numbers and of firepower, for they had numbers and of firepower, for they had numbers and of firepower, for they had the support of men who fought from the the support of men who fought from the the support of men who fought from the walls, using engines to shoot darts, walls, using engines to shoot darts, walls, using engines to shoot darts, which they then killed some of the enemy which they then killed some of the enemy which they then killed some of the enemy and disabled others. End quote. Well, if and disabled others. End quote. Well, if and disabled others. End quote. Well, if you read Aryan, you see that there's a you read Aryan, you see that there's a you read Aryan, you see that there's a lot that is sort of, you know, covered lot that is sort of, you know, covered lot that is sort of, you know, covered in all that stuff that he's talking in all that stuff that he's talking in all that stuff that he's talking about. But it's clear that Alexander's about. But it's clear that Alexander's about. But it's clear that Alexander's facing, you know, engines of war, as facing, you know, engines of war, as facing, you know, engines of war, as they're called, artillery, as he breaks they're called, artillery, as he breaks they're called, artillery, as he breaks into these places once he knocks the into these places once he knocks the into these places once he knocks the walls down. I mean, that is literally walls down. I mean, that is literally walls down. I mean, that is literally overcoming all of the typical overcoming all of the typical overcoming all of the typical battlefield advantages the Macedonians battlefield advantages the Macedonians battlefield advantages the Macedonians have and putting them in a really, have and putting them in a really, have and putting them in a really, really tough situation. This is where really tough situation. This is where really tough situation. This is where you get to see that they would be good you get to see that they would be good you get to see that they would be good and dangerous soldiers regardless of the and dangerous soldiers regardless of the and dangerous soldiers regardless of the formation they were using and regardless formation they were using and regardless formation they were using and regardless of, you know, whether or not they could of, you know, whether or not they could of, you know, whether or not they could use their giant long spears together use their giant long spears together use their giant long spears together because this is hand-to-hand stuff. As I because this is hand-to-hand stuff. As I because this is hand-to-hand stuff. As I said, with engines of war shooting at said, with engines of war shooting at said, with engines of war shooting at you.

you. you. Now, in the Aryan version of this story, Now, in the Aryan version of this story, Now, in the Aryan version of this story, he basically says it was no problem. And he basically says it was no problem. And he basically says it was no problem. And then he gives the casualty reports. Um, then he gives the casualty reports. Um, then he gives the casualty reports. Um, and it sounds like it wasn't all that and it sounds like it wasn't all that and it sounds like it wasn't all that easy. He writes, quote, "A night sally easy. He writes, quote, "A night sally easy. He writes, quote, "A night sally from Helicarnasses to set fire to the from Helicarnasses to set fire to the from Helicarnasses to set fire to the towers and the other engines which had towers and the other engines which had towers and the other engines which had been moved up or were nearly in position been moved up or were nearly in position been moved up or were nearly in position was countered and easily beaten back was countered and easily beaten back was countered and easily beaten back within the walls by the Macedonian within the walls by the Macedonian within the walls by the Macedonian guards, supported by other troops roused guards, supported by other troops roused guards, supported by other troops roused by the alarm. About 170 of the men from by the alarm. About 170 of the men from by the alarm. About 170 of the men from Hakarnasses were killed, including Hakarnasses were killed, including Hakarnasses were killed, including Neoamus, the son of Arabus, the brother Neoamus, the son of Arabus, the brother Neoamus, the son of Arabus, the brother of Amentas, one of those who had of Amentas, one of those who had of Amentas, one of those who had deserted to Darius. The losses among deserted to Darius. The losses among deserted to Darius. The losses among Alexander's troops amounted to 16, but Alexander's troops amounted to 16, but Alexander's troops amounted to 16, but some 300 were wounded as this was a some 300 were wounded as this was a some 300 were wounded as this was a sudden action at night and they were not sudden action at night and they were not sudden action at night and they were not wearing any proper protective armor. End wearing any proper protective armor. End wearing any proper protective armor. End quote. That from my Martin Hammond quote. That from my Martin Hammond quote. That from my Martin Hammond translation, by the way, translation, by the way, translation, by the way, but anyway you slice it, that's a lot of but anyway you slice it, that's a lot of but anyway you slice it, that's a lot of injuries, right? This this wasn't such a injuries, right? This this wasn't such a injuries, right? This this wasn't such a minor affair and this will be done by minor affair and this will be done by minor affair and this will be done by the defenders several times.

the defenders several times. the defenders several times. If you believe the ancients, some weird If you believe the ancients, some weird If you believe the ancients, some weird crap happens with Perticus, who if you crap happens with Perticus, who if you crap happens with Perticus, who if you recall, recall, recall, um, some weird crap happened with when um, some weird crap happened with when um, some weird crap happened with when the uh, besieging of thieves was going the uh, besieging of thieves was going the uh, besieging of thieves was going on a while back. And in that situation, on a while back. And in that situation, on a while back. And in that situation, if you recall, it was Perticus' troops if you recall, it was Perticus' troops if you recall, it was Perticus' troops that attacked sort of without orders, that attacked sort of without orders, that attacked sort of without orders, allegedly, and dragged the rest of the allegedly, and dragged the rest of the allegedly, and dragged the rest of the army in to support them. Right? There's army in to support them. Right? There's army in to support them. Right? There's a whole school of thought out there that a whole school of thought out there that a whole school of thought out there that Perticus is sort of a whipping boy for Perticus is sort of a whipping boy for Perticus is sort of a whipping boy for any decision Alexander makes where the any decision Alexander makes where the any decision Alexander makes where the outcome isn't stupendously overwhelming outcome isn't stupendously overwhelming outcome isn't stupendously overwhelming somehow is Perticus's fault and lots of somehow is Perticus's fault and lots of somehow is Perticus's fault and lots of analysis over the eras as to whether or analysis over the eras as to whether or analysis over the eras as to whether or not the bias of one of the main sources not the bias of one of the main sources not the bias of one of the main sources here Tommy friend of Alexander one of here Tommy friend of Alexander one of here Tommy friend of Alexander one of his generals one of the successors the his generals one of the successors the his generals one of the successors the guy who started the whole dynasty in guy who started the whole dynasty in guy who started the whole dynasty in Egypt that was ended with Cleopatra uh Egypt that was ended with Cleopatra uh Egypt that was ended with Cleopatra uh he didn't like Perticus very much and so he didn't like Perticus very much and so he didn't like Perticus very much and so when he's doing the opposite of what when he's doing the opposite of what when he's doing the opposite of what Churchill was supposed to do Churchill Churchill was supposed to do Churchill Churchill was supposed to do Churchill said allegedly I know history will treat said allegedly I know history will treat said allegedly I know history will treat me kindly because I will be writing that me kindly because I will be writing that me kindly because I will be writing that history. Tommy is a little like I know history. Tommy is a little like I know history. Tommy is a little like I know history will treat Perticus unkindly history will treat Perticus unkindly history will treat Perticus unkindly because I will be writing that history.

because I will be writing that history. because I will be writing that history. So Perticus gets the short end of the So Perticus gets the short end of the So Perticus gets the short end of the stick sometimes whether he deserves it stick sometimes whether he deserves it stick sometimes whether he deserves it or not. or not. or not. He is a little like if you I mean you'd He is a little like if you I mean you'd He is a little like if you I mean you'd be forgiven if you were starting to see be forgiven if you were starting to see be forgiven if you were starting to see him as the Dennis the menace of of him as the Dennis the menace of of him as the Dennis the menace of of Alexandrian generals at this point. How Alexandrian generals at this point. How Alexandrian generals at this point. How he keeps his job. Who knows? But but he keeps his job. Who knows? But but he keeps his job. Who knows? But but here's the way that um AB Bosworth in here's the way that um AB Bosworth in here's the way that um AB Bosworth in his conquest and empire sort of his conquest and empire sort of his conquest and empire sort of describes the situation uh that happens describes the situation uh that happens describes the situation uh that happens here. He says, quote, "The most notable here. He says, quote, "The most notable here. He says, quote, "The most notable incident came when the walls were almost incident came when the walls were almost incident came when the walls were almost breached. Two towers and an intervening breached. Two towers and an intervening breached. Two towers and an intervening curtain wall had been demolished and a curtain wall had been demolished and a curtain wall had been demolished and a night attack developed when two drunken night attack developed when two drunken night attack developed when two drunken members of Perticus' battalion tried to members of Perticus' battalion tried to members of Perticus' battalion tried to scale the defenses in a fit of reckless scale the defenses in a fit of reckless scale the defenses in a fit of reckless bravado. More of the battalion followed bravado. More of the battalion followed bravado. More of the battalion followed their example until there was a their example until there was a their example until there was a full-scale engagement. The Macedonians, full-scale engagement. The Macedonians, full-scale engagement. The Macedonians, he writes, suffered heavy casualties, he writes, suffered heavy casualties, he writes, suffered heavy casualties, and the defenders were forced back into and the defenders were forced back into and the defenders were forced back into the walls only after intense fighting. the walls only after intense fighting. the walls only after intense fighting. The dead remained unreoverable thanks to The dead remained unreoverable thanks to The dead remained unreoverable thanks to the raking fire from Hakarnasses, and the raking fire from Hakarnasses, and the raking fire from Hakarnasses, and Alexander was compelled to parlay for a Alexander was compelled to parlay for a Alexander was compelled to parlay for a truce, a humiliation unique in his truce, a humiliation unique in his truce, a humiliation unique in his reign. End quote. He then writes about reign. End quote. He then writes about reign. End quote. He then writes about Aryan sort of finding a way to gloss Aryan sort of finding a way to gloss Aryan sort of finding a way to gloss over this reverse and he says, quote, over this reverse and he says, quote, over this reverse and he says, quote, "Most of this is slurred over by Aryan, "Most of this is slurred over by Aryan, "Most of this is slurred over by Aryan, who focuses upon the Macedonian who focuses upon the Macedonian who focuses upon the Macedonian successes and represents the siege as a successes and represents the siege as a successes and represents the siege as a series of effortless victories. The series of effortless victories. The series of effortless victories. The reality was very different. Even when reality was very different. Even when reality was very different. Even when the Macedonians penetrated the outer the Macedonians penetrated the outer the Macedonians penetrated the outer wall, they found themselves enclosed by

wall, they found themselves enclosed by wall, they found themselves enclosed by a secondary crescent-shaped defensive a secondary crescent-shaped defensive a secondary crescent-shaped defensive brick, and they became vulnerable in the brick, and they became vulnerable in the brick, and they became vulnerable in the flank and rear. The defenders had even flank and rear. The defenders had even flank and rear. The defenders had even mounted a large wooden tower on the wall mounted a large wooden tower on the wall mounted a large wooden tower on the wall which housed arrow firing catapults. which housed arrow firing catapults. which housed arrow firing catapults. Despite the losses, the attack was Despite the losses, the attack was Despite the losses, the attack was pressed home and the situation of the pressed home and the situation of the pressed home and the situation of the defenders became critical. End quote. defenders became critical. End quote. defenders became critical. End quote. And this is where you get the final And this is where you get the final And this is where you get the final sallying forth of 2,000 picked men sallying forth of 2,000 picked men sallying forth of 2,000 picked men according to the ancient sources. according to the ancient sources. according to the ancient sources. This is the sort where the um picked men This is the sort where the um picked men This is the sort where the um picked men are divided in half. Half of them with are divided in half. Half of them with are divided in half. Half of them with torches and pitch to light the siege torches and pitch to light the siege torches and pitch to light the siege engines on fire. As I said, like the engines on fire. As I said, like the engines on fire. As I said, like the third time they've tried this or third time they've tried this or third time they've tried this or something. But this is the time where something. But this is the time where something. But this is the time where the other thousand are going to get into the other thousand are going to get into the other thousand are going to get into a closely packed failanks and attack a closely packed failanks and attack a closely packed failanks and attack anyone who comes and tries to stop the anyone who comes and tries to stop the anyone who comes and tries to stop the people from lighting the fires. This is people from lighting the fires. This is people from lighting the fires. This is where the heads of the mercenary uh where the heads of the mercenary uh where the heads of the mercenary uh forces go out themselves. I mean it's a forces go out themselves. I mean it's a forces go out themselves. I mean it's a little like a last stand situation little like a last stand situation little like a last stand situation because if this fails then what because if this fails then what because if this fails then what to show how the different sources handle to show how the different sources handle to show how the different sources handle this and where maybe the bias is is this and where maybe the bias is is this and where maybe the bias is is Aryan portrays this as easily sort of Aryan portrays this as easily sort of Aryan portrays this as easily sort of crushed because the the great veterans crushed because the the great veterans crushed because the the great veterans Alexander's old time it's it's almost Alexander's old time it's it's almost Alexander's old time it's it's almost like his father's old guard if you will like his father's old guard if you will like his father's old guard if you will these guys who are exempt from the grunt these guys who are exempt from the grunt these guys who are exempt from the grunt sort of work that would be most of a sort of work that would be most of a sort of work that would be most of a siege that they're brought into the siege that they're brought into the siege that they're brought into the situation to show the youngans how it's situation to show the youngans how it's situation to show the youngans how it's done and so no problem. Aryan points done and so no problem. Aryan points done and so no problem. Aryan points out,

out, out, but Diodoris in the in the more modern but Diodoris in the in the more modern but Diodoris in the in the more modern sources point out that the fact that the sources point out that the fact that the sources point out that the fact that the guard is brought in at all shows that it guard is brought in at all shows that it guard is brought in at all shows that it was a difficult situation that needed was a difficult situation that needed was a difficult situation that needed rescuing. rescuing. rescuing. The Athenian head of the mercenaries The Athenian head of the mercenaries The Athenian head of the mercenaries here, by the way, is a man named here, by the way, is a man named here, by the way, is a man named Ephaltes, and he's the one who leads Ephaltes, and he's the one who leads Ephaltes, and he's the one who leads this sallying forth out this last great this sallying forth out this last great this sallying forth out this last great effort to destroy the siege engines um effort to destroy the siege engines um effort to destroy the siege engines um with the picked men, right? these with the picked men, right? these with the picked men, right? these professional mercenaries who know professional mercenaries who know professional mercenaries who know they've got, you know, everything to they've got, you know, everything to they've got, you know, everything to fight for because if they don't win fight for because if they don't win fight for because if they don't win here, they're they're done for. And um here, they're they're done for. And um here, they're they're done for. And um in my Robin Waterfield translation of in my Robin Waterfield translation of in my Robin Waterfield translation of Diodoris, Diodoris says, quote, Diodoris, Diodoris says, quote, Diodoris, Diodoris says, quote, "Ephialties therefore put together a "Ephialties therefore put together a "Ephialties therefore put together a force of 2,000 picked men, half of whom force of 2,000 picked men, half of whom force of 2,000 picked men, half of whom were given lighted torches, while the were given lighted torches, while the were given lighted torches, while the rest were to engage the enemy, and rest were to engage the enemy, and rest were to engage the enemy, and suddenly opened all the city gates. It suddenly opened all the city gates. It suddenly opened all the city gates. It was daybreak and emerging from the city was daybreak and emerging from the city was daybreak and emerging from the city with his men, he had some of them set with his men, he had some of them set with his men, he had some of them set fire to the siege engines, the flames fire to the siege engines, the flames fire to the siege engines, the flames leapt up straight away while he led the leapt up straight away while he led the leapt up straight away while he led the rest who were formed into a deep and rest who were formed into a deep and rest who were formed into a deep and closely packed failanks in an attack on closely packed failanks in an attack on closely packed failanks in an attack on the Macedonians who were coming to try the Macedonians who were coming to try the Macedonians who were coming to try to save the contraptions.

to save the contraptions. to save the contraptions. End quote. Now Alexander gets involved End quote. Now Alexander gets involved End quote. Now Alexander gets involved personally. Once again, it's it's hard personally. Once again, it's it's hard personally. Once again, it's it's hard to emphasize how and it may have been to emphasize how and it may have been to emphasize how and it may have been something a Macedonian king was expected something a Macedonian king was expected something a Macedonian king was expected to do, but Alexander's always Johnny on to do, but Alexander's always Johnny on to do, but Alexander's always Johnny on the spot. He's right there. He's in the the spot. He's right there. He's in the the spot. He's right there. He's in the front. He's fighting. And remember, this front. He's fighting. And remember, this front. He's fighting. And remember, this is a very dangerous situation for a king is a very dangerous situation for a king is a very dangerous situation for a king to find himself in in the mix of to find himself in in the mix of to find himself in in the mix of something like this. And Diodoris something like this. And Diodoris something like this. And Diodoris continues, quote, continues, quote, continues, quote, "When Alexander realized what was "When Alexander realized what was "When Alexander realized what was happening, he posted the foremost happening, he posted the foremost happening, he posted the foremost fighters among his Macedonian troops in fighters among his Macedonian troops in fighters among his Macedonian troops in front with a body of picked men to front with a body of picked men to front with a body of picked men to relieve them. And then behind these, he relieve them. And then behind these, he relieve them. And then behind these, he posted a third division, all men of posted a third division, all men of posted a third division, all men of exceptional valor. Then he led this unit exceptional valor. Then he led this unit exceptional valor. Then he led this unit into battle with himself at the head. into battle with himself at the head. into battle with himself at the head. And the enemy, who had thought that And the enemy, who had thought that And the enemy, who had thought that their numbers would deter opposition, their numbers would deter opposition, their numbers would deter opposition, found themselves having to fight. found themselves having to fight. found themselves having to fight. Alexander also dispatched men to put out Alexander also dispatched men to put out Alexander also dispatched men to put out the fires and save the siege engines. A the fires and save the siege engines. A the fires and save the siege engines. A great shout arose from both sides at great shout arose from both sides at great shout arose from both sides at once, and the trumpets sounded the once, and the trumpets sounded the once, and the trumpets sounded the signal for battle. The soldiers fought signal for battle. The soldiers fought signal for battle. The soldiers fought with such skill and extraordinary with such skill and extraordinary with such skill and extraordinary determination that a ferocious struggle determination that a ferocious struggle determination that a ferocious struggle ensued. The Macedonians managed to stop ensued. The Macedonians managed to stop ensued. The Macedonians managed to stop the fire from spreading, but Ephaltis the fire from spreading, but Ephaltis the fire from spreading, but Ephaltis and his men were winning the fight. He and his men were winning the fight. He and his men were winning the fight. He was by far the strongest man on the was by far the strongest man on the was by far the strongest man on the field, and everyone who came up against field, and everyone who came up against field, and everyone who came up against him lost his life. The Macedonians were him lost his life. The Macedonians were him lost his life. The Macedonians were also losing many men to the relentless also losing many men to the relentless also losing many men to the relentless volleys of missiles fired from the top volleys of missiles fired from the top volleys of missiles fired from the top of the recently built counterwall where of the recently built counterwall where of the recently built counterwall where the defenders had built a wooden tower the defenders had built a wooden tower the defenders had built a wooden tower 100 cubits high. I think I read that

100 cubits high. I think I read that 100 cubits high. I think I read that that was like 15 stories or something that was like 15 stories or something that was like 15 stories or something like that and filled it with bolt like that and filled it with bolt like that and filled it with bolt shooting catapults. Many Macedonians shooting catapults. Many Macedonians shooting catapults. Many Macedonians died and the rest were beginning to fall died and the rest were beginning to fall died and the rest were beginning to fall back under the onslaught of the back under the onslaught of the back under the onslaught of the countless missiles that were raining countless missiles that were raining countless missiles that were raining down on them. And when Menon brought his down on them. And when Menon brought his down on them. And when Menon brought his reinforcements into play in large reinforcements into play in large reinforcements into play in large numbers, even Alexander had no real numbers, even Alexander had no real numbers, even Alexander had no real response. End quote. response. End quote. response. End quote. It's at this point Diodoris says that It's at this point Diodoris says that It's at this point Diodoris says that the old guard is called in and they're the old guard is called in and they're the old guard is called in and they're going to show the youngans, you know, going to show the youngans, you know, going to show the youngans, you know, how it's done. And they do. how it's done. And they do. how it's done. And they do. From my C. Bradford Wells translation of From my C. Bradford Wells translation of From my C. Bradford Wells translation of Diodoris quote. Diodoris quote. Diodoris quote. Just at that moment, as the men from the Just at that moment, as the men from the Just at that moment, as the men from the city were prevailing, the tide of battle city were prevailing, the tide of battle city were prevailing, the tide of battle was surprisingly reversed. For the was surprisingly reversed. For the was surprisingly reversed. For the oldest Macedonians, who were exempt from oldest Macedonians, who were exempt from oldest Macedonians, who were exempt from combat duty by virtue of their age, but combat duty by virtue of their age, but combat duty by virtue of their age, but who had served with Philip on his who had served with Philip on his who had served with Philip on his campaigns and had been victorious in campaigns and had been victorious in campaigns and had been victorious in many battles, were roused by the many battles, were roused by the many battles, were roused by the emergency to show their valor, and being emergency to show their valor, and being emergency to show their valor, and being far superior in pride and war far superior in pride and war far superior in pride and war experience, sharply rebuked the experience, sharply rebuked the experience, sharply rebuked the faint-heartedness of the youngsters who faint-heartedness of the youngsters who faint-heartedness of the youngsters who wished to avoid the battle. They then wished to avoid the battle. They then wished to avoid the battle. They then closed ranks with their shields closed ranks with their shields closed ranks with their shields overlapping and confronted the foe who overlapping and confronted the foe who overlapping and confronted the foe who thought himself already victorious. They thought himself already victorious. They thought himself already victorious. They succeeded in slaying Ephaltes and many succeeded in slaying Ephaltes and many succeeded in slaying Ephaltes and many others and finally forced the rest to others and finally forced the rest to others and finally forced the rest to take refuge in the city. Knight had take refuge in the city. Knight had take refuge in the city. Knight had already fallen as the Macedonians pushed already fallen as the Macedonians pushed already fallen as the Macedonians pushed within the walls along with their

within the walls along with their within the walls along with their fleeing enemies. But the king ordered fleeing enemies. But the king ordered fleeing enemies. But the king ordered the trumpeter to sound the recall and the trumpeter to sound the recall and the trumpeter to sound the recall and they withdrew to their camp. End quote. they withdrew to their camp. End quote. they withdrew to their camp. End quote. I like the way Peter Green describes the I like the way Peter Green describes the I like the way Peter Green describes the tragedy that happens next as the tide tragedy that happens next as the tide tragedy that happens next as the tide turns in the battle. And and and you see turns in the battle. And and and you see turns in the battle. And and and you see this in some ancient battles where the this in some ancient battles where the this in some ancient battles where the people in the city start panicking people in the city start panicking people in the city start panicking because the uh troops that have just because the uh troops that have just because the uh troops that have just defeated your defenders are close on defeated your defenders are close on defeated your defenders are close on their heels. When do you shut the gates their heels. When do you shut the gates their heels. When do you shut the gates to keep out the bad guys? Right. Well, to keep out the bad guys? Right. Well, to keep out the bad guys? Right. Well, often this is mistimed. And Peter Green often this is mistimed. And Peter Green often this is mistimed. And Peter Green in his Alexander of Macedon writes, in his Alexander of Macedon writes, in his Alexander of Macedon writes, quote, quote, quote, "In a matter of minutes, the whole "In a matter of minutes, the whole "In a matter of minutes, the whole Persian assault group crumbled and began Persian assault group crumbled and began Persian assault group crumbled and began a stampede back to the city. There was a stampede back to the city. There was a stampede back to the city. There was savage hand-to-hand fighting by the savage hand-to-hand fighting by the savage hand-to-hand fighting by the curtain wall while so many men crowded curtain wall while so many men crowded curtain wall while so many men crowded onto the bridge crossing the moat that onto the bridge crossing the moat that onto the bridge crossing the moat that it collapsed. The defenders inside the it collapsed. The defenders inside the it collapsed. The defenders inside the city gate panicked and in their city gate panicked and in their city gate panicked and in their eagerness to stop the Macedonians eagerness to stop the Macedonians eagerness to stop the Macedonians forcing an entry shut out considerable forcing an entry shut out considerable forcing an entry shut out considerable numbers of their own men. Some were numbers of their own men. Some were numbers of their own men. Some were trampled to death in the rush. The rest trampled to death in the rush. The rest trampled to death in the rush. The rest died by the spears of their Macedonian died by the spears of their Macedonian died by the spears of their Macedonian pursuers. By now night was falling and pursuers. By now night was falling and pursuers. By now night was falling and Alexander had the retreat sounded. In Alexander had the retreat sounded. In Alexander had the retreat sounded. In the circumstances he was lucky to have the circumstances he was lucky to have the circumstances he was lucky to have scraped a victory at all. The scraped a victory at all. The scraped a victory at all. The Macedonians withdrew to their camp.

Macedonians withdrew to their camp. Macedonians withdrew to their camp. Alexander knew when not to press his Alexander knew when not to press his Alexander knew when not to press his luck. end quote. luck. end quote. luck. end quote. Aryan says about a thousand of the Aryan says about a thousand of the Aryan says about a thousand of the defenders from inside the city had died defenders from inside the city had died defenders from inside the city had died to only about 40 Macedonians, by the to only about 40 Macedonians, by the to only about 40 Macedonians, by the way, but some named people that were way, but some named people that were way, but some named people that were remembered by their names by the ancient remembered by their names by the ancient remembered by their names by the ancient authors. authors. authors. And as Alexander pulls back for the And as Alexander pulls back for the And as Alexander pulls back for the night, Menon, we are told, decides it's night, Menon, we are told, decides it's night, Menon, we are told, decides it's time to pull back permanently. time to pull back permanently. time to pull back permanently. and he pulls the equivalent here of like and he pulls the equivalent here of like and he pulls the equivalent here of like a Dunkerk type maneuver. Remember the a Dunkerk type maneuver. Remember the a Dunkerk type maneuver. Remember the Persian fleets at anchor in the harbor Persian fleets at anchor in the harbor Persian fleets at anchor in the harbor and they just take Menon and a lot of and they just take Menon and a lot of and they just take Menon and a lot of the soldiers and a ton of the cargo the soldiers and a ton of the cargo the soldiers and a ton of the cargo apparently and maybe even a bunch of the apparently and maybe even a bunch of the apparently and maybe even a bunch of the city dwellers and they leave. Nothing city dwellers and they leave. Nothing city dwellers and they leave. Nothing Alexander can do about it cuz he Alexander can do about it cuz he Alexander can do about it cuz he disbanded his fleet and right after this disbanded his fleet and right after this disbanded his fleet and right after this time period he's going to reconstitute time period he's going to reconstitute time period he's going to reconstitute it. So may maybe decided he needed it it. So may maybe decided he needed it it. So may maybe decided he needed it after all. But there's no fleet here. So after all. But there's no fleet here. So after all. But there's no fleet here. So nothing to stop Menon and everybody from nothing to stop Menon and everybody from nothing to stop Menon and everybody from leaving. And in the morning when leaving. And in the morning when leaving. And in the morning when Alexander, you know, steps into the Alexander, you know, steps into the Alexander, you know, steps into the city, it's smoking and burning. And the city, it's smoking and burning. And the city, it's smoking and burning. And the main people who were fighting him are main people who were fighting him are main people who were fighting him are gone. They did all the damage they could gone. They did all the damage they could gone. They did all the damage they could do to him. You know, having him have to do to him. You know, having him have to do to him. You know, having him have to assault a citadel, and now they've left assault a citadel, and now they've left assault a citadel, and now they've left to fight another day.

to fight another day. to fight another day. They set fire, by the way, to the 100 They set fire, by the way, to the 100 They set fire, by the way, to the 100 cubit. That's a 150 foot uh tower that cubit. That's a 150 foot uh tower that cubit. That's a 150 foot uh tower that had all the artillery on it that the had all the artillery on it that the had all the artillery on it that the defenders were shooting the Macedonians defenders were shooting the Macedonians defenders were shooting the Macedonians with. It's burning. They burn a bunch of with. It's burning. They burn a bunch of with. It's burning. They burn a bunch of the buildings. And if you believe Ary the buildings. And if you believe Ary the buildings. And if you believe Ary and Alexander then steamrolls the entire and Alexander then steamrolls the entire and Alexander then steamrolls the entire city. Peter Green thinks this is city. Peter Green thinks this is city. Peter Green thinks this is unlikely. He'd already promised it to unlikely. He'd already promised it to unlikely. He'd already promised it to that old lady who he was calling mother. that old lady who he was calling mother. that old lady who he was calling mother. You don't want to turn a bunch of ruins You don't want to turn a bunch of ruins You don't want to turn a bunch of ruins over to her, but who knows? over to her, but who knows? over to her, but who knows? The bottom line though is that there'll The bottom line though is that there'll The bottom line though is that there'll be Persian defenders holed up in the be Persian defenders holed up in the be Persian defenders holed up in the citadels there and it's going to take citadels there and it's going to take citadels there and it's going to take Alexander's garrison like a year to Alexander's garrison like a year to Alexander's garrison like a year to weedle them out. He puts a big moat weedle them out. He puts a big moat weedle them out. He puts a big moat around it in a wall and just keeps going around it in a wall and just keeps going around it in a wall and just keeps going and so does Menan. and so does Menan. and so does Menan. And if we zoom out and try to look at And if we zoom out and try to look at And if we zoom out and try to look at the situation here and see all the the situation here and see all the the situation here and see all the pieces moving into place, uh, by now the pieces moving into place, uh, by now the pieces moving into place, uh, by now the Persian king is somewhere down probably Persian king is somewhere down probably Persian king is somewhere down probably in the area of Iraq, uh, bringing in the area of Iraq, uh, bringing in the area of Iraq, uh, bringing together an army. together an army. together an army. Menon takes the fleet and begins to go Menon takes the fleet and begins to go Menon takes the fleet and begins to go to a bunch of islands offshore. You to a bunch of islands offshore. You to a bunch of islands offshore. You know, some of the ancient authors make know, some of the ancient authors make know, some of the ancient authors make it sound like he's going to go back to it sound like he's going to go back to it sound like he's going to go back to Greece and he's going to work with the Greece and he's going to work with the Greece and he's going to work with the Spartans and he's going to start a war Spartans and he's going to start a war Spartans and he's going to start a war back at home. looks more like I mean back at home. looks more like I mean back at home. looks more like I mean Pierre Bion makes a very good case that Pierre Bion makes a very good case that Pierre Bion makes a very good case that what he's really doing here is operating what he's really doing here is operating what he's really doing here is operating nearby on these islands offshore and in nearby on these islands offshore and in nearby on these islands offshore and in some cases they're going back and some cases they're going back and some cases they're going back and retaking the places Alexander's already retaking the places Alexander's already retaking the places Alexander's already taken and moved on. They go back and taken and moved on. They go back and taken and moved on. They go back and retake Mitus for example behind him retake Mitus for example behind him retake Mitus for example behind him and you can see this Menon's going to be and you can see this Menon's going to be and you can see this Menon's going to be a problem. Unfortunately for the great

a problem. Unfortunately for the great a problem. Unfortunately for the great king he catches something during a siege king he catches something during a siege king he catches something during a siege of a city off on one of these islands of a city off on one of these islands of a city off on one of these islands off what's now the Turkish coast and off what's now the Turkish coast and off what's now the Turkish coast and dies. It's the ancient world after all. dies. It's the ancient world after all. dies. It's the ancient world after all. That can happen. That can happen. That can happen. But the Greek authors make it sound like But the Greek authors make it sound like But the Greek authors make it sound like this is like the nail in the coffin for this is like the nail in the coffin for this is like the nail in the coffin for the poor Persians because they have no the poor Persians because they have no the poor Persians because they have no good generals themselves. And now they good generals themselves. And now they good generals themselves. And now they lose this wonderful Greek general who lose this wonderful Greek general who lose this wonderful Greek general who was, you know, who had held off was, you know, who had held off was, you know, who had held off Alexander's father and now is holding Alexander's father and now is holding Alexander's father and now is holding off Alexander. And with him gone, what off Alexander. And with him gone, what off Alexander. And with him gone, what are you going to do? are you going to do? are you going to do? But meanwhile, while this is going on, But meanwhile, while this is going on, But meanwhile, while this is going on, Alexander splits his forces, sends Alexander splits his forces, sends Alexander splits his forces, sends Parmenia to some areas in the region, Parmenia to some areas in the region, Parmenia to some areas in the region, and he goes to the others. And he's and he goes to the others. And he's and he goes to the others. And he's essentially, as we had said earlier, essentially, as we had said earlier, essentially, as we had said earlier, consolidating his winnings here. And he consolidating his winnings here. And he consolidating his winnings here. And he is accepting the surrender of a lot of is accepting the surrender of a lot of is accepting the surrender of a lot of these cities and towns. I had to go look these cities and towns. I had to go look these cities and towns. I had to go look up like sizes to give myself at least up like sizes to give myself at least up like sizes to give myself at least sort of a ballpark idea what we're sort of a ballpark idea what we're sort of a ballpark idea what we're talking about. And if any of this is to talking about. And if any of this is to talking about. And if any of this is to be believed, I like that disclaimer. be believed, I like that disclaimer. be believed, I like that disclaimer. Don't you? Um, but Helicarnassis might Don't you? Um, but Helicarnassis might Don't you? Um, but Helicarnassis might have been like a 40,000 person city. have been like a 40,000 person city. have been like a 40,000 person city. Sardis, the even bigger city, might have Sardis, the even bigger city, might have Sardis, the even bigger city, might have been 50,000. some of the so-called large been 50,000. some of the so-called large been 50,000. some of the so-called large city states in this region might be 10 city states in this region might be 10 city states in this region might be 10 to 15,000 and there's a lot of like to 15,000 and there's a lot of like to 15,000 and there's a lot of like thousand person little city states and thousand person little city states and thousand person little city states and so Alexander for example will be in one so Alexander for example will be in one so Alexander for example will be in one region and there'll be like 30 of these region and there'll be like 30 of these region and there'll be like 30 of these cities that uh sort of surrender to him cities that uh sort of surrender to him cities that uh sort of surrender to him or accept you know his kingship or what or accept you know his kingship or what or accept you know his kingship or what have you. So those are small places have you. So those are small places have you. So those are small places though. The problem is is that some of though. The problem is is that some of though. The problem is is that some of these places resist and this is a hidden these places resist and this is a hidden these places resist and this is a hidden part of the Alexander story when you try

part of the Alexander story when you try part of the Alexander story when you try to figure out, you know, what's going on to figure out, you know, what's going on to figure out, you know, what's going on in between the big data points. How's he in between the big data points. How's he in between the big data points. How's he filling his time between all the big filling his time between all the big filling his time between all the big battles? He's filling his time with a battles? He's filling his time with a battles? He's filling his time with a bunch of little ones. bunch of little ones. bunch of little ones. And these are asterisks in his career. And these are asterisks in his career. And these are asterisks in his career. But if you try to imagine what it's like But if you try to imagine what it's like But if you try to imagine what it's like for the people on the other side, well, for the people on the other side, well, for the people on the other side, well, now you start to see some of the points now you start to see some of the points now you start to see some of the points of view from the uh historians from the of view from the uh historians from the of view from the uh historians from the Alexander as butcher school. Alexander as butcher school. Alexander as butcher school. And the perfect example is recounted for And the perfect example is recounted for And the perfect example is recounted for uh posterity in Diodoris's work where he uh posterity in Diodoris's work where he uh posterity in Diodoris's work where he talks about one of these people that talks about one of these people that talks about one of these people that decides to resist Alexander and uh decides to resist Alexander and uh decides to resist Alexander and uh attacks his baggage train when he's attacks his baggage train when he's attacks his baggage train when he's passing through their neck of the woods. passing through their neck of the woods. passing through their neck of the woods. So he goes to punish them. Uh it's a So he goes to punish them. Uh it's a So he goes to punish them. Uh it's a couple of days with the siege engines couple of days with the siege engines couple of days with the siege engines before those people realize they're before those people realize they're before those people realize they're doomed. And then Diodoris tells the doomed. And then Diodoris tells the doomed. And then Diodoris tells the story about the young men and it sounds story about the young men and it sounds story about the young men and it sounds like there's about 600 warriors. So this like there's about 600 warriors. So this like there's about 600 warriors. So this gives you a sample size maybe of the gives you a sample size maybe of the gives you a sample size maybe of the community. And the warriors who are the community. And the warriors who are the community. And the warriors who are the young men, Diodora says go to the old young men, Diodora says go to the old young men, Diodora says go to the old men and say what do we do? And the old men and say what do we do? And the old men and say what do we do? And the old men say surrender to Alexander under the men say surrender to Alexander under the men say surrender to Alexander under the best terms you can get. And this they best terms you can get. And this they best terms you can get. And this they refuse to do. They will not compromise refuse to do. They will not compromise refuse to do. They will not compromise their freedom. So the elders say, "Well, their freedom. So the elders say, "Well, their freedom. So the elders say, "Well, if that's going to be your position, we if that's going to be your position, we if that's going to be your position, we recommend that you kill your wives, you recommend that you kill your wives, you recommend that you kill your wives, you kill your children, and then you try to kill your children, and then you try to kill your children, and then you try to break out of the city and make for the break out of the city and make for the break out of the city and make for the nearby hills." They decide to do this.

nearby hills." They decide to do this. nearby hills." They decide to do this. And so Diodora says they decide to hold And so Diodora says they decide to hold And so Diodora says they decide to hold this last grand evening with their loved this last grand evening with their loved this last grand evening with their loved ones, the best food and drink, and and ones, the best food and drink, and and ones, the best food and drink, and and enjoy them for one last time before you enjoy them for one last time before you enjoy them for one last time before you kill them. But they decide they can't kill them. But they decide they can't kill them. But they decide they can't kill them. So they decide they're just kill them. So they decide they're just kill them. So they decide they're just going to uh keep them holed up at home going to uh keep them holed up at home going to uh keep them holed up at home and then light everything on fire. He and then light everything on fire. He and then light everything on fire. He says their homes became their tombs and says their homes became their tombs and says their homes became their tombs and then the 600 warriors break out and and then the 600 warriors break out and and then the 600 warriors break out and and run away. But I mean this gives you an run away. But I mean this gives you an run away. But I mean this gives you an idea right there. Magnify that by a lot idea right there. Magnify that by a lot idea right there. Magnify that by a lot because Alexander's whole career he's because Alexander's whole career he's because Alexander's whole career he's going to be attacking this hill people going to be attacking this hill people going to be attacking this hill people there and this river people there and there and this river people there and there and this river people there and this forest tribe there and I mean it it this forest tribe there and I mean it it this forest tribe there and I mean it it starts to add up, right? And pretty soon starts to add up, right? And pretty soon starts to add up, right? And pretty soon you're talking real numbers of human you're talking real numbers of human you're talking real numbers of human beings here. And for them, it's this beings here. And for them, it's this beings here. And for them, it's this massive worst thing that's ever happened massive worst thing that's ever happened massive worst thing that's ever happened in their, you know, people's history. in their, you know, people's history. in their, you know, people's history. For Alexander, it's on the way from this For Alexander, it's on the way from this For Alexander, it's on the way from this place to that place. place to that place. place to that place. But if you look up the pace of this But if you look up the pace of this But if you look up the pace of this winter of 334, 333 BC BCE, it it winter of 334, 333 BC BCE, it it winter of 334, 333 BC BCE, it it basically everything you'll read will basically everything you'll read will basically everything you'll read will tell you that he's in constant motion.

tell you that he's in constant motion. tell you that he's in constant motion. It is a and that these people are It is a and that these people are It is a and that these people are marching and some of this is really, you marching and some of this is really, you marching and some of this is really, you know, you're beginning to get to be know, you're beginning to get to be know, you're beginning to get to be terrible terrain through mountain passes terrible terrain through mountain passes terrible terrain through mountain passes and rain. And I mean, this is a heck of and rain. And I mean, this is a heck of and rain. And I mean, this is a heck of a pace already. a pace already. a pace already. And one of the things we can say about And one of the things we can say about And one of the things we can say about Alexander, and we'll say it this whole Alexander, and we'll say it this whole Alexander, and we'll say it this whole time, is he's not one of those guys who time, is he's not one of those guys who time, is he's not one of those guys who stays in the velvet tent by himself stays in the velvet tent by himself stays in the velvet tent by himself while having the grunts, you know, have while having the grunts, you know, have while having the grunts, you know, have to bear the brunt of all this. He's to bear the brunt of all this. He's to bear the brunt of all this. He's right there right there right there sharing every hardship, trying to be the sharing every hardship, trying to be the sharing every hardship, trying to be the first among equals. And this is clearly first among equals. And this is clearly first among equals. And this is clearly very important to him. So when he fights very important to him. So when he fights very important to him. So when he fights even these little battles against these even these little battles against these even these little battles against these peoples who are nobody, he's right there peoples who are nobody, he's right there peoples who are nobody, he's right there in the front. It's crazy. in the front. It's crazy. in the front. It's crazy. It's during this time period between It's during this time period between It's during this time period between Hocarnasses Hocarnasses Hocarnasses and uh and reaching Gordium, more on and uh and reaching Gordium, more on and uh and reaching Gordium, more on that in a second, where Alexander at one that in a second, where Alexander at one that in a second, where Alexander at one point sends a bunch of the young men point sends a bunch of the young men point sends a bunch of the young men who've been fighting with him home to who've been fighting with him home to who've been fighting with him home to get married, right? and have children get married, right? and have children get married, right? and have children and to send back reinforcements. So, we and to send back reinforcements. So, we and to send back reinforcements. So, we said earlier that unlike a a modern army said earlier that unlike a a modern army said earlier that unlike a a modern army where there's reinforcements and people where there's reinforcements and people where there's reinforcements and people rotating out all the time, there are rotating out all the time, there are rotating out all the time, there are just intervals where this happens and just intervals where this happens and just intervals where this happens and this is one of them. So, some people go this is one of them. So, some people go this is one of them. So, some people go home uh several thousand men will arrive home uh several thousand men will arrive home uh several thousand men will arrive uh uh pretty soon to help bolster the uh uh pretty soon to help bolster the uh uh pretty soon to help bolster the ranks of the people who've been fighting ranks of the people who've been fighting ranks of the people who've been fighting all this time.

all this time. all this time. And then during this little interlude And then during this little interlude And then during this little interlude that we're in right now, we get that that we're in right now, we get that that we're in right now, we get that fabulous story of Alexander running into fabulous story of Alexander running into fabulous story of Alexander running into the Gordian knot. the Gordian knot. the Gordian knot. The Gordian knot story for those of you The Gordian knot story for those of you The Gordian knot story for those of you who can see a lot of similar ones around who can see a lot of similar ones around who can see a lot of similar ones around history. It's the Excalibur sword and history. It's the Excalibur sword and history. It's the Excalibur sword and the stone story, isn't it? I mean, well, the stone story, isn't it? I mean, well, the stone story, isn't it? I mean, well, the sword and the stone is not really the sword and the stone is not really the sword and the stone is not really Excalibur, but you know the story. I Excalibur, but you know the story. I Excalibur, but you know the story. I mean, he gets the Excalibur from the mean, he gets the Excalibur from the mean, he gets the Excalibur from the Lady of the Lake later, but that's Lady of the Lake later, but that's Lady of the Lake later, but that's neither here nor there. neither here nor there. neither here nor there. But in terms of the Gordian not But in terms of the Gordian not But in terms of the Gordian not the one who is able to solve this the one who is able to solve this the one who is able to solve this problem is destined to rule the world or problem is destined to rule the world or problem is destined to rule the world or what have you. what have you. what have you. There are a couple of different stories. There are a couple of different stories. There are a couple of different stories. Plutarch tells both of them. Um the the Plutarch tells both of them. Um the the Plutarch tells both of them. Um the the less satisfying one is that he's less satisfying one is that he's less satisfying one is that he's confronted with this knot that you can't confronted with this knot that you can't confronted with this knot that you can't see the ends of that's uh hitched to see the ends of that's uh hitched to see the ends of that's uh hitched to like a yolk on a wagon and people have like a yolk on a wagon and people have like a yolk on a wagon and people have been trying to untie it forever and been trying to untie it forever and been trying to untie it forever and nobody can even figure out what to do nobody can even figure out what to do nobody can even figure out what to do and so Alexander's you know surmising and so Alexander's you know surmising and so Alexander's you know surmising the situation and the uh less satisfying the situation and the uh less satisfying the situation and the uh less satisfying answer uh Aristobulus uh Plutarch says answer uh Aristobulus uh Plutarch says answer uh Aristobulus uh Plutarch says gives this answer is that he simply gives this answer is that he simply gives this answer is that he simply pulled out uh the the yolk part that was pulled out uh the the yolk part that was pulled out uh the the yolk part that was holding it all together and it just sort holding it all together and it just sort holding it all together and it just sort of came apart which seems a little easy of came apart which seems a little easy of came apart which seems a little easy and very unsatisfying. The other and very unsatisfying. The other and very unsatisfying. The other tradition is that he just pulled his tradition is that he just pulled his tradition is that he just pulled his sword out and chopped it which of course sword out and chopped it which of course sword out and chopped it which of course is sort of significant about concerning is sort of significant about concerning is sort of significant about concerning the methods by which he's going to the methods by which he's going to the methods by which he's going to secure Asia. Right? It's it's a little

secure Asia. Right? It's it's a little secure Asia. Right? It's it's a little like the sword and the stone situation like the sword and the stone situation like the sword and the stone situation if you just decided to take a jackhammer if you just decided to take a jackhammer if you just decided to take a jackhammer to the stone. I'll get that sword up by to the stone. I'll get that sword up by to the stone. I'll get that sword up by eliminating the stone itself. eliminating the stone itself. eliminating the stone itself. I was reading one historian who had an I was reading one historian who had an I was reading one historian who had an interesting line and he was tying it to interesting line and he was tying it to interesting line and he was tying it to one of the ancient historians, but he one of the ancient historians, but he one of the ancient historians, but he was saying that this is a new rationale was saying that this is a new rationale was saying that this is a new rationale for why Alexander is involved in this for why Alexander is involved in this for why Alexander is involved in this war. Right? We need to change the war. Right? We need to change the war. Right? We need to change the rationale. This whole idea of making the rationale. This whole idea of making the rationale. This whole idea of making the number one reason we're doing all this number one reason we're doing all this number one reason we're doing all this is to liberate the Greek citystates of is to liberate the Greek citystates of is to liberate the Greek citystates of Ionia is getting well getting kind of Ionia is getting well getting kind of Ionia is getting well getting kind of tired now that Alexander's basically tired now that Alexander's basically tired now that Alexander's basically done that. Never mind the reconquest of done that. Never mind the reconquest of done that. Never mind the reconquest of some of these cities on the coast. some of these cities on the coast. some of these cities on the coast. Basically though, if that's your reason Basically though, if that's your reason Basically though, if that's your reason for the war, why would you go on from for the war, why would you go on from for the war, why would you go on from here? Well, if another person who's able here? Well, if another person who's able here? Well, if another person who's able to deal with that Gordian not situation to deal with that Gordian not situation to deal with that Gordian not situation is the one destined to rule all of Asia, is the one destined to rule all of Asia, is the one destined to rule all of Asia, well, there you go. There's your well, there you go. There's your well, there you go. There's your rationale right there. And we should rationale right there. And we should rationale right there. And we should point out that based on what the Greeks point out that based on what the Greeks point out that based on what the Greeks knew of the world, I mean, as far as knew of the world, I mean, as far as knew of the world, I mean, as far as they're concerned, they're concerned, they're concerned, ruling all of Asia is a little like that ruling all of Asia is a little like that ruling all of Asia is a little like that deal that the Spanish and the Portuguese deal that the Spanish and the Portuguese deal that the Spanish and the Portuguese got from the Pope where the Pope got from the Pope where the Pope got from the Pope where the Pope basically told them, you know, from this basically told them, you know, from this basically told them, you know, from this line this way and from that line that line this way and from that line that line this way and from that line that way, you guys own the world when you way, you guys own the world when you way, you guys own the world when you didn't even know what was in the world.

didn't even know what was in the world. didn't even know what was in the world. You have claims of territories you You have claims of territories you You have claims of territories you haven't even discovered yet. That's what haven't even discovered yet. That's what haven't even discovered yet. That's what the Gordian knots telling Alexander if the Gordian knots telling Alexander if the Gordian knots telling Alexander if we buy that rationale. we buy that rationale. we buy that rationale. But clearly if the pope can do it in the But clearly if the pope can do it in the But clearly if the pope can do it in the age of discovery it's not a new idea age of discovery it's not a new idea age of discovery it's not a new idea right now. There's some things that happen now. There's some things that happen during this little interlude when we are during this little interlude when we are during this little interlude when we are sort of collecting our winnings as I sort of collecting our winnings as I sort of collecting our winnings as I said in what's now modernday Turkey uh said in what's now modernday Turkey uh said in what's now modernday Turkey uh and the clash the inevitable clash and the clash the inevitable clash and the clash the inevitable clash that's coming when the army that the that's coming when the army that the that's coming when the army that the great king of Persia is raising in great king of Persia is raising in great king of Persia is raising in Babylon which is in modern day Iraq uh Babylon which is in modern day Iraq uh Babylon which is in modern day Iraq uh you know comes northward to deal with you know comes northward to deal with you know comes northward to deal with Alexander. Alexander, as we said, is Alexander. Alexander, as we said, is Alexander. Alexander, as we said, is fighting this whole time. fighting this whole time. fighting this whole time. And at some point, according to the And at some point, according to the And at some point, according to the ancient authors, but it would make total ancient authors, but it would make total ancient authors, but it would make total sense, the great king puts a huge bounty sense, the great king puts a huge bounty sense, the great king puts a huge bounty on Alexander's head. on Alexander's head. on Alexander's head. One of the ancient sources says it is a One of the ancient sources says it is a One of the ancient sources says it is a thousand gold talents, which if true, thousand gold talents, which if true, thousand gold talents, which if true, that sounds like a crazy Persia so rich that sounds like a crazy Persia so rich that sounds like a crazy Persia so rich you can't believe it kind of you can't believe it kind of you can't believe it kind of exaggeration because that's like the, exaggeration because that's like the, exaggeration because that's like the, you know, money that nation states have.

you know, money that nation states have. you know, money that nation states have. I mean, that's just that level of money. I mean, that's just that level of money. I mean, that's just that level of money. If we, you know, havedved it by 75%, If we, you know, havedved it by 75%, If we, you know, havedved it by 75%, it's an outrageous amount of money still it's an outrageous amount of money still it's an outrageous amount of money still for an individual to have. That assumes, for an individual to have. That assumes, for an individual to have. That assumes, of course, that you could ever have of course, that you could ever have of course, that you could ever have something by 75%. something by 75%. something by 75%. Nonetheless, a lot of people want to Nonetheless, a lot of people want to Nonetheless, a lot of people want to kill Alexander. And there are some kill Alexander. And there are some kill Alexander. And there are some stories that occur during this interlude stories that occur during this interlude stories that occur during this interlude period, right? We're in early 333 period, right? We're in early 333 period, right? We're in early 333 BCE, which kind of show the BCE, which kind of show the BCE, which kind of show the precariousness precariousness precariousness of the life of a great conqueror. Right? of the life of a great conqueror. Right? of the life of a great conqueror. Right? They're they're a little to me like They're they're a little to me like They're they're a little to me like those little sea turtles that have to those little sea turtles that have to those little sea turtles that have to hatch on the coast and they can't be a hatch on the coast and they can't be a hatch on the coast and they can't be a great conqueror until they deal with all great conqueror until they deal with all great conqueror until they deal with all of the things that might kill them or of the things that might kill them or of the things that might kill them or derail their career or what have you derail their career or what have you derail their career or what have you before they reach the safety of the sea. before they reach the safety of the sea. before they reach the safety of the sea. How many great conquerors were there who How many great conquerors were there who How many great conquerors were there who would have been as great as an Alexander would have been as great as an Alexander would have been as great as an Alexander and Napoleon, but they died along the and Napoleon, but they died along the and Napoleon, but they died along the way? way? way? Killed in combat, assassinated, felled Killed in combat, assassinated, felled Killed in combat, assassinated, felled by disease. by disease. by disease. Alexander's in danger of all three of Alexander's in danger of all three of Alexander's in danger of all three of those things.

those things. those things. I mean, let's just talk about I mean, let's just talk about I mean, let's just talk about assassination first. Somebody puts a assassination first. Somebody puts a assassination first. Somebody puts a thousand gold talent bounty on your thousand gold talent bounty on your thousand gold talent bounty on your head. It's a real danger anyway. And uh head. It's a real danger anyway. And uh head. It's a real danger anyway. And uh we described the Macedonian royal court we described the Macedonian royal court we described the Macedonian royal court as having a sort of mafia crime family as having a sort of mafia crime family as having a sort of mafia crime family type feel. Uh so getting whacked is not type feel. Uh so getting whacked is not type feel. Uh so getting whacked is not unusual. Let's recall that's what unusual. Let's recall that's what unusual. Let's recall that's what happened to Alexander's dad. And and happened to Alexander's dad. And and happened to Alexander's dad. And and Alexander always blamed the king of Alexander always blamed the king of Alexander always blamed the king of Persia for his involvement in that. And Persia for his involvement in that. And Persia for his involvement in that. And listen, I mean, what are the odds? As we listen, I mean, what are the odds? As we listen, I mean, what are the odds? As we said, you're going to kill the greatest said, you're going to kill the greatest said, you're going to kill the greatest man of his age and his kid's going to be man of his age and his kid's going to be man of his age and his kid's going to be bigger than he is. Maybe you just keep bigger than he is. Maybe you just keep bigger than he is. Maybe you just keep doing that till you get a loser, till doing that till you get a loser, till doing that till you get a loser, till you get a lemon. you get a lemon. you get a lemon. Alexander gets a letter from his mother Alexander gets a letter from his mother Alexander gets a letter from his mother according to Diodoris. And remember, you according to Diodoris. And remember, you according to Diodoris. And remember, you know, Alexander's mother is a character know, Alexander's mother is a character know, Alexander's mother is a character that different people play with that different people play with that different people play with differently, but there's a Game of differently, but there's a Game of differently, but there's a Game of Thrones kind of feel to the way she Thrones kind of feel to the way she Thrones kind of feel to the way she handles things. and she's back in handles things. and she's back in handles things. and she's back in Macedonia fighting with one of the two Macedonia fighting with one of the two Macedonia fighting with one of the two great generals that Alexander inherited great generals that Alexander inherited great generals that Alexander inherited from his dad. Right? One's Parminio and from his dad. Right? One's Parminio and from his dad. Right? One's Parminio and he's here with Alexander doing all this he's here with Alexander doing all this he's here with Alexander doing all this stuff, but he left the other one in stuff, but he left the other one in stuff, but he left the other one in charge of, you know, home base, right?

charge of, you know, home base, right? charge of, you know, home base, right? Antiper. Antiper. Antiper. These guys are ancient. And Antiper and These guys are ancient. And Antiper and These guys are ancient. And Antiper and Olympus are always sort of fighting with Olympus are always sort of fighting with Olympus are always sort of fighting with each other. And her letters back to each other. And her letters back to each other. And her letters back to Alexander often complain of Antiper. And Alexander often complain of Antiper. And Alexander often complain of Antiper. And sometimes his letters complain about sometimes his letters complain about sometimes his letters complain about her. But you got to be careful. got to her. But you got to be careful. got to her. But you got to be careful. got to be careful insulting the king's mother be careful insulting the king's mother be careful insulting the king's mother when he has a special relationship with when he has a special relationship with when he has a special relationship with her. But Diodoris says she sends a her. But Diodoris says she sends a her. But Diodoris says she sends a letter with all kinds of useful letter with all kinds of useful letter with all kinds of useful information, including a warning about, information, including a warning about, information, including a warning about, you know, needing to be careful of you know, needing to be careful of you know, needing to be careful of Antiper's son-in-law who is with Antiper's son-in-law who is with Antiper's son-in-law who is with Alexander, who commands an important Alexander, who commands an important Alexander, who commands an important unit and who's a by all accounts a great unit and who's a by all accounts a great unit and who's a by all accounts a great man and a great leader. But she tells man and a great leader. But she tells man and a great leader. But she tells him to be careful and so he arrests him him to be careful and so he arrests him him to be careful and so he arrests him and takes him around with the army for a and takes him around with the army for a and takes him around with the army for a long time in captivity. They usually long time in captivity. They usually long time in captivity. They usually torture people in these situations. Uh torture people in these situations. Uh torture people in these situations. Uh but we should recall that Alexander's but we should recall that Alexander's but we should recall that Alexander's already killed this guy's two brothers. already killed this guy's two brothers. already killed this guy's two brothers. Killed him when he became king on Killed him when he became king on Killed him when he became king on charges that they were involved in his charges that they were involved in his charges that they were involved in his dad's assassination. So I mean what you dad's assassination. So I mean what you dad's assassination. So I mean what you start to see here is a combination of start to see here is a combination of start to see here is a combination of the normal amount of what did we call it the normal amount of what did we call it the normal amount of what did we call it earlier? Pruning that a Macedonian king earlier? Pruning that a Macedonian king earlier? Pruning that a Macedonian king does on his family tree. uh because it's does on his family tree. uh because it's does on his family tree. uh because it's been proven over and over how dangerous been proven over and over how dangerous been proven over and over how dangerous your close relatives are to you in that your close relatives are to you in that your close relatives are to you in that system. But somewhere along the line, system. But somewhere along the line, system. But somewhere along the line, and you know, intelligent folk may and you know, intelligent folk may and you know, intelligent folk may differ on the exact point, we're going differ on the exact point, we're going differ on the exact point, we're going to go from a reasonable amount of to go from a reasonable amount of to go from a reasonable amount of pruning and suspicion to an unreasonable pruning and suspicion to an unreasonable pruning and suspicion to an unreasonable amount of paranoia, amount of paranoia, amount of paranoia, but that old line that it's not really but that old line that it's not really but that old line that it's not really paranoia if they are out to get you

paranoia if they are out to get you paranoia if they are out to get you totally applies to Alexander. And a totally applies to Alexander. And a totally applies to Alexander. And a thousand gold talent bounty on your head thousand gold talent bounty on your head thousand gold talent bounty on your head is going to, you know, give a lot of is going to, you know, give a lot of is going to, you know, give a lot of incentive to a lot of people to try to incentive to a lot of people to try to incentive to a lot of people to try to get you. And it creates all sorts of get you. And it creates all sorts of get you. And it creates all sorts of suspicion within the ranks, doesn't it? suspicion within the ranks, doesn't it? suspicion within the ranks, doesn't it? I mean, there's going to be another sign I mean, there's going to be another sign I mean, there's going to be another sign of just how precarious life is in the of just how precarious life is in the of just how precarious life is in the ancient world for someone in Alexander's ancient world for someone in Alexander's ancient world for someone in Alexander's position where we're told that as he's position where we're told that as he's position where we're told that as he's marching uh through some of these areas, marching uh through some of these areas, marching uh through some of these areas, it's beginning to be the summer of 333 it's beginning to be the summer of 333 it's beginning to be the summer of 333 and it's hot as heck. And he's in full and it's hot as heck. And he's in full and it's hot as heck. And he's in full armor, we're told, and he decides to armor, we're told, and he decides to armor, we're told, and he decides to jump off a bridge into a river uh that jump off a bridge into a river uh that jump off a bridge into a river uh that looks very inviting in full armor, by looks very inviting in full armor, by looks very inviting in full armor, by the way, supposedly. uh and he had been the way, supposedly. uh and he had been the way, supposedly. uh and he had been warned that this river's uh water comes warned that this river's uh water comes warned that this river's uh water comes directly from sort of the snowy mountain directly from sort of the snowy mountain directly from sort of the snowy mountain heights and it's ice cold. He didn't heights and it's ice cold. He didn't heights and it's ice cold. He didn't listen. He jumps in. Boom. We have a listen. He jumps in. Boom. We have a listen. He jumps in. Boom. We have a disaster on our hands. disaster on our hands. disaster on our hands. He starts like having convulsions and He starts like having convulsions and He starts like having convulsions and he's cold cramped up and cold and and he's cold cramped up and cold and and he's cold cramped up and cold and and they fish him out of the river and they they fish him out of the river and they they fish him out of the river and they take him in and within they make it take him in and within they make it take him in and within they make it sound like it's virtually immediately sound like it's virtually immediately sound like it's virtually immediately but within a day or two he's got but within a day or two he's got but within a day or two he's got something. Welcome to the ancient world. something. Welcome to the ancient world. something. Welcome to the ancient world. You can get this now, but in the ancient You can get this now, but in the ancient You can get this now, but in the ancient world, uh, there are some thoughts that world, uh, there are some thoughts that world, uh, there are some thoughts that maybe it's malaria.

maybe it's malaria. maybe it's malaria. These sorts of health things are going These sorts of health things are going These sorts of health things are going to follow Alexander around, but it's a to follow Alexander around, but it's a to follow Alexander around, but it's a sign of just how amazing it is any of sign of just how amazing it is any of sign of just how amazing it is any of these guys live very long with all the these guys live very long with all the these guys live very long with all the things out there. Alexander has a things out there. Alexander has a things out there. Alexander has a doctor. As we've said before, some of doctor. As we've said before, some of doctor. As we've said before, some of these ancient people didn't seem to have these ancient people didn't seem to have these ancient people didn't seem to have a whole lot of names in their baby books a whole lot of names in their baby books a whole lot of names in their baby books because we keep recycling the same ones. because we keep recycling the same ones. because we keep recycling the same ones. The same name as his dad, a doctor named The same name as his dad, a doctor named The same name as his dad, a doctor named Philillip. And the story is that none of Philillip. And the story is that none of Philillip. And the story is that none of these doctors want to treat Alexander these doctors want to treat Alexander these doctors want to treat Alexander because they're scared to death that if because they're scared to death that if because they're scared to death that if he dies, they're going to get blamed for he dies, they're going to get blamed for he dies, they're going to get blamed for it and lose their lives, right? He's too it and lose their lives, right? He's too it and lose their lives, right? He's too dangerous to treat. And this one doctor dangerous to treat. And this one doctor dangerous to treat. And this one doctor who's known Alexander apparently a long who's known Alexander apparently a long who's known Alexander apparently a long time, Philillip, uh he prescribes this, time, Philillip, uh he prescribes this, time, Philillip, uh he prescribes this, you know, concoction that's going to be you know, concoction that's going to be you know, concoction that's going to be apparently really hard on you, but then apparently really hard on you, but then apparently really hard on you, but then you'll get fixed. And Alexander says you'll get fixed. And Alexander says you'll get fixed. And Alexander says he's going to take it. And the story is he's going to take it. And the story is he's going to take it. And the story is that he's mixing up the concoction just that he's mixing up the concoction just that he's mixing up the concoction just as a note arrives from Parminio saying, as a note arrives from Parminio saying, as a note arrives from Parminio saying, "Be careful of this doctor." You know, "Be careful of this doctor." You know, "Be careful of this doctor." You know, implying that he might be in on the implying that he might be in on the implying that he might be in on the 10,000 talents trying to assassinate 10,000 talents trying to assassinate 10,000 talents trying to assassinate you. And the doctor hands the potion to you. And the doctor hands the potion to you. And the doctor hands the potion to Alexander. Alexander hands the letter Alexander. Alexander hands the letter Alexander. Alexander hands the letter from Parmenia warning about the doctor from Parmenia warning about the doctor from Parmenia warning about the doctor to the doctor. As the doctor's reading to the doctor. As the doctor's reading to the doctor. As the doctor's reading the letter containing the warning, the letter containing the warning, the letter containing the warning, Alexander drinks the concoction, Alexander drinks the concoction, Alexander drinks the concoction, looking him right in the eye. That's how looking him right in the eye. That's how looking him right in the eye. That's how you do it in your movie, by the way, if you do it in your movie, by the way, if you do it in your movie, by the way, if you're planning on framing this.

you're planning on framing this. you're planning on framing this. But this is part of why, you know, the But this is part of why, you know, the But this is part of why, you know, the part that we like about this guy. Those part that we like about this guy. Those part that we like about this guy. Those are the and you don't know if they're are the and you don't know if they're are the and you don't know if they're true or not, but continually there will true or not, but continually there will true or not, but continually there will be things like this that suggest that be things like this that suggest that be things like this that suggest that this is the guy's personality. He he's this is the guy's personality. He he's this is the guy's personality. He he's got a flare for sort of this kind of got a flare for sort of this kind of got a flare for sort of this kind of thing or the people who wrote the thing or the people who wrote the thing or the people who wrote the history about him have a flare for history about him have a flare for history about him have a flare for setting up such such such situations. setting up such such such situations. setting up such such such situations. I'm not even including, by the way, we I'm not even including, by the way, we I'm not even including, by the way, we should just do this as like a footnote. should just do this as like a footnote. should just do this as like a footnote. I'm not including all the romantic I'm not including all the romantic I'm not including all the romantic stories about Alexander, which could be stories about Alexander, which could be stories about Alexander, which could be plausibly true, too. But I mean, there plausibly true, too. But I mean, there plausibly true, too. But I mean, there are always stories about him, like he are always stories about him, like he are always stories about him, like he and the army come to this one area where and the army come to this one area where and the army come to this one area where the there the the water is like um the there the the water is like um the there the the water is like um bashing up against the the cliffs and bashing up against the the cliffs and bashing up against the the cliffs and there's no room to march. There's no there's no room to march. There's no there's no room to march. There's no beach, but you know, the wind changes beach, but you know, the wind changes beach, but you know, the wind changes and Alexander is able to like Moses and Alexander is able to like Moses and Alexander is able to like Moses parting the Red Sea. the sea holds back parting the Red Sea. the sea holds back parting the Red Sea. the sea holds back from hitting the coastline so that his from hitting the coastline so that his from hitting the coastline so that his army has space to march on. I mean, I I army has space to march on. I mean, I I army has space to march on. I mean, I I don't know what to do with some of that don't know what to do with some of that don't know what to do with some of that stuff, but there's a ton of romance and stuff, but there's a ton of romance and stuff, but there's a ton of romance and magic and other things that come into magic and other things that come into magic and other things that come into the Alexander story from time to time.

the Alexander story from time to time. the Alexander story from time to time. And there's a twilight zone between the And there's a twilight zone between the And there's a twilight zone between the reality and the magic where it could be reality and the magic where it could be reality and the magic where it could be true and it's difficult to know how to true and it's difficult to know how to true and it's difficult to know how to deal with. And as we've said many times deal with. And as we've said many times deal with. And as we've said many times in many shows, a lot of this stuff can in many shows, a lot of this stuff can in many shows, a lot of this stuff can affect reality. Even if it's not true, affect reality. Even if it's not true, affect reality. Even if it's not true, if the people in the story think it is if the people in the story think it is if the people in the story think it is magic, as we've said, if you believe it, magic, as we've said, if you believe it, magic, as we've said, if you believe it, it has power. it has power. it has power. So this sickness of Alexander is So this sickness of Alexander is So this sickness of Alexander is significant. I mean, the ancient authors significant. I mean, the ancient authors significant. I mean, the ancient authors talk about it. It lasts for a while. And talk about it. It lasts for a while. And talk about it. It lasts for a while. And he's not the kind of guy who sits down he's not the kind of guy who sits down he's not the kind of guy who sits down and rests. and rests. and rests. Whatever this was, it was serious Whatever this was, it was serious Whatever this was, it was serious enough. Uh so that there's suggestions enough. Uh so that there's suggestions enough. Uh so that there's suggestions maybe in the Persian court according to maybe in the Persian court according to maybe in the Persian court according to the ancient authors that maybe this guy the ancient authors that maybe this guy the ancient authors that maybe this guy will die could be problem solved. will die could be problem solved. will die could be problem solved. He recovers. We're told and then if you He recovers. We're told and then if you He recovers. We're told and then if you pay attention to an element to his life pay attention to an element to his life pay attention to an element to his life uh that's worth paying attention to, uh that's worth paying attention to, uh that's worth paying attention to, you'll note that even when it's almost you'll note that even when it's almost you'll note that even when it's almost seemingly like we're between things seemingly like we're between things seemingly like we're between things happening in the story, Alexander is happening in the story, Alexander is happening in the story, Alexander is actually out in the field fighting.

actually out in the field fighting. actually out in the field fighting. I mean, they'll mention a week-long, it I mean, they'll mention a week-long, it I mean, they'll mention a week-long, it seems like, I think that's that's seems like, I think that's that's seems like, I think that's that's labeling it correctly, guerilla campaign labeling it correctly, guerilla campaign labeling it correctly, guerilla campaign that Alexander will fight in Kikia as that Alexander will fight in Kikia as that Alexander will fight in Kikia as he's on his way down to what's sort of he's on his way down to what's sort of he's on his way down to what's sort of um we would call it just north of Syria um we would call it just north of Syria um we would call it just north of Syria today, that area. But he'll leave most today, that area. But he'll leave most today, that area. But he'll leave most of the army to sort of rest, take a of the army to sort of rest, take a of the army to sort of rest, take a picked force of men, spend about seven picked force of men, spend about seven picked force of men, spend about seven days in the hills trying to chase down days in the hills trying to chase down days in the hills trying to chase down Kikian gerillas, and again, he's in the Kikian gerillas, and again, he's in the Kikian gerillas, and again, he's in the front rank. you think about well first front rank. you think about well first front rank. you think about well first of all I always figure he's killing at of all I always figure he's killing at of all I always figure he's killing at least one person on all these least one person on all these least one person on all these expeditions personally so there's single expeditions personally so there's single expeditions personally so there's single combat going on there was an old boxing combat going on there was an old boxing combat going on there was an old boxing line that I read once where it was a line that I read once where it was a line that I read once where it was a trainer talking and he said something to trainer talking and he said something to trainer talking and he said something to the effect of keep track of the wear and the effect of keep track of the wear and the effect of keep track of the wear and tear right keep track of the damage as tear right keep track of the damage as tear right keep track of the damage as it begins to add up right there's acute it begins to add up right there's acute it begins to add up right there's acute damage like you get hit in the head and damage like you get hit in the head and damage like you get hit in the head and you you're unconscious and you're you you're unconscious and you're you you're unconscious and you're affected for the rest of your life acute affected for the rest of your life acute affected for the rest of your life acute damage but then there's the accumulated damage but then there's the accumulated damage but then there's the accumulated damage right this This is where we damage right this This is where we damage right this This is where we talked a couple of installments ago talked a couple of installments ago talked a couple of installments ago about possible CTE building up over about possible CTE building up over about possible CTE building up over time. Um there's a lot of fighting and time. Um there's a lot of fighting and time. Um there's a lot of fighting and Alexander's in the midst of it. He Alexander's in the midst of it. He Alexander's in the midst of it. He there's something going on where either there's something going on where either there's something going on where either he feels compelled to be there or he he feels compelled to be there or he he feels compelled to be there or he couldn't stand the idea of not being couldn't stand the idea of not being couldn't stand the idea of not being there. He either loves it or feels like there. He either loves it or feels like there. He either loves it or feels like to be the guy he has to be he has to be to be the guy he has to be he has to be to be the guy he has to be he has to be seen to be in the front rank or maybe a seen to be in the front rank or maybe a seen to be in the front rank or maybe a combination of the two, right?

combination of the two, right? combination of the two, right? expectations and his own enjoyment of expectations and his own enjoyment of expectations and his own enjoyment of it. Because I I have to believe it would it. Because I I have to believe it would it. Because I I have to believe it would have been okay from time to time for him have been okay from time to time for him have been okay from time to time for him to say, "Uh, listen, we just got here. to say, "Uh, listen, we just got here. to say, "Uh, listen, we just got here. I'm going to meet with the men and do I'm going to meet with the men and do I'm going to meet with the men and do some strategizing. Send a little force some strategizing. Send a little force some strategizing. Send a little force out there and deal with those Kikian out there and deal with those Kikian out there and deal with those Kikian gorillas in the hills, but you have to gorillas in the hills, but you have to gorillas in the hills, but you have to do it yourself." It's going to be an do it yourself." It's going to be an do it yourself." It's going to be an interesting aspect of this guy. At least interesting aspect of this guy. At least interesting aspect of this guy. At least I think it is. But keep track of the I think it is. But keep track of the I think it is. But keep track of the wear and tear between the big battles. wear and tear between the big battles. wear and tear between the big battles. Speaking of big battles, by this time, Speaking of big battles, by this time, Speaking of big battles, by this time, summer of 333 B.CE, as Alexander is summer of 333 B.CE, as Alexander is summer of 333 B.CE, as Alexander is still probably feeling the after effects still probably feeling the after effects still probably feeling the after effects of this illness and recovering, the of this illness and recovering, the of this illness and recovering, the great king of Persia and his army gets great king of Persia and his army gets great king of Persia and his army gets on the move. on the move. on the move. And I have a little bit of a dilemma And I have a little bit of a dilemma And I have a little bit of a dilemma with something like this in that I've with something like this in that I've with something like this in that I've done a show where I've talked about done a show where I've talked about done a show where I've talked about what's about to happen here before and what's about to happen here before and what's about to happen here before and some people have heard me talk about it some people have heard me talk about it some people have heard me talk about it before and some people haven't. And I before and some people haven't. And I before and some people haven't. And I need to talk about this in a way that need to talk about this in a way that need to talk about this in a way that satisfies both of those different satisfies both of those different satisfies both of those different groups, but I'm going to use one line groups, but I'm going to use one line groups, but I'm going to use one line because I've always found it so amazing because I've always found it so amazing because I've always found it so amazing that I I know I used in Kings of Kings that I I know I used in Kings of Kings that I I know I used in Kings of Kings 3, but it's about how rare this event is 3, but it's about how rare this event is 3, but it's about how rare this event is to the people in this region, right? To to the people in this region, right? To to the people in this region, right? To see the great king leading the royal see the great king leading the royal see the great king leading the royal army into this neck of the woods. Pierre army into this neck of the woods. Pierre army into this neck of the woods. Pierre Briant, I think it was, said it hadn't Briant, I think it was, said it hadn't Briant, I think it was, said it hadn't happened in 150 years.

happened in 150 years. happened in 150 years. Now, that's fascinating to me for any Now, that's fascinating to me for any Now, that's fascinating to me for any number of reasons. I mean, the first number of reasons. I mean, the first number of reasons. I mean, the first thing that I think about is I do the thing that I think about is I do the thing that I think about is I do the math. I mean, the Persian Empire is only math. I mean, the Persian Empire is only math. I mean, the Persian Empire is only 200 years old at Alexander's time 200 years old at Alexander's time 200 years old at Alexander's time period. Well, if you haven't seen a period. Well, if you haven't seen a period. Well, if you haven't seen a royal army in 150 years, that means you royal army in 150 years, that means you royal army in 150 years, that means you haven't seen a royal army throughout haven't seen a royal army throughout haven't seen a royal army throughout most of the history of the Persian most of the history of the Persian most of the history of the Persian Empire in that region. Means nobody Empire in that region. Means nobody Empire in that region. Means nobody living has ever seen one. living has ever seen one. living has ever seen one. It really emphasizes, doesn't it, this It really emphasizes, doesn't it, this It really emphasizes, doesn't it, this idea about how it's sort of like a idea about how it's sort of like a idea about how it's sort of like a company that runs each of its different company that runs each of its different company that runs each of its different districts with its own regional vice districts with its own regional vice districts with its own regional vice presidents and there's no interference presidents and there's no interference presidents and there's no interference from the uh royal government unless from the uh royal government unless from the uh royal government unless there needs to be. And in the Persian there needs to be. And in the Persian there needs to be. And in the Persian Empire, and I believe we mentioned this Empire, and I believe we mentioned this Empire, and I believe we mentioned this in one of the earlier installments, the in one of the earlier installments, the in one of the earlier installments, the Persian Empire is kind of like an apex Persian Empire is kind of like an apex Persian Empire is kind of like an apex predator, like a fat and happy apex predator, like a fat and happy apex predator, like a fat and happy apex predator, one that might not be able to predator, one that might not be able to predator, one that might not be able to defend itself against another apex defend itself against another apex defend itself against another apex predator, but it doesn't have anybody predator, but it doesn't have anybody predator, but it doesn't have anybody like that. like that. like that. They face problems with revolts. They They face problems with revolts. They They face problems with revolts. They face problems with sat traps going face problems with sat traps going face problems with sat traps going rogue. They face problems with, you rogue. They face problems with, you rogue. They face problems with, you know, the dynasty and the royal know, the dynasty and the royal know, the dynasty and the royal succession and civil wars and stuff like succession and civil wars and stuff like succession and civil wars and stuff like that. But they don't face and have not that. But they don't face and have not that. But they don't face and have not faced throughout their entire history faced throughout their entire history faced throughout their entire history somebody threatening their existence, an somebody threatening their existence, an somebody threatening their existence, an existential threat from another state existential threat from another state existential threat from another state until now.

until now. until now. And it's at about this time that even And it's at about this time that even And it's at about this time that even the people who've delayed the longest the people who've delayed the longest the people who've delayed the longest suggesting that the Persian king is not suggesting that the Persian king is not suggesting that the Persian king is not taking this seriously uh now understand taking this seriously uh now understand taking this seriously uh now understand that he is. And there have been people that he is. And there have been people that he is. And there have been people who've been suggesting he's been taking who've been suggesting he's been taking who've been suggesting he's been taking it seriously the whole time. it seriously the whole time. it seriously the whole time. And because you don't know things like And because you don't know things like And because you don't know things like when the Persian army departed from when the Persian army departed from when the Persian army departed from Babylon, you know, to head up to where Babylon, you know, to head up to where Babylon, you know, to head up to where Alexander is, you know, north of modern Alexander is, you know, north of modern Alexander is, you know, north of modern day Syria. It's about 600 miles. because day Syria. It's about 600 miles. because day Syria. It's about 600 miles. because you don't know when that army left. Uh you don't know when that army left. Uh you don't know when that army left. Uh there's a lot of other things you can't there's a lot of other things you can't there's a lot of other things you can't figure out. I was reading my Alexander figure out. I was reading my Alexander figure out. I was reading my Alexander the Great and the logistics of the the Great and the logistics of the the Great and the logistics of the Macedonian army by Donald W. Engles and Macedonian army by Donald W. Engles and Macedonian army by Donald W. Engles and he said that the you know trip was made he said that the you know trip was made he said that the you know trip was made by the Persians in like 48 days which is by the Persians in like 48 days which is by the Persians in like 48 days which is crazy fast crazy fast crazy fast but in conquest and empire AB Bosworth but in conquest and empire AB Bosworth but in conquest and empire AB Bosworth said it took at least 3 months which is said it took at least 3 months which is said it took at least 3 months which is much more what you would expect from the much more what you would expect from the much more what you would expect from the Persians. Persians. Persians. The Persian army is notoriously slow to The Persian army is notoriously slow to The Persian army is notoriously slow to muster. It is notoriously slow moving, muster. It is notoriously slow moving, muster. It is notoriously slow moving, but it is like a giant ship or but it is like a giant ship or but it is like a giant ship or something, right? It takes forever to something, right? It takes forever to something, right? It takes forever to get to where you want it to go, but when get to where you want it to go, but when get to where you want it to go, but when it arrives there, it arrives with a ton it arrives there, it arrives with a ton it arrives there, it arrives with a ton of force and mass and weight behind it.

of force and mass and weight behind it. of force and mass and weight behind it. and the things the Persians don't get and the things the Persians don't get and the things the Persians don't get enough credit for uh by people who focus enough credit for uh by people who focus enough credit for uh by people who focus and you know I'm probably one of those and you know I'm probably one of those and you know I'm probably one of those people too inordinately on the people too inordinately on the people too inordinately on the battlefield day of the combat sort of uh battlefield day of the combat sort of uh battlefield day of the combat sort of uh version of what turns up that morning uh version of what turns up that morning uh version of what turns up that morning uh and doesn't focus enough on all it takes and doesn't focus enough on all it takes and doesn't focus enough on all it takes to get that army to the battlefield to get that army to the battlefield to get that army to the battlefield right up to that point think about the right up to that point think about the right up to that point think about the supply dumps that the Persians would supply dumps that the Persians would supply dumps that the Persians would have set up in advance at at at have set up in advance at at at have set up in advance at at at locations designed to meet the march locations designed to meet the march locations designed to meet the march totals for each day so that when the totals for each day so that when the totals for each day so that when the army arrives there's food and there's army arrives there's food and there's army arrives there's food and there's everything it needs to repair anything everything it needs to repair anything everything it needs to repair anything that got broken. I mean the Persians are that got broken. I mean the Persians are that got broken. I mean the Persians are fantastic at this stuff. And this is fantastic at this stuff. And this is fantastic at this stuff. And this is what allows you to get armies of what allows you to get armies of what allows you to get armies of incredible size because otherwise you incredible size because otherwise you incredible size because otherwise you know when you find um and this has been know when you find um and this has been know when you find um and this has been a an interesting sort of aspect of uh a an interesting sort of aspect of uh a an interesting sort of aspect of uh ancient warfare that's been looked at ancient warfare that's been looked at ancient warfare that's been looked at differently uh more recently than it did differently uh more recently than it did differently uh more recently than it did when I was a kid. When I was a kid, you when I was a kid. When I was a kid, you when I was a kid. When I was a kid, you used to talk about ancient bar so-called used to talk about ancient bar so-called used to talk about ancient bar so-called barbarian armies of 150,000, 200,000, barbarian armies of 150,000, 200,000, barbarian armies of 150,000, 200,000, these two tones and these Kimbry coming these two tones and these Kimbry coming these two tones and these Kimbry coming down from the mountains. But how would down from the mountains. But how would down from the mountains. But how would you feed them?

you feed them? you feed them? Right? Even if they stayed in a place Right? Even if they stayed in a place Right? Even if they stayed in a place for 5 minutes, they're going to be like for 5 minutes, they're going to be like for 5 minutes, they're going to be like locust. What allows you to feed large locust. What allows you to feed large locust. What allows you to feed large armies, as Hans Dbrook said so long ago, armies, as Hans Dbrook said so long ago, armies, as Hans Dbrook said so long ago, are the logistics of providing the food are the logistics of providing the food are the logistics of providing the food and what they need. And that's what the and what they need. And that's what the and what they need. And that's what the Persians, one of the things they were so Persians, one of the things they were so Persians, one of the things they were so good at. good at. good at. But even being that good, they can't But even being that good, they can't But even being that good, they can't leave a large army sitting in one place leave a large army sitting in one place leave a large army sitting in one place for too long. It has to continue moving, for too long. It has to continue moving, for too long. It has to continue moving, even if it moves slowly because it seems even if it moves slowly because it seems even if it moves slowly because it seems to bring everything with it. It reminds to bring everything with it. It reminds to bring everything with it. It reminds me a little of the way the Mongol cons me a little of the way the Mongol cons me a little of the way the Mongol cons although they came from a nomadic empire although they came from a nomadic empire although they came from a nomadic empire until it settled down obviously, but I until it settled down obviously, but I until it settled down obviously, but I mean it was they had a sort of an empire mean it was they had a sort of an empire mean it was they had a sort of an empire on the move, but the Persian king brings on the move, but the Persian king brings on the move, but the Persian king brings like a treasury with him and his like a treasury with him and his like a treasury with him and his relatives and there's concubines and relatives and there's concubines and relatives and there's concubines and everything you need. the soldiers all everything you need. the soldiers all everything you need. the soldiers all have assistance and I mean that swells have assistance and I mean that swells have assistance and I mean that swells the size. I mean those are all mouths to the size. I mean those are all mouths to the size. I mean those are all mouths to feed as the old saying goes. But in the feed as the old saying goes. But in the feed as the old saying goes. But in the ancient world I mean in the modern world ancient world I mean in the modern world ancient world I mean in the modern world too but in the ancient world and in the too but in the ancient world and in the too but in the ancient world and in the east especially this is a display this east especially this is a display this east especially this is a display this the army on the march serves a lot of the army on the march serves a lot of the army on the march serves a lot of purposes doesn't it? And one is to sort purposes doesn't it? And one is to sort purposes doesn't it? And one is to sort of uh reinforce royal authority. And of uh reinforce royal authority. And of uh reinforce royal authority. And Alexander and the Macedonians would use Alexander and the Macedonians would use Alexander and the Macedonians would use their army for the same thing. But in their army for the same thing. But in their army for the same thing. But in the Persian sense, it's exalted. And the the Persian sense, it's exalted. And the the Persian sense, it's exalted. And the Greek authors love to make the Greek authors love to make the Greek authors love to make the comparison, by the way, because it plays comparison, by the way, because it plays comparison, by the way, because it plays into their wonderful, we would today into their wonderful, we would today into their wonderful, we would today call it a racist sort of approach to call it a racist sort of approach to call it a racist sort of approach to this whole thing where, you know, the this whole thing where, you know, the this whole thing where, you know, the Greeks are one level of humanity and Greeks are one level of humanity and Greeks are one level of humanity and these barbarians are beneath us. And one these barbarians are beneath us. And one these barbarians are beneath us. And one of the ways, you know, that they show of the ways, you know, that they show of the ways, you know, that they show this is their their wealth is turned

this is their their wealth is turned this is their their wealth is turned into ostentatious displays and lots of into ostentatious displays and lots of into ostentatious displays and lots of references to to women, whether it's references to to women, whether it's references to to women, whether it's makeup or clothing or whatever. Whereas makeup or clothing or whatever. Whereas makeup or clothing or whatever. Whereas the Greeks and you know, it's really the the Greeks and you know, it's really the the Greeks and you know, it's really the Macedonians, but these Greek authors Macedonians, but these Greek authors Macedonians, but these Greek authors like to make it a west versus east like to make it a west versus east like to make it a west versus east thing. They're just into their weapons thing. They're just into their weapons thing. They're just into their weapons and their poverty and the and it's it's and their poverty and the and it's it's and their poverty and the and it's it's part of the trope, right? part of the trope, right? part of the trope, right? I mean, if we were ourselves being the I mean, if we were ourselves being the I mean, if we were ourselves being the Persians today, we would say, "What are Persians today, we would say, "What are Persians today, we would say, "What are you talking about? This is our wonderful you talking about? This is our wonderful you talking about? This is our wonderful kit. We're showing off." I mean, this is kit. We're showing off." I mean, this is kit. We're showing off." I mean, this is a sign of our dominance, the fact that a sign of our dominance, the fact that a sign of our dominance, the fact that we're covered in jewels, right? I like we're covered in jewels, right? I like we're covered in jewels, right? I like the way uh and remember, this is all the way uh and remember, this is all the way uh and remember, this is all filtered through a bunch of people that filtered through a bunch of people that filtered through a bunch of people that are trying to, you know, throw crap on are trying to, you know, throw crap on are trying to, you know, throw crap on these easterners for their uh womanly these easterners for their uh womanly these easterners for their uh womanly ostentatious ways. But there's a ostentatious ways. But there's a ostentatious ways. But there's a different way to view it. And that's I different way to view it. And that's I different way to view it. And that's I mean this is as Alexander will say later mean this is as Alexander will say later mean this is as Alexander will say later this is royalty and Quintis Curteas who this is royalty and Quintis Curteas who this is royalty and Quintis Curteas who probably has no idea what one of these probably has no idea what one of these probably has no idea what one of these really looked like but he gives you the really looked like but he gives you the really looked like but he gives you the standard rundown and some of this is standard rundown and some of this is standard rundown and some of this is going to probably be close to true. going to probably be close to true. going to probably be close to true. Remember, as we said, if you haven't had Remember, as we said, if you haven't had Remember, as we said, if you haven't had a royal army show up in 150 years, when a royal army show up in 150 years, when a royal army show up in 150 years, when one does show up, well, you hope it one does show up, well, you hope it one does show up, well, you hope it impresses, right? And Quintis Curtis has impresses, right? And Quintis Curtis has impresses, right? And Quintis Curtis has an army uh description of the Persian an army uh description of the Persian an army uh description of the Persian king on the march that is by any king on the march that is by any king on the march that is by any standard you want to use, impressive.

standard you want to use, impressive. standard you want to use, impressive. And in my John Yardley translation, And in my John Yardley translation, And in my John Yardley translation, Quintis Curteus Rufus writes, quote, Quintis Curteus Rufus writes, quote, Quintis Curteus Rufus writes, quote, "It is a tradition among the Persians "It is a tradition among the Persians "It is a tradition among the Persians not to begin a march until after not to begin a march until after not to begin a march until after sunrise, and the day was already well sunrise, and the day was already well sunrise, and the day was already well advanced when the signal was given by advanced when the signal was given by advanced when the signal was given by trumpet from the king's tent. Above the trumpet from the king's tent. Above the trumpet from the king's tent. Above the tent, so that it would be visible to tent, so that it would be visible to tent, so that it would be visible to all, a representation of the sun gleamed all, a representation of the sun gleamed all, a representation of the sun gleamed in a crystal case. The order of the line in a crystal case. The order of the line in a crystal case. The order of the line of march was as follows. In front on of march was as follows. In front on of march was as follows. In front on silver altars was carried the fire which silver altars was carried the fire which silver altars was carried the fire which the Persians called sacred and eternal. the Persians called sacred and eternal. the Persians called sacred and eternal. End quote. Let me stop you here. This is End quote. Let me stop you here. This is End quote. Let me stop you here. This is part of the Persian religion, right? part of the Persian religion, right? part of the Persian religion, right? Ahura Mazda Zerostranism. This flame's Ahura Mazda Zerostranism. This flame's Ahura Mazda Zerostranism. This flame's never supposed to be extinguished. And never supposed to be extinguished. And never supposed to be extinguished. And you know like the Olympic torch or the you know like the Olympic torch or the you know like the Olympic torch or the John F. Kennedy eternal flame. I mean John F. Kennedy eternal flame. I mean John F. Kennedy eternal flame. I mean you just you carry it with you. It's a you just you carry it with you. It's a you just you carry it with you. It's a sign. And all the people on the march sign. And all the people on the march sign. And all the people on the march are going to see it too. And they're are going to see it too. And they're are going to see it too. And they're going to tell their grandchildren about going to tell their grandchildren about going to tell their grandchildren about it. it. it. Quintis Curius continues talking about Quintis Curius continues talking about Quintis Curius continues talking about the people whose job it is to sort of the people whose job it is to sort of the people whose job it is to sort of oversee the flame, the religious people, oversee the flame, the religious people, oversee the flame, the religious people, the magi.

the magi. the magi. Quote, "Next came the magi singing the Quote, "Next came the magi singing the Quote, "Next came the magi singing the traditional hymn, and they were followed traditional hymn, and they were followed traditional hymn, and they were followed by 365 by 365 by 365 young men in scarlet cloaks, their young men in scarlet cloaks, their young men in scarlet cloaks, their number equaling the days of the year." number equaling the days of the year." number equaling the days of the year." Then came the chariot consecrated to Then came the chariot consecrated to Then came the chariot consecrated to Jupiter drawn by white horses followed Jupiter drawn by white horses followed Jupiter drawn by white horses followed by a horse of extraordinary size which by a horse of extraordinary size which by a horse of extraordinary size which the Persians called the son's horse. End the Persians called the son's horse. End the Persians called the son's horse. End quote. Now typical of ancient writing quote. Now typical of ancient writing quote. Now typical of ancient writing they assume that their gods are the same they assume that their gods are the same they assume that their gods are the same gods everybody else is worshiping just gods everybody else is worshiping just gods everybody else is worshiping just under different names. So, Quintis under different names. So, Quintis under different names. So, Quintis Curius is Jupiter, is Alexander's Zeus, Curius is Jupiter, is Alexander's Zeus, Curius is Jupiter, is Alexander's Zeus, is Egypt's Ammon, and is Ahuram Mazda is Egypt's Ammon, and is Ahuram Mazda is Egypt's Ammon, and is Ahuram Mazda from the Persians. As far as these from the Persians. As far as these from the Persians. As far as these people are concerned, they obviously did people are concerned, they obviously did people are concerned, they obviously did not worship Jupiter, per se. not worship Jupiter, per se. not worship Jupiter, per se. Curteous continues, quote, "Those Curteous continues, quote, "Those Curteous continues, quote, "Those driving the horses were equipped with driving the horses were equipped with driving the horses were equipped with golden whips and white robes. Not far golden whips and white robes. Not far golden whips and white robes. Not far behind were 10 carts amply decorated behind were 10 carts amply decorated behind were 10 carts amply decorated with relief carvings in gold and silver.

with relief carvings in gold and silver. with relief carvings in gold and silver. And these were followed by the cavalry And these were followed by the cavalry And these were followed by the cavalry of 12 nations of different cultures of 12 nations of different cultures of 12 nations of different cultures variously armed. Next in line were the variously armed. Next in line were the variously armed. Next in line were the soldiers whom the Persians called the soldiers whom the Persians called the soldiers whom the Persians called the immortals, some 10,000 in number. No immortals, some 10,000 in number. No immortals, some 10,000 in number. No other groups were as splendidly bedcked other groups were as splendidly bedcked other groups were as splendidly bedcked in barbarian opulence. golden necklaces, in barbarian opulence. golden necklaces, in barbarian opulence. golden necklaces, clothes interwoven with gold, clothes interwoven with gold, clothes interwoven with gold, long-sleeved tunics actually studded long-sleeved tunics actually studded long-sleeved tunics actually studded with jewels. After a short interval, he with jewels. After a short interval, he with jewels. After a short interval, he writes, came the 15,000 men they call writes, came the 15,000 men they call writes, came the 15,000 men they call the king's kinsmen. This troop was the king's kinsmen. This troop was the king's kinsmen. This troop was dressed almost like women, its dressed almost like women, its dressed almost like women, its extravagance rather than its fine arms extravagance rather than its fine arms extravagance rather than its fine arms catching the eye." End quote. So, here catching the eye." End quote. So, here catching the eye." End quote. So, here you go. Right. we're going to slam them you go. Right. we're going to slam them you go. Right. we're going to slam them now for their feminine-like qualities. now for their feminine-like qualities. now for their feminine-like qualities. Uh in the because the Persians would Uh in the because the Persians would Uh in the because the Persians would wear robes. They would, you know, there wear robes. They would, you know, there wear robes. They would, you know, there would be the eye makeup that the would be the eye makeup that the would be the eye makeup that the Egyptians used to wear too, the coal Egyptians used to wear too, the coal Egyptians used to wear too, the coal around the eyes. All this sort of stuff around the eyes. All this sort of stuff around the eyes. All this sort of stuff struck the, you know, the western Greek struck the, you know, the western Greek struck the, you know, the western Greek world as affeminate. They'll find that world as affeminate. They'll find that world as affeminate. They'll find that they like it later, but at the moment they like it later, but at the moment they like it later, but at the moment it's bizarre and strange and it allows it's bizarre and strange and it allows it's bizarre and strange and it allows them to uh sort of explain, you know, to them to uh sort of explain, you know, to them to uh sort of explain, you know, to their audience why their weak culture their audience why their weak culture their audience why their weak culture fell under the masculine verility of the fell under the masculine verility of the fell under the masculine verility of the west.

west. west. And he continues by pointing out, you And he continues by pointing out, you And he continues by pointing out, you know, that this is a partial fashion know, that this is a partial fashion know, that this is a partial fashion show and says, quote, "The column next show and says, quote, "The column next show and says, quote, "The column next to these comprise the so-called I don't to these comprise the so-called I don't to these comprise the so-called I don't know how to pronounce this word. It know how to pronounce this word. It know how to pronounce this word. It looks like Dorifoey or Dorifery. The men looks like Dorifoey or Dorifery. The men looks like Dorifoey or Dorifery. The men who usually looked after the king's who usually looked after the king's who usually looked after the king's wardrobe. And these preceded the royal wardrobe. And these preceded the royal wardrobe. And these preceded the royal chariot on which rode the king himself chariot on which rode the king himself chariot on which rode the king himself towering above all others. Both sides of towering above all others. Both sides of towering above all others. Both sides of the chariot, he writes, were embossed the chariot, he writes, were embossed the chariot, he writes, were embossed with gold and silver representations of with gold and silver representations of with gold and silver representations of the gods. The yolk was studded with the gods. The yolk was studded with the gods. The yolk was studded with flashing gems, and from it arose two flashing gems, and from it arose two flashing gems, and from it arose two golden images, each a cubit high, of golden images, each a cubit high, of golden images, each a cubit high, of Ninus and Balis, respectively. between Ninus and Balis, respectively. between Ninus and Balis, respectively. between these was a consecrated eagle made of these was a consecrated eagle made of these was a consecrated eagle made of gold and represented with wings gold and represented with wings gold and represented with wings outstretched. End quote. outstretched. End quote. outstretched. End quote. Then he talks about the king and this is Then he talks about the king and this is Then he talks about the king and this is the the weird sort of dichotomy of these the the weird sort of dichotomy of these the the weird sort of dichotomy of these ancient western writers and the ancient western writers and the ancient western writers and the dichotomy is that they want these people dichotomy is that they want these people dichotomy is that they want these people to be cowardly but at the same time to be cowardly but at the same time to be cowardly but at the same time magnificent and deadly. What did we say magnificent and deadly. What did we say magnificent and deadly. What did we say in the last installment? Right, the in the last installment? Right, the in the last installment? Right, the Persians are all like stormtroopers or Persians are all like stormtroopers or Persians are all like stormtroopers or guys in red shirts in Star Trek. um guys in red shirts in Star Trek. um guys in red shirts in Star Trek. um they're they're nameless and faceless they're they're nameless and faceless they're they're nameless and faceless and they don't matter except as you know and they don't matter except as you know and they don't matter except as you know it matters to the Greek side of the it matters to the Greek side of the it matters to the Greek side of the story except for one character on the story except for one character on the story except for one character on the other side the real bad guy the Ming the other side the real bad guy the Ming the other side the real bad guy the Ming the merciless the Darth Vader in this case merciless the Darth Vader in this case merciless the Darth Vader in this case it's Das and Quintis Curtis writes quote it's Das and Quintis Curtis writes quote it's Das and Quintis Curtis writes quote the sumptuous attire of the king was the sumptuous attire of the king was the sumptuous attire of the king was especially remarkable his tunic was

especially remarkable his tunic was especially remarkable his tunic was purple interwoven with white at the purple interwoven with white at the purple interwoven with white at the center and his gold embroidered cloak center and his gold embroidered cloak center and his gold embroidered cloak bore a gilded motif of hawks attacking bore a gilded motif of hawks attacking bore a gilded motif of hawks attacking each other with their beaks. From his each other with their beaks. From his each other with their beaks. From his gilded belt, which he wore in the style gilded belt, which he wore in the style gilded belt, which he wore in the style of a woman, he had slung his scimitar, of a woman, he had slung his scimitar, of a woman, he had slung his scimitar, its scabbard made of a precious stone. its scabbard made of a precious stone. its scabbard made of a precious stone. His royal headdress, called a khadaris His royal headdress, called a khadaris His royal headdress, called a khadaris by the Persians, was encircled by a blue by the Persians, was encircled by a blue by the Persians, was encircled by a blue ribbon flecked with white. 10,000 ribbon flecked with white. 10,000 ribbon flecked with white. 10,000 spearmen carrying lances chased with spearmen carrying lances chased with spearmen carrying lances chased with silver and tipped with gold followed the silver and tipped with gold followed the silver and tipped with gold followed the king's chariot. and to the right and king's chariot. and to the right and king's chariot. and to the right and left he was attended by some 200 of his left he was attended by some 200 of his left he was attended by some 200 of his most noble relatives. At the end of this most noble relatives. At the end of this most noble relatives. At the end of this column came 30,000 foot soldiers column came 30,000 foot soldiers column came 30,000 foot soldiers followed by 400 of the king's horses. followed by 400 of the king's horses. followed by 400 of the king's horses. End quote. End quote. End quote. Now that's not the whole army. That's Now that's not the whole army. That's Now that's not the whole army. That's just sort of his entourage. just sort of his entourage. just sort of his entourage. Now, while Curteus can give us sort of a Now, while Curteus can give us sort of a Now, while Curteus can give us sort of a sense of sort of the grandeur and the sense of sort of the grandeur and the sense of sort of the grandeur and the opulence and the awe inspiring nature of opulence and the awe inspiring nature of opulence and the awe inspiring nature of something like this, I'm not sure we can something like this, I'm not sure we can something like this, I'm not sure we can trust him on the details. You don't get trust him on the details. You don't get trust him on the details. You don't get a sense of the numbers uh that you can a sense of the numbers uh that you can a sense of the numbers uh that you can trust from any of these ancient authors.

trust from any of these ancient authors. trust from any of these ancient authors. I mean, Aryan and Plutarch say that the I mean, Aryan and Plutarch say that the I mean, Aryan and Plutarch say that the army that the great king is leading here army that the great king is leading here army that the great king is leading here is like 600,000 men. is like 600,000 men. is like 600,000 men. Diodoris has it at more like 400,000. Diodoris has it at more like 400,000. Diodoris has it at more like 400,000. Uh Curteus says it's like 250,000 Uh Curteus says it's like 250,000 Uh Curteus says it's like 250,000 infantry and 62,200 infantry and 62,200 infantry and 62,200 cavalry, which is rather specific. cavalry, which is rather specific. cavalry, which is rather specific. But none of those numbers can be right. But none of those numbers can be right. But none of those numbers can be right. I mean, there's a reason that we don't, I mean, there's a reason that we don't, I mean, there's a reason that we don't, as I believe we said, there's a reason as I believe we said, there's a reason as I believe we said, there's a reason we don't have armies of 600,000 men we don't have armies of 600,000 men we don't have armies of 600,000 men marching around. Even if your army has marching around. Even if your army has marching around. Even if your army has that many men, right? You break them up. that many men, right? You break them up. that many men, right? You break them up. What did Napoleon teach us? Or for that What did Napoleon teach us? Or for that What did Napoleon teach us? Or for that matter, the Mongols, right? you break matter, the Mongols, right? you break matter, the Mongols, right? you break them up in into smaller little armies them up in into smaller little armies them up in into smaller little armies and and have all of those things sort of and and have all of those things sort of and and have all of those things sort of take parallel paths and then converge on take parallel paths and then converge on take parallel paths and then converge on the target. I mean, that's what modern the target. I mean, that's what modern the target. I mean, that's what modern warfare kind of well, modern warfare warfare kind of well, modern warfare warfare kind of well, modern warfare since Napoleons or the Mongols time since Napoleons or the Mongols time since Napoleons or the Mongols time teaches. But back in these days, it was teaches. But back in these days, it was teaches. But back in these days, it was one big clump, right? And well, 600,000 one big clump, right? And well, 600,000 one big clump, right? And well, 600,000 men, how do you feed a clump like that, men, how do you feed a clump like that, men, how do you feed a clump like that, no matter how many supply dumps you no matter how many supply dumps you no matter how many supply dumps you station along the way? And it's station along the way? And it's station along the way? And it's fascinating. I mentioned Angles's work fascinating. I mentioned Angles's work fascinating. I mentioned Angles's work um earlier I believe Alexander the Great um earlier I believe Alexander the Great um earlier I believe Alexander the Great and the logistics of the Macedonian army and the logistics of the Macedonian army and the logistics of the Macedonian army and he describes I mean it's a whole and he describes I mean it's a whole and he describes I mean it's a whole science we don't think about as much science we don't think about as much science we don't think about as much anymore the science of how you choose anymore the science of how you choose anymore the science of how you choose paths for your army to take and the paths for your army to take and the paths for your army to take and the paths have to have enough stuff along paths have to have enough stuff along paths have to have enough stuff along the way to feed them right grain growing the way to feed them right grain growing the way to feed them right grain growing water uh angles was saying it was water uh angles was saying it was water uh angles was saying it was 100,000 gallons a day he estimated the 100,000 gallons a day he estimated the 100,000 gallons a day he estimated the Macedonian army needed he was talking

Macedonian army needed he was talking Macedonian army needed he was talking about their trip from where the Gordian about their trip from where the Gordian about their trip from where the Gordian knot was cut to where this battle is knot was cut to where this battle is knot was cut to where this battle is going to happen. And he said that I going to happen. And he said that I going to happen. And he said that I think it took like a month. And he said think it took like a month. And he said think it took like a month. And he said it's it it it ate up 8 million pounds of it's it it it ate up 8 million pounds of it's it it it ate up 8 million pounds of grain. That's 4,000 tons, he said. And grain. That's 4,000 tons, he said. And grain. That's 4,000 tons, he said. And if that's what an army of something like if that's what an army of something like if that's what an army of something like 40,000 or so, 45,000 maybe guys needs, 40,000 or so, 45,000 maybe guys needs, 40,000 or so, 45,000 maybe guys needs, what's the Persian army need? Especially what's the Persian army need? Especially what's the Persian army need? Especially if it's really 600,000 men, which it if it's really 600,000 men, which it if it's really 600,000 men, which it isn't. isn't. isn't. But it's a lot. Whatever it is, by the But it's a lot. Whatever it is, by the But it's a lot. Whatever it is, by the standards of the day, it's a lot. If it standards of the day, it's a lot. If it standards of the day, it's a lot. If it is a much more credible 100 or 120,000 is a much more credible 100 or 120,000 is a much more credible 100 or 120,000 uh men in in the great king's army, uh men in in the great king's army, uh men in in the great king's army, that's a ton. that's a ton. that's a ton. I like the way historian I like the way historian I like the way historian George Cochwell in his famous work, The George Cochwell in his famous work, The George Cochwell in his famous work, The Greek Wars, the failure of Persia, Greek Wars, the failure of Persia, Greek Wars, the failure of Persia, written in the 1980s, late 1980s, uh he written in the 1980s, late 1980s, uh he written in the 1980s, late 1980s, uh he pointed out though that you don't need pointed out though that you don't need pointed out though that you don't need to have tons and tons of people to be to have tons and tons of people to be to have tons and tons of people to be able to have extremely effective and able to have extremely effective and able to have extremely effective and let's be honest, deadly militaries. And let's be honest, deadly militaries. And let's be honest, deadly militaries. And he writes, quote, in general, the great he writes, quote, in general, the great he writes, quote, in general, the great invading armies of antiquity were not, invading armies of antiquity were not, invading armies of antiquity were not, it would seem to modernize, large.

it would seem to modernize, large. it would seem to modernize, large. Hannibal set out from Spain, according Hannibal set out from Spain, according Hannibal set out from Spain, according to Palibius, with 50,000 foot and about to Palibius, with 50,000 foot and about to Palibius, with 50,000 foot and about 9,000 horse. By the time he reached 9,000 horse. By the time he reached 9,000 horse. By the time he reached Italy, they were down to 20,000 foot and Italy, they were down to 20,000 foot and Italy, they were down to 20,000 foot and 6,000 horse. And yet with these, for 16 6,000 horse. And yet with these, for 16 6,000 horse. And yet with these, for 16 years, he remained undefeated. For the years, he remained undefeated. For the years, he remained undefeated. For the great attack on Antiochus III in 189, great attack on Antiochus III in 189, great attack on Antiochus III in 189, the Romans had an army of about 30,000 the Romans had an army of about 30,000 the Romans had an army of about 30,000 and were confronted by 70,000 of all and were confronted by 70,000 of all and were confronted by 70,000 of all sorts of troops from all parts of the sorts of troops from all parts of the sorts of troops from all parts of the Saluced realm, including the most Saluced realm, including the most Saluced realm, including the most eastern peoples. Alexander Cockwell eastern peoples. Alexander Cockwell eastern peoples. Alexander Cockwell writes began his invasion of Asia with writes began his invasion of Asia with writes began his invasion of Asia with something like 43,000 ft and 6,100 horse something like 43,000 ft and 6,100 horse something like 43,000 ft and 6,100 horse and confronted the might of Asia at and confronted the might of Asia at and confronted the might of Asia at Galgamela with about 40,000 ft and 7,000 Galgamela with about 40,000 ft and 7,000 Galgamela with about 40,000 ft and 7,000 horse. End quote. And we should recall horse. End quote. And we should recall horse. End quote. And we should recall that like a lot of armies, especially that like a lot of armies, especially that like a lot of armies, especially the Persians who travel the opposite of the Persians who travel the opposite of the Persians who travel the opposite of light, uh there's a lot of hangers on light, uh there's a lot of hangers on light, uh there's a lot of hangers on and um people who take care of things and um people who take care of things and um people who take care of things and servants and I mean it's a virtual and servants and I mean it's a virtual and servants and I mean it's a virtual town. I loved the way Engles described town. I loved the way Engles described town. I loved the way Engles described it. He said basically and he was talking it. He said basically and he was talking it. He said basically and he was talking again about Alexander's army, not the again about Alexander's army, not the again about Alexander's army, not the much larger one the Persians are much larger one the Persians are much larger one the Persians are leading. He said that if you take this leading. He said that if you take this leading. He said that if you take this army and just look at it in in terms of army and just look at it in in terms of army and just look at it in in terms of its numbers, it is one of the largest its numbers, it is one of the largest its numbers, it is one of the largest cities in the world and it's moving cities in the world and it's moving cities in the world and it's moving around and needs to be fed and it's around and needs to be fed and it's around and needs to be fed and it's larger than almost any of the cities larger than almost any of the cities larger than almost any of the cities it's going to sort of hang out by.

it's going to sort of hang out by. it's going to sort of hang out by. So if Alexander's army is 45,000 men, So if Alexander's army is 45,000 men, So if Alexander's army is 45,000 men, that is a large ancient city, isn't it? that is a large ancient city, isn't it? that is a large ancient city, isn't it? If the great king's army is 120,000 men, If the great king's army is 120,000 men, If the great king's army is 120,000 men, that is a massive city in the ancient that is a massive city in the ancient that is a massive city in the ancient world. It's interesting to think about world. It's interesting to think about world. It's interesting to think about it that way, isn't it? But the need to it that way, isn't it? But the need to it that way, isn't it? But the need to feed these people is a huge part of the feed these people is a huge part of the feed these people is a huge part of the deal. One of the ancient authors, I deal. One of the ancient authors, I deal. One of the ancient authors, I don't remember who it was, but it gets don't remember who it was, but it gets don't remember who it was, but it gets quoted by the modern authors quite a quoted by the modern authors quite a quoted by the modern authors quite a bit, had said that this army, I think bit, had said that this army, I think bit, had said that this army, I think they were talking about Alexander, but they were talking about Alexander, but they were talking about Alexander, but again, equally applies to both, that it again, equally applies to both, that it again, equally applies to both, that it could not retreat if it had to retreat could not retreat if it had to retreat could not retreat if it had to retreat through the territories that it had through the territories that it had through the territories that it had already passed through because they were already passed through because they were already passed through because they were denuted of any food. Right? So, so if denuted of any food. Right? So, so if denuted of any food. Right? So, so if you have to go back home or or retreat you have to go back home or or retreat you have to go back home or or retreat from this battle, you have to pick a from this battle, you have to pick a from this battle, you have to pick a different path, one that hasn't been different path, one that hasn't been different path, one that hasn't been scoured by locusts yet. Fascinating. scoured by locusts yet. Fascinating. scoured by locusts yet. Fascinating. And heck, I love the way Donald W. And heck, I love the way Donald W. And heck, I love the way Donald W. Engles in his book actually points out Engles in his book actually points out Engles in his book actually points out how less efficient the farming yields how less efficient the farming yields how less efficient the farming yields and methods were back then. So that when and methods were back then. So that when and methods were back then. So that when he says the Macedonians required 4,000 he says the Macedonians required 4,000 he says the Macedonians required 4,000 tons of food to get from Gordium to the tons of food to get from Gordium to the tons of food to get from Gordium to the battle site here, it's even harder for battle site here, it's even harder for battle site here, it's even harder for the ancients to come up with that 4,000 the ancients to come up with that 4,000 the ancients to come up with that 4,000 tons of grain than it would be for the tons of grain than it would be for the tons of grain than it would be for the people in that region today using, you people in that region today using, you people in that region today using, you know, modern farming methods and know, modern farming methods and know, modern farming methods and whatnot. So the question of food is whatnot. So the question of food is whatnot. So the question of food is paramount. I mean, Hitler talks about it paramount. I mean, Hitler talks about it paramount. I mean, Hitler talks about it in mine comp because he's still a man of in mine comp because he's still a man of in mine comp because he's still a man of of the previous eras when instead of of the previous eras when instead of of the previous eras when instead of looking at something like oil, he's looking at something like oil, he's looking at something like oil, he's looking at what people have worried looking at what people have worried looking at what people have worried about forever, food. and one of the about forever, food. and one of the about forever, food. and one of the national security advantages that some national security advantages that some national security advantages that some states have over others as we said and

states have over others as we said and states have over others as we said and it's a Hansdale Brook going back to it's a Hansdale Brook going back to it's a Hansdale Brook going back to Hansdale Brookline but I mean the Hansdale Brookline but I mean the Hansdale Brookline but I mean the ability for a civilization to create the ability for a civilization to create the ability for a civilization to create the ability to feed larger forces and put ability to feed larger forces and put ability to feed larger forces and put them in the field and especially when them in the field and especially when them in the field and especially when people like the Assyrians can then people like the Assyrians can then people like the Assyrians can then project power over distances because you project power over distances because you project power over distances because you can feed these armies over distances can feed these armies over distances can feed these armies over distances that's a huge advantage over people that that's a huge advantage over people that that's a huge advantage over people that can't do that can't do that can't do that there's a direct connection isn't there there's a direct connection isn't there there's a direct connection isn't there between power projection and logistics between power projection and logistics between power projection and logistics I find it interesting that as large as I find it interesting that as large as I find it interesting that as large as this Persian army is and as long as it's this Persian army is and as long as it's this Persian army is and as long as it's taken to put it together, it still taken to put it together, it still taken to put it together, it still doesn't have all the units from its doesn't have all the units from its doesn't have all the units from its version of the Far East and far version of the Far East and far version of the Far East and far northeast frontier. Some of their best northeast frontier. Some of their best northeast frontier. Some of their best units aren't going to be at this battle units aren't going to be at this battle units aren't going to be at this battle cuz they didn't make it in time or they cuz they didn't make it in time or they cuz they didn't make it in time or they weren't even called by the king because weren't even called by the king because weren't even called by the king because the king knew they wouldn't make it in the king knew they wouldn't make it in the king knew they wouldn't make it in time. Alexander will run into those in time. Alexander will run into those in time. Alexander will run into those in another battle, but it means as large as another battle, but it means as large as another battle, but it means as large as the Persian army is, it could have been the Persian army is, it could have been the Persian army is, it could have been larger. larger. larger. But no matter what the size the actual But no matter what the size the actual But no matter what the size the actual army of the great king was, whether you army of the great king was, whether you army of the great king was, whether you want to take some of the higher numbers want to take some of the higher numbers want to take some of the higher numbers or go all the way down into the or go all the way down into the or go all the way down into the Delbrookian minimizations and start Delbrookian minimizations and start Delbrookian minimizations and start talking about 50,000 men or whatever, talking about 50,000 men or whatever, talking about 50,000 men or whatever, from the relative standpoint, from the relative standpoint, from the relative standpoint, this is going to be one of the greatest this is going to be one of the greatest this is going to be one of the greatest largest battles up to this time. I was largest battles up to this time. I was largest battles up to this time. I was hoping I could say that it was, you hoping I could say that it was, you hoping I could say that it was, you know, top two or top three, but there know, top two or top three, but there know, top two or top three, but there are some Chinese battles that were very are some Chinese battles that were very are some Chinese battles that were very large right around the same time.

large right around the same time. large right around the same time. And of course, since we don't know how And of course, since we don't know how And of course, since we don't know how many people fought in any of these many people fought in any of these many people fought in any of these battles before this time, including this battles before this time, including this battles before this time, including this one. I mean, how do you compare a bunch one. I mean, how do you compare a bunch one. I mean, how do you compare a bunch of numbers you don't have to begin with, of numbers you don't have to begin with, of numbers you don't have to begin with, but it would have been an awe inspiring but it would have been an awe inspiring but it would have been an awe inspiring event. event. event. And one of the things I try to get my And one of the things I try to get my And one of the things I try to get my mind around as somebody, and I know many mind around as somebody, and I know many mind around as somebody, and I know many of you are the same way, who finds of you are the same way, who finds of you are the same way, who finds military history fascinating, is there's military history fascinating, is there's military history fascinating, is there's a huge difference between a huge difference between a huge difference between seeing what war is like in a relatively seeing what war is like in a relatively seeing what war is like in a relatively modern era versus someone who could have modern era versus someone who could have modern era versus someone who could have gone to the battle that's shaping up gone to the battle that's shaping up gone to the battle that's shaping up here as a pure spectator. here as a pure spectator. here as a pure spectator. I mean, if you look at people like I mean, if you look at people like I mean, if you look at people like Winston Churchill or Adolf Hitler who Winston Churchill or Adolf Hitler who Winston Churchill or Adolf Hitler who both were in the first world war, I both were in the first world war, I both were in the first world war, I mean, when Churchill had his failure at mean, when Churchill had his failure at mean, when Churchill had his failure at Gipoly, he goes and commands some troops Gipoly, he goes and commands some troops Gipoly, he goes and commands some troops in in the war and and Hitler of course in in the war and and Hitler of course in in the war and and Hitler of course was a runner. Both those guys saw what was a runner. Both those guys saw what was a runner. Both those guys saw what some of the first world war was like, some of the first world war was like, some of the first world war was like, right? From their vantage point, from right? From their vantage point, from right? From their vantage point, from their part of the front there. I mean, their part of the front there. I mean, their part of the front there. I mean, but they didn't see the entire First but they didn't see the entire First but they didn't see the entire First World War. Heck, they didn't see the World War. Heck, they didn't see the World War. Heck, they didn't see the entire battles they were associated in.

entire battles they were associated in. entire battles they were associated in. Those were such a large battle you Those were such a large battle you Those were such a large battle you couldn't see to the end of the couldn't see to the end of the couldn't see to the end of the battlefields, right? They're miles. But battlefields, right? They're miles. But battlefields, right? They're miles. But you could watch the battle of Isis you could watch the battle of Isis you could watch the battle of Isis that's about to take place here, you that's about to take place here, you that's about to take place here, you know, from a hill and, you know, watch know, from a hill and, you know, watch know, from a hill and, you know, watch the whole thing start to finish. Might the whole thing start to finish. Might the whole thing start to finish. Might take a day, might take the amount of take a day, might take the amount of take a day, might take the amount of time it takes to watch a movie in a time it takes to watch a movie in a time it takes to watch a movie in a movie theater. That blows my mind. movie theater. That blows my mind. movie theater. That blows my mind. And anybody else who even saw one of And anybody else who even saw one of And anybody else who even saw one of these armies pass by saw the greatest these armies pass by saw the greatest these armies pass by saw the greatest thing they were ever going to see. Like thing they were ever going to see. Like thing they were ever going to see. Like I said about the, you know, earlier the I said about the, you know, earlier the I said about the, you know, earlier the showing off of the army to sort of showing off of the army to sort of showing off of the army to sort of cement one's rule. Uh you'll tell your cement one's rule. Uh you'll tell your cement one's rule. Uh you'll tell your grandchildren about this. You'll write grandchildren about this. You'll write grandchildren about this. You'll write books about it. I mean these guys that books about it. I mean these guys that books about it. I mean these guys that we're using as our primary sources in we're using as our primary sources in we're using as our primary sources in air quotes here because they're, you air quotes here because they're, you air quotes here because they're, you know, 400 years after the event are 400 know, 400 years after the event are 400 know, 400 years after the event are 400 years after the event and they're still years after the event and they're still years after the event and they're still talking about it. So, uh, made an talking about it. So, uh, made an talking about it. So, uh, made an impression, right? impression, right? impression, right? If you're looking at how these armies If you're looking at how these armies If you're looking at how these armies maneuver though, it's it's fascinating. maneuver though, it's it's fascinating. maneuver though, it's it's fascinating. And, uh, it's through an interesting And, uh, it's through an interesting And, uh, it's through an interesting area. Basically, the best way to think area. Basically, the best way to think area. Basically, the best way to think about it, you can actually go, they about it, you can actually go, they about it, you can actually go, they don't know exactly where the battle that don't know exactly where the battle that don't know exactly where the battle that we're about to talk about happened, but we're about to talk about happened, but we're about to talk about happened, but it's within a narrow little area, so you it's within a narrow little area, so you it's within a narrow little area, so you can kind of say, well, it either can kind of say, well, it either can kind of say, well, it either happened at this river or a little happened at this river or a little happened at this river or a little farther back at this river. Um, but it's farther back at this river. Um, but it's farther back at this river. Um, but it's a narrow coastal plane right between the a narrow coastal plane right between the a narrow coastal plane right between the sea and some mountains. And once you get sea and some mountains. And once you get sea and some mountains. And once you get past sort of that, it broadens out into past sort of that, it broadens out into past sort of that, it broadens out into a larger plane. The larger plane is a larger plane. The larger plane is a larger plane. The larger plane is Syria, right? The northern part of Syria Syria, right? The northern part of Syria Syria, right? The northern part of Syria where it abuts Turkey. And the area that where it abuts Turkey. And the area that where it abuts Turkey. And the area that Alexander's passing through is sort of

Alexander's passing through is sort of Alexander's passing through is sort of this area where the the southwest of this area where the the southwest of this area where the the southwest of Turkey and the northwest of Syria kind Turkey and the northwest of Syria kind Turkey and the northwest of Syria kind of come together. of come together. of come together. and the maneuvering because let's and the maneuvering because let's and the maneuvering because let's remember that's a enormous part of remember that's a enormous part of remember that's a enormous part of generalship always and especially maybe generalship always and especially maybe generalship always and especially maybe even more so in Alexander's time because even more so in Alexander's time because even more so in Alexander's time because once he puts himself in the front rank once he puts himself in the front rank once he puts himself in the front rank you know he's not going to be able to you know he's not going to be able to you know he's not going to be able to influence the battle as it goes like a influence the battle as it goes like a influence the battle as it goes like a Napoleon would be a much higher Napoleon would be a much higher Napoleon would be a much higher percentage of what he does and percentage of what he does and percentage of what he does and importance is handled in things like importance is handled in things like importance is handled in things like pre- battle maneuvering is he going to pre- battle maneuvering is he going to pre- battle maneuvering is he going to go out into the plane to fight the go out into the plane to fight the go out into the plane to fight the Persians out you know on a big old wide Persians out you know on a big old wide Persians out you know on a big old wide expanse or are you going to have them expanse or are you going to have them expanse or are you going to have them come to you and try to fight you in this come to you and try to fight you in this come to you and try to fight you in this area between the sea and the mountains. area between the sea and the mountains. area between the sea and the mountains. It's about 2 mi wide at its narrowest It's about 2 mi wide at its narrowest It's about 2 mi wide at its narrowest and then that becomes part of the and then that becomes part of the and then that becomes part of the maneuvering. But first, Alexander, he's maneuvering. But first, Alexander, he's maneuvering. But first, Alexander, he's got his army separated doing a bunch of got his army separated doing a bunch of got his army separated doing a bunch of things and eventually the Persians show things and eventually the Persians show things and eventually the Persians show up. And you know, I was reading some up. And you know, I was reading some up. And you know, I was reading some things and I hadn't read that before. things and I hadn't read that before. things and I hadn't read that before. It's interesting this Persian advance is It's interesting this Persian advance is It's interesting this Persian advance is so slow and so well known that people so slow and so well known that people so slow and so well known that people back in Greece are talking about it. I back in Greece are talking about it. I back in Greece are talking about it. I guess Deosanes was saying, you know, the guess Deosanes was saying, you know, the guess Deosanes was saying, you know, the Alexander's going to get trampled. The Alexander's going to get trampled. The Alexander's going to get trampled. The Persians are coming. So, I mean, if the Persians are coming. So, I mean, if the Persians are coming. So, I mean, if the Star Wars ominous Darth Vader music is Star Wars ominous Darth Vader music is Star Wars ominous Darth Vader music is playing and we can start to feel the playing and we can start to feel the playing and we can start to feel the tension and the, you know, suspense, tension and the, you know, suspense, tension and the, you know, suspense, it's going on for a long time, it's going on for a long time, it's going on for a long time, but somehow catches Alexander offguard.

but somehow catches Alexander offguard. but somehow catches Alexander offguard. Anyway, I like the way Adrien Anyway, I like the way Adrien Anyway, I like the way Adrien Goldsworthy and Philip and Alexander Goldsworthy and Philip and Alexander Goldsworthy and Philip and Alexander sets it up and he writes, quote, "A sets it up and he writes, quote, "A sets it up and he writes, quote, "A narrow strip of coastal plane led into narrow strip of coastal plane led into narrow strip of coastal plane led into Syria, fringed by mountain ranges that Syria, fringed by mountain ranges that Syria, fringed by mountain ranges that an army could only cross via one of an army could only cross via one of an army could only cross via one of three routes. Parminio had gone ahead to three routes. Parminio had gone ahead to three routes. Parminio had gone ahead to secure the entrances to these, taking secure the entrances to these, taking secure the entrances to these, taking with him most of the non-macedian with him most of the non-macedian with him most of the non-macedian troops. Alexander busied himself in troops. Alexander busied himself in troops. Alexander busied himself in Kikia, clearly feeling it safe for his Kikia, clearly feeling it safe for his Kikia, clearly feeling it safe for his army to be divided for the moment until army to be divided for the moment until army to be divided for the moment until news arrived that Das and his army were news arrived that Das and his army were news arrived that Das and his army were at Soki in Syria, far nearer than he had at Soki in Syria, far nearer than he had at Soki in Syria, far nearer than he had suspected and not far from the pass near suspected and not far from the pass near suspected and not far from the pass near the pillar of Jonah. the pillar of Jonah. the pillar of Jonah. Goldsworthy continues. He hurried to Goldsworthy continues. He hurried to Goldsworthy continues. He hurried to reunite the army and then together with reunite the army and then together with reunite the army and then together with Parmin's men he advanced to Isus where a Parmin's men he advanced to Isus where a Parmin's men he advanced to Isus where a depot was established for the heavier depot was established for the heavier depot was established for the heavier baggage and the wounded and sick left baggage and the wounded and sick left baggage and the wounded and sick left behind. The king discussed with his behind. The king discussed with his behind. The king discussed with his officers whether it was better to wait officers whether it was better to wait officers whether it was better to wait for the Persians to come to them or to for the Persians to come to them or to for the Persians to come to them or to advance and all seemed to have favored advance and all seemed to have favored advance and all seemed to have favored aggression. This meant taking one of the aggression. This meant taking one of the aggression. This meant taking one of the three passes, and Alexander decided to three passes, and Alexander decided to three passes, and Alexander decided to head to the southernmost, perhaps head to the southernmost, perhaps head to the southernmost, perhaps because this would keep him by the sea because this would keep him by the sea because this would keep him by the sea for the longest, allowing bulkier for the longest, allowing bulkier for the longest, allowing bulkier supplies to be brought by water." End supplies to be brought by water." End supplies to be brought by water." End quote.

quote. quote. The supplies again, and it's partly why The supplies again, and it's partly why The supplies again, and it's partly why we spent some time on it, are going to we spent some time on it, are going to we spent some time on it, are going to determine what these armies can do. I determine what these armies can do. I determine what these armies can do. I mean, if you can sort of mean, if you can sort of mean, if you can sort of stop the enemy from moving, they have to stop the enemy from moving, they have to stop the enemy from moving, they have to figure something out because they can't figure something out because they can't figure something out because they can't just stay there because of the supply just stay there because of the supply just stay there because of the supply problems. And this plane that the problems. And this plane that the problems. And this plane that the Persians want to fight in, isn't Persians want to fight in, isn't Persians want to fight in, isn't adjacent to the sea, right? It would be adjacent to the sea, right? It would be adjacent to the sea, right? It would be better if it was. Then they could be better if it was. Then they could be better if it was. Then they could be supplied by sea. But that's the area supplied by sea. But that's the area supplied by sea. But that's the area Alexander's blocking. So this Alexander's blocking. So this Alexander's blocking. So this maneuvering, which is such a large part maneuvering, which is such a large part maneuvering, which is such a large part of generalship, is happening. And once of generalship, is happening. And once of generalship, is happening. And once Alexander gets back to, you know, his Alexander gets back to, you know, his Alexander gets back to, you know, his army and and pulls it all together and army and and pulls it all together and army and and pulls it all together and chooses this southernmost route and chooses this southernmost route and chooses this southernmost route and expects to sort of ambush the Persians expects to sort of ambush the Persians expects to sort of ambush the Persians who I was reading, you know, they were who I was reading, you know, they were who I was reading, you know, they were making some estimates of how long the making some estimates of how long the making some estimates of how long the Persian line along the road if you Persian line along the road if you Persian line along the road if you caught it in column would be. And you caught it in column would be. And you caught it in column would be. And you have to imagine Alexander's army just have to imagine Alexander's army just have to imagine Alexander's army just waiting for him in battle formation. and waiting for him in battle formation. and waiting for him in battle formation. and the Persians show up stretched out in a the Persians show up stretched out in a the Persians show up stretched out in a four, five, six person wide column 30 four, five, six person wide column 30 four, five, six person wide column 30 miles long or something. You could see miles long or something. You could see miles long or something. You could see how that would be a huge disadvantage.

how that would be a huge disadvantage. how that would be a huge disadvantage. But apparently Alexander's hoping to But apparently Alexander's hoping to But apparently Alexander's hoping to catch the Persians in a situation like catch the Persians in a situation like catch the Persians in a situation like that. And instead, in a moment that, you that. And instead, in a moment that, you that. And instead, in a moment that, you know, when we're talking about one of know, when we're talking about one of know, when we're talking about one of the greatest generals who ever lived, the greatest generals who ever lived, the greatest generals who ever lived, maybe number one on the list is maybe number one on the list is maybe number one on the list is mind-boggling. mind-boggling. mind-boggling. Alexander's told all of a sudden that Alexander's told all of a sudden that Alexander's told all of a sudden that the Persians are behind him and only the Persians are behind him and only the Persians are behind him and only about 12 and a half miles away. about 12 and a half miles away. about 12 and a half miles away. Boom. Boom. Boom. What? How does that happen? Alexander What? How does that happen? Alexander What? How does that happen? Alexander has to send He doesn't believe it. All has to send He doesn't believe it. All has to send He doesn't believe it. All the sources say he doesn't believe it. the sources say he doesn't believe it. the sources say he doesn't believe it. In my Aubry Delencor translation of In my Aubry Delencor translation of In my Aubry Delencor translation of Aryan and Aryan is usually pretty Aryan and Aryan is usually pretty Aryan and Aryan is usually pretty forgiving about Alexander's uh forgiving about Alexander's uh forgiving about Alexander's uh shortcomings. Uh Aubrey Delen Coror has shortcomings. Uh Aubrey Delen Coror has shortcomings. Uh Aubrey Delen Coror has Aryan saying quote Alexander not Aryan saying quote Alexander not Aryan saying quote Alexander not trusting the report that Das was in his trusting the report that Das was in his trusting the report that Das was in his rear dispatched a party of his rear dispatched a party of his rear dispatched a party of his companions in a galley with orders to companions in a galley with orders to companions in a galley with orders to sail back to Isus and find out for sail back to Isus and find out for sail back to Isus and find out for themselves whether or not it was true. themselves whether or not it was true. themselves whether or not it was true. The coast by Isis Aryan says is deeply The coast by Isis Aryan says is deeply The coast by Isis Aryan says is deeply indented and this fact enabled the party indented and this fact enabled the party indented and this fact enabled the party in the galley the more easily to see in the galley the more easily to see in the galley the more easily to see what they wish to see that the Persians what they wish to see that the Persians what they wish to see that the Persians were there. So back they went to were there. So back they went to were there. So back they went to Alexander with their news. Duras was Alexander with their news. Duras was Alexander with their news. Duras was indeed at hand.

indeed at hand. indeed at hand. End quote. End quote. End quote. Speaking of hands, there's an tradition Speaking of hands, there's an tradition Speaking of hands, there's an tradition a couple of the ancient sources refer to a couple of the ancient sources refer to a couple of the ancient sources refer to one aspect of it or another of Alexander one aspect of it or another of Alexander one aspect of it or another of Alexander fighting out that the Persians were fighting out that the Persians were fighting out that the Persians were behind him when some of his own men, behind him when some of his own men, behind him when some of his own men, some of the sick and wounded he left some of the sick and wounded he left some of the sick and wounded he left behind, you know, in the town of Isis, behind, you know, in the town of Isis, behind, you know, in the town of Isis, show up at his current location, you show up at his current location, you show up at his current location, you know, minus their hands. having had know, minus their hands. having had know, minus their hands. having had their hands chopped off recently and their hands chopped off recently and their hands chopped off recently and cauterized and they show up and say, cauterized and they show up and say, cauterized and they show up and say, "The great king did it. He took the "The great king did it. He took the "The great king did it. He took the whole supply depot you left behind, whole supply depot you left behind, whole supply depot you left behind, killed or tortured. Uh, the people you killed or tortured. Uh, the people you killed or tortured. Uh, the people you left behind and sent us to tell you left behind and sent us to tell you left behind and sent us to tell you about it." One source has that wonderful about it." One source has that wonderful about it." One source has that wonderful trope, and you see it all throughout the trope, and you see it all throughout the trope, and you see it all throughout the Greek and Persian wars. A couple of Greek and Persian wars. A couple of Greek and Persian wars. A couple of Persian kings are supposed to have done Persian kings are supposed to have done Persian kings are supposed to have done this. So either they did this routinely, this. So either they did this routinely, this. So either they did this routinely, which is a possibility, or this is just which is a possibility, or this is just which is a possibility, or this is just one of those tropes you see all the time one of those tropes you see all the time one of those tropes you see all the time that they it's a combination of that they it's a combination of that they it's a combination of depending on how you want to look at it, depending on how you want to look at it, depending on how you want to look at it, confidence or hubris where the Persians, confidence or hubris where the Persians, confidence or hubris where the Persians, you know, will take the spies and you know, will take the spies and you know, will take the spies and instead of just killing them outright, instead of just killing them outright, instead of just killing them outright, we'll just say, "Hey, you wanted to see we'll just say, "Hey, you wanted to see we'll just say, "Hey, you wanted to see what our army looks like? Let me show what our army looks like? Let me show what our army looks like? Let me show you." And, you know, show the vastness you." And, you know, show the vastness you." And, you know, show the vastness of it, cut off their hands because they of it, cut off their hands because they of it, cut off their hands because they are spies after all. send him back to, are spies after all. send him back to, are spies after all. send him back to, you know, in this case Alexander, but you know, in this case Alexander, but you know, in this case Alexander, but whomever and say, uh, you know, we don't whomever and say, uh, you know, we don't whomever and say, uh, you know, we don't care what you tell him. Tell him how big care what you tell him. Tell him how big care what you tell him. Tell him how big the army is that's coming for him. But the army is that's coming for him. But the army is that's coming for him. But all that makes Alexander do what I read all that makes Alexander do what I read all that makes Alexander do what I read once about Joe Frasier that he looked at once about Joe Frasier that he looked at once about Joe Frasier that he looked at opponents as something good to eat in opponents as something good to eat in opponents as something good to eat in the boxing ring. That's how Alexander the boxing ring. That's how Alexander the boxing ring. That's how Alexander looks at this. He wants this. That's the looks at this. He wants this. That's the looks at this. He wants this. That's the difference. The great king had gotten difference. The great king had gotten difference. The great king had gotten different information supposedly, by the

different information supposedly, by the different information supposedly, by the way, just before this time that way, just before this time that way, just before this time that Alexander wanted no part of him. This is Alexander wanted no part of him. This is Alexander wanted no part of him. This is part of the explanation that the ancient part of the explanation that the ancient part of the explanation that the ancient sources give for why the great king came sources give for why the great king came sources give for why the great king came up here into the narrows to begin with up here into the narrows to begin with up here into the narrows to begin with because it's a long-standing question. because it's a long-standing question. because it's a long-standing question. If you have such a great position for If you have such a great position for If you have such a great position for your army and your cavalry in northern your army and your cavalry in northern your army and your cavalry in northern Syria, why even go up in the narrows Syria, why even go up in the narrows Syria, why even go up in the narrows where Alexander is? Well, because maybe where Alexander is? Well, because maybe where Alexander is? Well, because maybe you think he's not coming down. you think he's not coming down. you think he's not coming down. This is supposedly part of a debate and This is supposedly part of a debate and This is supposedly part of a debate and all of our major sources have it where all of our major sources have it where all of our major sources have it where when Alexander is sick, remember after when Alexander is sick, remember after when Alexander is sick, remember after the Gordian knot thing, he had malaria the Gordian knot thing, he had malaria the Gordian knot thing, he had malaria or something. there's this delay. It's or something. there's this delay. It's or something. there's this delay. It's uncharacteristic. Um Aori and other uncharacteristic. Um Aori and other uncharacteristic. Um Aori and other sources here point out that the great sources here point out that the great sources here point out that the great king was wondering what the hell's going king was wondering what the hell's going king was wondering what the hell's going on? Where is he? Why isn't he coming? on? Where is he? Why isn't he coming? on? Where is he? Why isn't he coming? And his flatterers, Aryan talks about And his flatterers, Aryan talks about And his flatterers, Aryan talks about this as yes men is bootlickers, which of this as yes men is bootlickers, which of this as yes men is bootlickers, which of course is part of that prejudice and course is part of that prejudice and course is part of that prejudice and bigotry and ethnosentrism that the west bigotry and ethnosentrism that the west bigotry and ethnosentrism that the west would have of the east. The bootlickers would have of the east. The bootlickers would have of the east. The bootlickers are just saying because he's afraid of are just saying because he's afraid of are just saying because he's afraid of you. He's delaying because he doesn't you. He's delaying because he doesn't you. He's delaying because he doesn't want to face your greatness and our want to face your greatness and our want to face your greatness and our cavalry and all the and the only people cavalry and all the and the only people cavalry and all the and the only people of course as usual now that Menon is of course as usual now that Menon is of course as usual now that Menon is dead. You have to find some other Greco dead. You have to find some other Greco dead. You have to find some other Greco Macedonian source who can be the one who Macedonian source who can be the one who Macedonian source who can be the one who gives the great king the only competent gives the great king the only competent gives the great king the only competent advice out there. And there's a couple advice out there. And there's a couple advice out there. And there's a couple of people. It's actually one person, but of people. It's actually one person, but of people. It's actually one person, but the different sources give it a the different sources give it a the different sources give it a different name and a different different name and a different different name and a different background, but it plays the same role.

background, but it plays the same role. background, but it plays the same role. This Greco Macedonian in the Persian This Greco Macedonian in the Persian This Greco Macedonian in the Persian court, he's the only one who could be court, he's the only one who could be court, he's the only one who could be trusted to give halfway decent advice. trusted to give halfway decent advice. trusted to give halfway decent advice. And the decent advice is don't move. And the decent advice is don't move. And the decent advice is don't move. Stay here. This is a good spot. And Stay here. This is a good spot. And Stay here. This is a good spot. And don't kid yourself. He's not afraid of don't kid yourself. He's not afraid of don't kid yourself. He's not afraid of you. the minute he knows where you are, you. the minute he knows where you are, you. the minute he knows where you are, he's coming for you. And in typical he's coming for you. And in typical he's coming for you. And in typical fashion, uh, they are brushed aside or fashion, uh, they are brushed aside or fashion, uh, they are brushed aside or they are ignored or in one of the they are ignored or in one of the they are ignored or in one of the stories, they're actually killed for stories, they're actually killed for stories, they're actually killed for insinuating that the Persians are a insinuating that the Persians are a insinuating that the Persians are a bunch of women and the great king heads bunch of women and the great king heads bunch of women and the great king heads up north. Now, this brings us to the up north. Now, this brings us to the up north. Now, this brings us to the other situation that has been talked other situation that has been talked other situation that has been talked about for thousands of years. Did the about for thousands of years. Did the about for thousands of years. Did the great king mean to outflank Alexander or great king mean to outflank Alexander or great king mean to outflank Alexander or was that an accident? was that an accident? was that an accident? And you will find very good people on And you will find very good people on And you will find very good people on all sides of this question. Alexander all sides of this question. Alexander all sides of this question. Alexander fans will get into fist fights about it. fans will get into fist fights about it. fans will get into fist fights about it. Um, putting words into the mouth of Um, putting words into the mouth of Um, putting words into the mouth of people like the great Pierre Bon, but people like the great Pierre Bon, but people like the great Pierre Bon, but they're always defending the Persian they're always defending the Persian they're always defending the Persian side from the typical sort of slurs they side from the typical sort of slurs they side from the typical sort of slurs they would get from the fact we have the would get from the fact we have the would get from the fact we have the Greek sources. But I mean, I can see Greek sources. But I mean, I can see Greek sources. But I mean, I can see them saying if Alexander had outflanked them saying if Alexander had outflanked them saying if Alexander had outflanked the Persians, we would have no problem the Persians, we would have no problem the Persians, we would have no problem saying, "Aha, look at his operational saying, "Aha, look at his operational saying, "Aha, look at his operational brilliance here. Look what he's done."

brilliance here. Look what he's done." brilliance here. Look what he's done." But when the Persians do it, it's an But when the Persians do it, it's an But when the Persians do it, it's an accident. And maybe it was. accident. And maybe it was. accident. And maybe it was. But here's the way I look at it, just so But here's the way I look at it, just so But here's the way I look at it, just so you know my own biases. You should you know my own biases. You should you know my own biases. You should understand where I'm coming from. But I understand where I'm coming from. But I understand where I'm coming from. But I find it hard enough to believe that if find it hard enough to believe that if find it hard enough to believe that if the Persians are running with an army of the Persians are running with an army of the Persians are running with an army of 100,000, 120,000, 100,000, 120,000, 100,000, 120,000, how that can get within 13 miles of how that can get within 13 miles of how that can get within 13 miles of Alexander and he not know about it. Got Alexander and he not know about it. Got Alexander and he not know about it. Got to wait till a bunch of guys with no to wait till a bunch of guys with no to wait till a bunch of guys with no hands show up to tell him. with Palmino hands show up to tell him. with Palmino hands show up to tell him. with Palmino operating, you know, with scout cavalry operating, you know, with scout cavalry operating, you know, with scout cavalry all through those passes. That's hard all through those passes. That's hard all through those passes. That's hard enough for me to believe. But then enough for me to believe. But then enough for me to believe. But then you're going to tell me that the you're going to tell me that the you're going to tell me that the Persians with an army, as we said, of Persians with an army, as we said, of Persians with an army, as we said, of 120,000, tons of light cavalry, tons of 120,000, tons of light cavalry, tons of 120,000, tons of light cavalry, tons of scouting, operating in their own land, scouting, operating in their own land, scouting, operating in their own land, where they would expect, of course, get where they would expect, of course, get where they would expect, of course, get all kinds of extra information from the all kinds of extra information from the all kinds of extra information from the locals. They're unaware of a 40 to locals. They're unaware of a 40 to locals. They're unaware of a 40 to 50,000 man army within 13 miles of them. 50,000 man army within 13 miles of them. 50,000 man army within 13 miles of them. I don't know, maybe it's just me. That I don't know, maybe it's just me. That I don't know, maybe it's just me. That seems like a lot. seems like a lot. seems like a lot. But just know historians have debated But just know historians have debated But just know historians have debated that forever. It's an open question in that forever. It's an open question in that forever. It's an open question in one way or another. The Persians are on, one way or another. The Persians are on, one way or another. The Persians are on, you know, Alexander's line of supply, you know, Alexander's line of supply, you know, Alexander's line of supply, which one would think is a negative. And which one would think is a negative. And which one would think is a negative. And yet maybe he would come back with the yet maybe he would come back with the yet maybe he would come back with the counterargument that, yeah, but I got counterargument that, yeah, but I got counterargument that, yeah, but I got him out of northern Syria, maneuvered him out of northern Syria, maneuvered him out of northern Syria, maneuvered them out of that area. Now they're in my them out of that area. Now they're in my them out of that area. Now they're in my neck of the woods, the Narrows, where my neck of the woods, the Narrows, where my neck of the woods, the Narrows, where my army size isn't a problem, and their army size isn't a problem, and their army size isn't a problem, and their army size is.

army size is. army size is. Speaking of that, probably worth Speaking of that, probably worth Speaking of that, probably worth updating Alexander's army size here, or updating Alexander's army size here, or updating Alexander's army size here, or at least the range that can be expected. at least the range that can be expected. at least the range that can be expected. Far more consistent and realistic than Far more consistent and realistic than Far more consistent and realistic than Persian numbers. Depends on who you want Persian numbers. Depends on who you want Persian numbers. Depends on who you want to choose, of course, but the range is to choose, of course, but the range is to choose, of course, but the range is much more narrow. Anywhere from like much more narrow. Anywhere from like much more narrow. Anywhere from like 35,000 35,000 35,000 men to just under 50,000 is is the sort men to just under 50,000 is is the sort men to just under 50,000 is is the sort of acceptable range in there. of acceptable range in there. of acceptable range in there. Out of that there's probably something Out of that there's probably something Out of that there's probably something like 25,000 like 25,000 like 25,000 sort of of the close order heavy sort of of the close order heavy sort of of the close order heavy infantry types. A lot of them infantry types. A lot of them infantry types. A lot of them felangites, but more hoplights than you felangites, but more hoplights than you felangites, but more hoplights than you might think. might think. might think. Mercenary hoplights, allied hoplights. Mercenary hoplights, allied hoplights. Mercenary hoplights, allied hoplights. There's about 3,000 or so of the There's about 3,000 or so of the There's about 3,000 or so of the hypospists that are sort of a hypospists that are sort of a hypospists that are sort of a combination of guards and sort of combination of guards and sort of combination of guards and sort of specialists. specialists. specialists. Uh 8 to 10,000 sort of light infantry. Uh 8 to 10,000 sort of light infantry. Uh 8 to 10,000 sort of light infantry. You got your Thrians and your Yrianss You got your Thrians and your Yrianss You got your Thrians and your Yrianss who are a little like going and getting who are a little like going and getting who are a little like going and getting your native troops in the colonial era. your native troops in the colonial era. your native troops in the colonial era. You got to have some of the people who You got to have some of the people who You got to have some of the people who are used to fighting in broken country are used to fighting in broken country are used to fighting in broken country and tracking signs and and they're just and tracking signs and and they're just and tracking signs and and they're just maybe from the Alexandrian point of view maybe from the Alexandrian point of view maybe from the Alexandrian point of view a little canon fodderish, but you got to a little canon fodderish, but you got to a little canon fodderish, but you got to have guys like that. Then you have the a have guys like that. Then you have the a have guys like that. Then you have the a thousand guys who are the Iranians and thousand guys who are the Iranians and thousand guys who are the Iranians and the archers that Alexander loves his the archers that Alexander loves his the archers that Alexander loves his girkas and special forces and he uses girkas and special forces and he uses girkas and special forces and he uses them all the time. time they've become them all the time. time they've become them all the time. time they've become elite. They're not they weren't elite elite. They're not they weren't elite elite. They're not they weren't elite before. They're elite now just by before. They're elite now just by before. They're elite now just by experience alone.

experience alone. experience alone. And then something like 5,000 cavalry or And then something like 5,000 cavalry or And then something like 5,000 cavalry or so. so. so. A decent number of them, the core of A decent number of them, the core of A decent number of them, the core of them are those um you know heavy cavalry them are those um you know heavy cavalry them are those um you know heavy cavalry lancers, the Macedonian companions and lancers, the Macedonian companions and lancers, the Macedonian companions and sort of their mere images, the the sort of their mere images, the the sort of their mere images, the the salons. And normally they're in equal salons. And normally they're in equal salons. And normally they're in equal numbers, you know, just under like 2,000 numbers, you know, just under like 2,000 numbers, you know, just under like 2,000 of each of them. of each of them. of each of them. And when I was a kid, we used to think And when I was a kid, we used to think And when I was a kid, we used to think of these as almost ethnic units, but of these as almost ethnic units, but of these as almost ethnic units, but more the modern histories want you to more the modern histories want you to more the modern histories want you to see, especially since Alexander's dad's see, especially since Alexander's dad's see, especially since Alexander's dad's time where he was taken just almost like time where he was taken just almost like time where he was taken just almost like free booters and soldiers of fortune and free booters and soldiers of fortune and free booters and soldiers of fortune and any people who actually met the any people who actually met the any people who actually met the qualifications and looked like they qualifications and looked like they qualifications and looked like they deserve it. I mean there was an deserve it. I mean there was an deserve it. I mean there was an Arthurian night of the round table kind Arthurian night of the round table kind Arthurian night of the round table kind of view of it if you want to look at it of view of it if you want to look at it of view of it if you want to look at it in a high-minded way. a 1977 in a high-minded way. a 1977 in a high-minded way. a 1977 Oakland Raiders viewpoint if you want to Oakland Raiders viewpoint if you want to Oakland Raiders viewpoint if you want to look at it another way you know so all look at it another way you know so all look at it another way you know so all the castoffs and all these people you the castoffs and all these people you the castoffs and all these people you can't find elsewhere and in addition to can't find elsewhere and in addition to can't find elsewhere and in addition to those guys you probably have 1,500 those guys you probably have 1,500 those guys you probably have 1,500 other Greek or other light cavalry other Greek or other light cavalry other Greek or other light cavalry that is a large very large army by that is a large very large army by that is a large very large army by ancient um sort of Greek standards but ancient um sort of Greek standards but ancient um sort of Greek standards but if we're looking at this in terms of you if we're looking at this in terms of you if we're looking at this in terms of you know some of the largest battles in the know some of the largest battles in the know some of the largest battles in the ancient world, which the Battle of V is ancient world, which the Battle of V is ancient world, which the Battle of V is going to be somewhere on the on the going to be somewhere on the on the going to be somewhere on the on the list. This is a pretty nimble army. I list. This is a pretty nimble army. I list. This is a pretty nimble army. I mean, size-wise, uh you don't feel like mean, size-wise, uh you don't feel like mean, size-wise, uh you don't feel like it's going to be some gigantic immobile it's going to be some gigantic immobile it's going to be some gigantic immobile force. The Persians, as we said, I mean,

force. The Persians, as we said, I mean, force. The Persians, as we said, I mean, you could go the numbers can be anywhere you could go the numbers can be anywhere you could go the numbers can be anywhere from 50 or 60,000, which if those are from 50 or 60,000, which if those are from 50 or 60,000, which if those are the numbers, it's a whole different the numbers, it's a whole different the numbers, it's a whole different situation than everybody's been looking situation than everybody's been looking situation than everybody's been looking at, to something more in the 80,000, at, to something more in the 80,000, at, to something more in the 80,000, 100, you just don't know. 100, you just don't know. 100, you just don't know. We did mention that the Persians are We did mention that the Persians are We did mention that the Persians are going to have some units now with the going to have some units now with the going to have some units now with the Royal Army that they didn't have at the Royal Army that they didn't have at the Royal Army that they didn't have at the Granicus because that wasn't a royal Granicus because that wasn't a royal Granicus because that wasn't a royal army. And there's two groups army. And there's two groups army. And there's two groups specifically I'd like to bring up specifically I'd like to bring up specifically I'd like to bring up because they're worth talking about cuz because they're worth talking about cuz because they're worth talking about cuz they're impact units or at least there's they're impact units or at least there's they're impact units or at least there's a lot of them in some cases. The impact a lot of them in some cases. The impact a lot of them in some cases. The impact units are you get some of this heavy units are you get some of this heavy units are you get some of this heavy cavalry. The guys we used to call them cavalry. The guys we used to call them cavalry. The guys we used to call them in wargaming extra heavy cavalry in wargaming extra heavy cavalry in wargaming extra heavy cavalry men who have armor all over them and men who have armor all over them and men who have armor all over them and horses who have a lot of armor. Not horses who have a lot of armor. Not horses who have a lot of armor. Not quite the catifacts of the Parthion or quite the catifacts of the Parthion or quite the catifacts of the Parthion or the Sissanid era, but very armored the Sissanid era, but very armored the Sissanid era, but very armored comparatively. And again, you don't comparatively. And again, you don't comparatively. And again, you don't armor people like that usually to have armor people like that usually to have armor people like that usually to have them uh ride around and shoot you from a them uh ride around and shoot you from a them uh ride around and shoot you from a distance because it slows you down. uh distance because it slows you down. uh distance because it slows you down. uh these guys are more meant to carve their these guys are more meant to carve their these guys are more meant to carve their way through enemy cavalry mainly and way through enemy cavalry mainly and way through enemy cavalry mainly and certainly to go after enemy leaders or certainly to go after enemy leaders or certainly to go after enemy leaders or what have you. These guys were not what have you. These guys were not what have you. These guys were not around at the river Granicus. And then around at the river Granicus. And then around at the river Granicus. And then you have an interesting troop type, the you have an interesting troop type, the you have an interesting troop type, the so-called cardes.

so-called cardes. so-called cardes. And there are arguments forever about And there are arguments forever about And there are arguments forever about who these guys are. But the reason that who these guys are. But the reason that who these guys are. But the reason that it's worth pointing out that they exist it's worth pointing out that they exist it's worth pointing out that they exist is because there are allegedly a lot of is because there are allegedly a lot of is because there are allegedly a lot of them at this battle, maybe 60,000 of them at this battle, maybe 60,000 of them at this battle, maybe 60,000 of them. They seem to be hoplights. Maybe them. They seem to be hoplights. Maybe them. They seem to be hoplights. Maybe the Persian attempt to recreate a troop the Persian attempt to recreate a troop the Persian attempt to recreate a troop type that traditionally they were weak type that traditionally they were weak type that traditionally they were weak in. They didn't they didn't generally in. They didn't they didn't generally in. They didn't they didn't generally manufacture hoplights of the Greek manufacture hoplights of the Greek manufacture hoplights of the Greek style. And if you look at the enemies style. And if you look at the enemies style. And if you look at the enemies they usually fought, they didn't need they usually fought, they didn't need they usually fought, they didn't need to. I mean, if you're fighting schyians to. I mean, if you're fighting schyians to. I mean, if you're fighting schyians on your northeastern border, remember on your northeastern border, remember on your northeastern border, remember the Persian Empire almost the size of the Persian Empire almost the size of the Persian Empire almost the size of the United States. If you're fighting a the United States. If you're fighting a the United States. If you're fighting a bunch of scheians on your northeastern bunch of scheians on your northeastern bunch of scheians on your northeastern border, they're a bunch of horse border, they're a bunch of horse border, they're a bunch of horse archers. What do you want? You want archers. What do you want? You want archers. What do you want? You want archers yourself. You don't need a bunch archers yourself. You don't need a bunch archers yourself. You don't need a bunch of hoplights, but against hoplights, you of hoplights, but against hoplights, you of hoplights, but against hoplights, you do. And so, the Persians have been do. And so, the Persians have been do. And so, the Persians have been hiring them. At this battle, they hiring them. At this battle, they hiring them. At this battle, they allegedly hired 30,000 of them. allegedly hired 30,000 of them. allegedly hired 30,000 of them. Now, there's a lot to unpack here, and Now, there's a lot to unpack here, and Now, there's a lot to unpack here, and it's important because these it's important because these it's important because these 30,000 Greek mercenary hoplights, or 30,000 Greek mercenary hoplights, or 30,000 Greek mercenary hoplights, or however many there actually are, form however many there actually are, form however many there actually are, form sort of the heart of the great king's at sort of the heart of the great king's at sort of the heart of the great king's at least infantry portion of his army here.

least infantry portion of his army here. least infantry portion of his army here. I mean, they're the spine that he sort I mean, they're the spine that he sort I mean, they're the spine that he sort of builds the battle line around. So, of builds the battle line around. So, of builds the battle line around. So, they're kind of important. And you will they're kind of important. And you will they're kind of important. And you will see people argue about the numbers all see people argue about the numbers all see people argue about the numbers all the time. And the historians run the the time. And the historians run the the time. And the historians run the gamut. I mean, and it's a wide range gamut. I mean, and it's a wide range gamut. I mean, and it's a wide range from those who believe you couldn't find from those who believe you couldn't find from those who believe you couldn't find 30,000 mercenary Greek hoplights for 30,000 mercenary Greek hoplights for 30,000 mercenary Greek hoplights for hire across the entire Mediterranean hire across the entire Mediterranean hire across the entire Mediterranean world during this time period to those world during this time period to those world during this time period to those who think it would be no problem and who think it would be no problem and who think it would be no problem and everywhere in between. everywhere in between. everywhere in between. Does seem pretty clear that the great Does seem pretty clear that the great Does seem pretty clear that the great king was recalling and scouring the king was recalling and scouring the king was recalling and scouring the Greek hoplights he already had in his Greek hoplights he already had in his Greek hoplights he already had in his service from everywhere else they were service from everywhere else they were service from everywhere else they were busy. I mean, part of the reason that busy. I mean, part of the reason that busy. I mean, part of the reason that Menon's idea to take the fighting back Menon's idea to take the fighting back Menon's idea to take the fighting back to Greece, or at least the Greek islands to Greece, or at least the Greek islands to Greece, or at least the Greek islands is supposed to have stalled is because is supposed to have stalled is because is supposed to have stalled is because the great king took all the mercenary the great king took all the mercenary the great king took all the mercenary hoplights he was using, brought them hoplights he was using, brought them hoplights he was using, brought them back so they could be here for this back so they could be here for this back so they could be here for this battle at Isis, you know, in late battle at Isis, you know, in late battle at Isis, you know, in late October, early November 33 BCE. October, early November 33 BCE. October, early November 33 BCE. So, however many there are, he clearly So, however many there are, he clearly So, however many there are, he clearly put quite a bit of effort and sacrificed put quite a bit of effort and sacrificed put quite a bit of effort and sacrificed quite a bit of progress in other areas quite a bit of progress in other areas quite a bit of progress in other areas to get them here, but 30,000 would mean to get them here, but 30,000 would mean to get them here, but 30,000 would mean that they would probably slightly that they would probably slightly that they would probably slightly outnumber Alexander's heavy infantry outnumber Alexander's heavy infantry outnumber Alexander's heavy infantry contingent all by themselves. And contingent all by themselves. And contingent all by themselves. And remember, his heavy infantry contingent remember, his heavy infantry contingent remember, his heavy infantry contingent probably only has about probably only has about probably only has about 12,000, let's just say 12,000 or so 12,000, let's just say 12,000 or so 12,000, let's just say 12,000 or so actual fangites.

actual fangites. actual fangites. the rest being hoplights like these the rest being hoplights like these the rest being hoplights like these guys. And I remember one of my guys. And I remember one of my guys. And I remember one of my professors saying, "Not all hoplights professors saying, "Not all hoplights professors saying, "Not all hoplights are created equal, even if we think so are created equal, even if we think so are created equal, even if we think so in our head." There could be quite a a in our head." There could be quite a a in our head." There could be quite a a lot of difference between a hoplight for lot of difference between a hoplight for lot of difference between a hoplight for example who is a citizen soldier mostly example who is a citizen soldier mostly example who is a citizen soldier mostly a farmer in a small place like Platea a farmer in a small place like Platea a farmer in a small place like Platea who you know trains with his neighbors a who you know trains with his neighbors a who you know trains with his neighbors a few times of the year keeps the armor few times of the year keeps the armor few times of the year keeps the armor above the hearth if necessary and maybe above the hearth if necessary and maybe above the hearth if necessary and maybe a few times in his life actually has to a few times in his life actually has to a few times in his life actually has to put it on and really go out there and put it on and really go out there and put it on and really go out there and fight. Big difference between that guy fight. Big difference between that guy fight. Big difference between that guy and these people who fight and these people who fight and these people who fight professionally for the great king professionally for the great king professionally for the great king because this is all these people do. because this is all these people do. because this is all these people do. They aren't part-time warriors and they They aren't part-time warriors and they They aren't part-time warriors and they aren't anytime farmers. They're aren't anytime farmers. They're aren't anytime farmers. They're professional soldiers. Their officers professional soldiers. Their officers professional soldiers. Their officers usually have tons of experience. Uh, a usually have tons of experience. Uh, a usually have tons of experience. Uh, a lot of times these units are actually lot of times these units are actually lot of times these units are actually enrolled in the service of their enrolled in the service of their enrolled in the service of their employer as whole units. So, they're employer as whole units. So, they're employer as whole units. So, they're used to fighting together, at least on used to fighting together, at least on used to fighting together, at least on the unit level. the unit level. the unit level. These are probably as good as hoplights These are probably as good as hoplights These are probably as good as hoplights get. The problem for them is that get. The problem for them is that get. The problem for them is that Alexander's felangite failank was Alexander's felangite failank was Alexander's felangite failank was designed by his father specifically as a designed by his father specifically as a designed by his father specifically as a hoplight killing machine. We talked all hoplight killing machine. We talked all hoplight killing machine. We talked all about that in the early installment of about that in the early installment of about that in the early installment of this series.

this series. this series. But if that's still the best heavy But if that's still the best heavy But if that's still the best heavy infantry the great king can get his infantry the great king can get his infantry the great king can get his hands on, what are you going to do? And hands on, what are you going to do? And hands on, what are you going to do? And as far as what these cardes are, well, as far as what these cardes are, well, as far as what these cardes are, well, majority opinion has leaned for quite majority opinion has leaned for quite majority opinion has leaned for quite some time that they are the home, as we some time that they are the home, as we some time that they are the home, as we said, homegrown version of a Persian said, homegrown version of a Persian said, homegrown version of a Persian hoplight. But there's still a hoplight. But there's still a hoplight. But there's still a significant minority significant minority significant minority um position out there that may be that um position out there that may be that um position out there that may be that they may be some other kind of troop they may be some other kind of troop they may be some other kind of troop type. Maybe a hybrid light and medium or type. Maybe a hybrid light and medium or type. Maybe a hybrid light and medium or medium and heavy infantry. Hard to know. medium and heavy infantry. Hard to know. medium and heavy infantry. Hard to know. All I can say is this. If they were All I can say is this. If they were All I can say is this. If they were anything like that, to put 60,000 of anything like that, to put 60,000 of anything like that, to put 60,000 of them in front of Alexander on the battle them in front of Alexander on the battle them in front of Alexander on the battle line is um well, you're going to get line is um well, you're going to get line is um well, you're going to get what you deserve then. what you deserve then. what you deserve then. And finally, besides, you know, this And finally, besides, you know, this And finally, besides, you know, this heavy infantry and the large numbers of heavy infantry and the large numbers of heavy infantry and the large numbers of Persian cavalry, which is their their Persian cavalry, which is their their Persian cavalry, which is their their warwinning or their at least warwinning or their at least warwinning or their at least battlewinning arm of their army, you battlewinning arm of their army, you battlewinning arm of their army, you have the innumerable, and the ancient have the innumerable, and the ancient have the innumerable, and the ancient sources always make it sound sources always make it sound sources always make it sound innumerable, but it's not hard to innumerable, but it's not hard to innumerable, but it's not hard to believe that they could bring out all believe that they could bring out all believe that they could bring out all kinds of people with bows, uh, with kinds of people with bows, uh, with kinds of people with bows, uh, with slings, with javelins, just as many as slings, with javelins, just as many as slings, with javelins, just as many as you want who can just run around you want who can just run around you want who can just run around skirmishing.

skirmishing. skirmishing. And so they have tons of those people, And so they have tons of those people, And so they have tons of those people, too. too. too. Now, the first thing we should know Now, the first thing we should know Now, the first thing we should know before we talk about the night before before we talk about the night before before we talk about the night before this battle is that in order to get to this battle is that in order to get to this battle is that in order to get to this battle, Alexander has to retrace this battle, Alexander has to retrace this battle, Alexander has to retrace his steps and turn around as we said. his steps and turn around as we said. his steps and turn around as we said. And what that means is when you look at And what that means is when you look at And what that means is when you look at a schematic of this battle or if you're a schematic of this battle or if you're a schematic of this battle or if you're looking at it from a satellite image, uh looking at it from a satellite image, uh looking at it from a satellite image, uh the battle looks like it's upside down the battle looks like it's upside down the battle looks like it's upside down or backwards or reversed. The Persians or backwards or reversed. The Persians or backwards or reversed. The Persians look like they should be where the look like they should be where the look like they should be where the Greeks are and vice versa. But that's Greeks are and vice versa. But that's Greeks are and vice versa. But that's because both sides have kind of turned because both sides have kind of turned because both sides have kind of turned around, right? One got behind the other. around, right? One got behind the other. around, right? One got behind the other. Then they both reversed facing. So the Then they both reversed facing. So the Then they both reversed facing. So the Persians look like they're where the Persians look like they're where the Persians look like they're where the Greeks should be and vice versa. The Greeks should be and vice versa. The Greeks should be and vice versa. The Greeks are facing north, the Persians Greeks are facing north, the Persians Greeks are facing north, the Persians are facing south. They have a river are facing south. They have a river are facing south. They have a river between them. We are not sure which one between them. We are not sure which one between them. We are not sure which one as I mentioned, but whichever one it is, as I mentioned, but whichever one it is, as I mentioned, but whichever one it is, it seems to be more of a of an it seems to be more of a of an it seems to be more of a of an impediment or a influence on the battle impediment or a influence on the battle impediment or a influence on the battle than the Granicus was. than the Granicus was. than the Granicus was. And interestingly enough, at least to And interestingly enough, at least to And interestingly enough, at least to me, we are told that in the places where me, we are told that in the places where me, we are told that in the places where the river is more forable, right, the the river is more forable, right, the the river is more forable, right, the parts where it'd be more likely to uh parts where it'd be more likely to uh parts where it'd be more likely to uh get troops trying to run across it, the get troops trying to run across it, the get troops trying to run across it, the Persians have placed defenses.

Persians have placed defenses. Persians have placed defenses. Now, as a longtime owner of a Persian Now, as a longtime owner of a Persian Now, as a longtime owner of a Persian wargaming army, I love this idea. I want wargaming army, I love this idea. I want wargaming army, I love this idea. I want as many defenses as I can get when I'm as many defenses as I can get when I'm as many defenses as I can get when I'm facing Alexander's army. But Aryan, who facing Alexander's army. But Aryan, who facing Alexander's army. But Aryan, who should have, one would think, know should have, one would think, know should have, one would think, know better since he comes from the Roman better since he comes from the Roman better since he comes from the Roman era. And who builds more fortifications era. And who builds more fortifications era. And who builds more fortifications when they're just sitting around with when they're just sitting around with when they're just sitting around with their army than the Romans do? But Aryan their army than the Romans do? But Aryan their army than the Romans do? But Aryan says that basically the Macedonians when says that basically the Macedonians when says that basically the Macedonians when they saw that there were fortifications they saw that there were fortifications they saw that there were fortifications took it as a sign of weakness. They knew took it as a sign of weakness. They knew took it as a sign of weakness. They knew that the Persians were beaten from the that the Persians were beaten from the that the Persians were beaten from the moment they saw that no spirit. moment they saw that no spirit. moment they saw that no spirit. But what these fortifications were and But what these fortifications were and But what these fortifications were and exactly how they were laid out is not exactly how they were laid out is not exactly how they were laid out is not exactly known. A lot of speculation. I exactly known. A lot of speculation. I exactly known. A lot of speculation. I have three versions of Aryan in front of have three versions of Aryan in front of have three versions of Aryan in front of me all use I mean well two of them use me all use I mean well two of them use me all use I mean well two of them use the word stockade to describe the um the word stockade to describe the um the word stockade to describe the um fortifications. The panel mench version fortifications. The panel mench version fortifications. The panel mench version calls it a palisade. In his book, In the calls it a palisade. In his book, In the calls it a palisade. In his book, In the Path of Conquest, the great Voldemar Path of Conquest, the great Voldemar Path of Conquest, the great Voldemar Heckle calls it an abbotus, which I had Heckle calls it an abbotus, which I had Heckle calls it an abbotus, which I had to go look up.

to go look up. to go look up. Seems like they're all variations though Seems like they're all variations though Seems like they're all variations though on the, you know, get yourself a tree on the, you know, get yourself a tree on the, you know, get yourself a tree trunk, sharpen both ends of it, stick trunk, sharpen both ends of it, stick trunk, sharpen both ends of it, stick one sharpened end in the ground at an one sharpened end in the ground at an one sharpened end in the ground at an angle, uh, stick the other end out, and angle, uh, stick the other end out, and angle, uh, stick the other end out, and then put a bunch of, you know, very then put a bunch of, you know, very then put a bunch of, you know, very similarly carved tree trunks next to it. similarly carved tree trunks next to it. similarly carved tree trunks next to it. might resemble a sort of frontier era uh might resemble a sort of frontier era uh might resemble a sort of frontier era uh fort. fort. fort. But to me, that looks like a great idea. But to me, that looks like a great idea. But to me, that looks like a great idea. As we said, Aryan, who comes from the As we said, Aryan, who comes from the As we said, Aryan, who comes from the Roman era where Marius's mules were a Roman era where Marius's mules were a Roman era where Marius's mules were a thing. Well, that was the Republican thing. Well, that was the Republican thing. Well, that was the Republican era. He's a little later than that. But era. He's a little later than that. But era. He's a little later than that. But I mean, Julius Caesar's guys were I mean, Julius Caesar's guys were I mean, Julius Caesar's guys were building fortifications if they sat building fortifications if they sat building fortifications if they sat around for 5 seconds. Uh but the around for 5 seconds. Uh but the around for 5 seconds. Uh but the Persians are women for wanting Persians are women for wanting Persians are women for wanting fortifications. These fortifications, by fortifications. These fortifications, by fortifications. These fortifications, by the way, will come in handy. Uh, no one the way, will come in handy. Uh, no one the way, will come in handy. Uh, no one knows exactly what this river looked knows exactly what this river looked knows exactly what this river looked like uh during this time period because like uh during this time period because like uh during this time period because they're not even sure which of three they're not even sure which of three they're not even sure which of three rivers it is. But none of them probably rivers it is. But none of them probably rivers it is. But none of them probably looked the way uh this one did. This one looked the way uh this one did. This one looked the way uh this one did. This one was probably deeper uh wider, faster was probably deeper uh wider, faster was probably deeper uh wider, faster flowing, higher banks, all that stuff, flowing, higher banks, all that stuff, flowing, higher banks, all that stuff, right? Once you start damning things up, right? Once you start damning things up, right? Once you start damning things up, once you start needing more water, once once you start needing more water, once once you start needing more water, once things get I mean, whatever. I mean, things get I mean, whatever. I mean, things get I mean, whatever. I mean, it's just probably the case in all the it's just probably the case in all the it's just probably the case in all the rivers in that area. might have been a rivers in that area. might have been a rivers in that area. might have been a little bit more natural during this time little bit more natural during this time little bit more natural during this time period.

period. period. And between dealing with those kinds of And between dealing with those kinds of And between dealing with those kinds of banks, the riverbed, the rocks, the banks, the riverbed, the rocks, the banks, the riverbed, the rocks, the steepness of the of the sides, and the steepness of the of the sides, and the steepness of the of the sides, and the fact that the few natural places where fact that the few natural places where fact that the few natural places where you would want to sort of use as you would want to sort of use as you would want to sort of use as pathways up the other side's bank, those pathways up the other side's bank, those pathways up the other side's bank, those are going to have the stockade or are going to have the stockade or are going to have the stockade or palisade or abbitus blocking the way. palisade or abbitus blocking the way. palisade or abbitus blocking the way. Now, we should recall because we're Now, we should recall because we're Now, we should recall because we're going to deal with the night before in a going to deal with the night before in a going to deal with the night before in a second cuz I'm fascinated with the night second cuz I'm fascinated with the night second cuz I'm fascinated with the night before. And the night before before. And the night before before. And the night before an ancient or medieval battle is an ancient or medieval battle is an ancient or medieval battle is somewhat different than the night before somewhat different than the night before somewhat different than the night before one in the first or the second world one in the first or the second world one in the first or the second world war, for example. And we talked about war, for example. And we talked about war, for example. And we talked about this with the river granicus, and we've this with the river granicus, and we've this with the river granicus, and we've discussed it before. It's the stakes. discussed it before. It's the stakes. discussed it before. It's the stakes. There were just so There were just so There were just so few battles in wars in the earlier few battles in wars in the earlier few battles in wars in the earlier histories than there are later that each histories than there are later that each histories than there are later that each battle took on greater significance. I battle took on greater significance. I battle took on greater significance. I mean, in a lot of ancient wars, it was mean, in a lot of ancient wars, it was mean, in a lot of ancient wars, it was one battle and you're done. And the one battle and you're done. And the one battle and you're done. And the battle took the afternoon, right? Entire battle took the afternoon, right? Entire battle took the afternoon, right? Entire dynasties and the fate of kingdoms and dynasties and the fate of kingdoms and dynasties and the fate of kingdoms and everything rested on a day. So imagine everything rested on a day. So imagine everything rested on a day. So imagine what the night before that's like. I'm what the night before that's like. I'm what the night before that's like. I'm not trying, by the way, to denigrate or not trying, by the way, to denigrate or not trying, by the way, to denigrate or downplay what it's like for the British downplay what it's like for the British downplay what it's like for the British Tommy waiting for the kickoff of the Tommy waiting for the kickoff of the Tommy waiting for the kickoff of the Battle of the Psalm the next morning or Battle of the Psalm the next morning or Battle of the Psalm the next morning or anything like that. It's a very anything like that. It's a very anything like that. It's a very different sort of hellish foreshadowing different sort of hellish foreshadowing different sort of hellish foreshadowing for that guy than it is for Alexander's for that guy than it is for Alexander's for that guy than it is for Alexander's troops. But, you know, well, God forbid troops. But, you know, well, God forbid troops. But, you know, well, God forbid the Persians. Think about them. Um, the Persians. Think about them. Um, the Persians. Think about them. Um, similar but different, right? The same

similar but different, right? The same similar but different, right? The same but different. In the case of the Tommy, but different. In the case of the Tommy, but different. In the case of the Tommy, he's going to wake up. There's going to he's going to wake up. There's going to he's going to wake up. There's going to be a lot of shelling that goes on for a be a lot of shelling that goes on for a be a lot of shelling that goes on for a long time ahead of time. That'll get you long time ahead of time. That'll get you long time ahead of time. That'll get you ready. Uh then you have the hellish ready. Uh then you have the hellish ready. Uh then you have the hellish first day of the psalm, which was first day of the psalm, which was first day of the psalm, which was terrible. But the fact that you survive terrible. But the fact that you survive terrible. But the fact that you survive that doesn't mean you survive because that doesn't mean you survive because that doesn't mean you survive because then you get to try to sleep because then you get to try to sleep because then you get to try to sleep because you're going to be exhausted and the you're going to be exhausted and the you're going to be exhausted and the whole thing and do it the next day, whole thing and do it the next day, whole thing and do it the next day, right? So if you don't die the first right? So if you don't die the first right? So if you don't die the first day, you have plenty of days in the day, you have plenty of days in the day, you have plenty of days in the future to die. It's different for future to die. It's different for future to die. It's different for Alexander's troops because if they're Alexander's troops because if they're Alexander's troops because if they're going to die, it's probably going to be going to die, it's probably going to be going to die, it's probably going to be tomorrow. If you're the Persians, if tomorrow. If you're the Persians, if tomorrow. If you're the Persians, if you're going to die, it's probably going you're going to die, it's probably going you're going to die, it's probably going to be tomorrow. So the thoughts that to be tomorrow. So the thoughts that to be tomorrow. So the thoughts that must be running through one's head as must be running through one's head as must be running through one's head as you think about where you will be 24 you think about where you will be 24 you think about where you will be 24 hours from now. Well, that's what I hours from now. Well, that's what I hours from now. Well, that's what I think about. think about. think about. They say that Alexander is doing some They say that Alexander is doing some They say that Alexander is doing some significant religious sacrificing. And I significant religious sacrificing. And I significant religious sacrificing. And I bet the Persian king is too cuz after bet the Persian king is too cuz after bet the Persian king is too cuz after all what they say there's no atheists in all what they say there's no atheists in all what they say there's no atheists in foxholes. Well, in this period, very few foxholes. Well, in this period, very few foxholes. Well, in this period, very few atheists anywhere. atheists anywhere. atheists anywhere. And even if the great king didn't And even if the great king didn't And even if the great king didn't believe this stuff, and he probably believe this stuff, and he probably believe this stuff, and he probably does, uh, he's got a show to put on for does, uh, he's got a show to put on for does, uh, he's got a show to put on for his troops cuz they're going to look for his troops cuz they're going to look for his troops cuz they're going to look for all the help they could get. And the all the help they could get. And the all the help they could get. And the same is true for Alexander. And nobody same is true for Alexander. And nobody same is true for Alexander. And nobody wants, you know, even if you don't think wants, you know, even if you don't think wants, you know, even if you don't think the gods are going to help you, you sure the gods are going to help you, you sure the gods are going to help you, you sure as heck don't want them against you.

as heck don't want them against you. as heck don't want them against you. And there's a significant amount of And there's a significant amount of And there's a significant amount of activity, we're told, the night before activity, we're told, the night before activity, we're told, the night before in the early morning hours. I'm just in the early morning hours. I'm just in the early morning hours. I'm just thinking about how tired these guys are thinking about how tired these guys are thinking about how tired these guys are going to be once they get to the going to be once they get to the going to be once they get to the battlefield cuz you know the night battlefield cuz you know the night battlefield cuz you know the night before. Aryan talks about all this by before. Aryan talks about all this by before. Aryan talks about all this by the way and this has becomes one of the the way and this has becomes one of the the way and this has becomes one of the great early uh military conflicts in great early uh military conflicts in great early uh military conflicts in history where we get all kinds of history where we get all kinds of history where we get all kinds of details that are hard to come by before details that are hard to come by before details that are hard to come by before this era. That's why when we started this era. That's why when we started this era. That's why when we started this entire conversation about Alexander this entire conversation about Alexander this entire conversation about Alexander installments ago we mentioned that this installments ago we mentioned that this installments ago we mentioned that this is where military history starts to is where military history starts to is where military history starts to blossom out a little bit and we get some blossom out a little bit and we get some blossom out a little bit and we get some of the nuts and bolts stuff. I mean, of the nuts and bolts stuff. I mean, of the nuts and bolts stuff. I mean, you're going to see it in Alexander's you're going to see it in Alexander's you're going to see it in Alexander's approach to the battlefield here where approach to the battlefield here where approach to the battlefield here where you get a chance to see the march order you get a chance to see the march order you get a chance to see the march order and how he maneuvers troops to deal with and how he maneuvers troops to deal with and how he maneuvers troops to deal with difficult terrain. I mean, it's going to difficult terrain. I mean, it's going to difficult terrain. I mean, it's going to be very insightful. And part of it is be very insightful. And part of it is be very insightful. And part of it is Aryens's talking about, you know, Aryens's talking about, you know, Aryens's talking about, you know, Alexander's getting his troops together Alexander's getting his troops together Alexander's getting his troops together the night before at like 3:00 in the the night before at like 3:00 in the the night before at like 3:00 in the morning. They sort of march down into morning. They sort of march down into morning. They sort of march down into this other area. He lets them rest for a this other area. He lets them rest for a this other area. He lets them rest for a while and 40 50,000 guys rest for a while and 40 50,000 guys rest for a while and 40 50,000 guys rest for a while on some rocky outcropping. And while on some rocky outcropping. And while on some rocky outcropping. And then, you know, in the very early then, you know, in the very early then, you know, in the very early morning hours before the sun comes up, morning hours before the sun comes up, morning hours before the sun comes up, they're out there getting their act they're out there getting their act they're out there getting their act together because they've got, you know, together because they've got, you know, together because they've got, you know, three or four miles of marching to get three or four miles of marching to get three or four miles of marching to get to the battlefield and hours of to the battlefield and hours of to the battlefield and hours of deployment in front of them. I love the deployment in front of them. I love the deployment in front of them. I love the way that AB Bosworth, the great late way that AB Bosworth, the great late way that AB Bosworth, the great late great AB Bosworth, the Australian great AB Bosworth, the Australian great AB Bosworth, the Australian historian, uh he sort of runs it down, historian, uh he sort of runs it down, historian, uh he sort of runs it down, but Aryan's the one who gives us the but Aryan's the one who gives us the but Aryan's the one who gives us the broad information for this, although broad information for this, although broad information for this, although Curtis also does this where they they go Curtis also does this where they they go Curtis also does this where they they go into depth now about how Alexander is into depth now about how Alexander is into depth now about how Alexander is going to approach the battle because the going to approach the battle because the going to approach the battle because the Persians are waiting for him.

Persians are waiting for him. Persians are waiting for him. Aryan, by the way, says in order to sort Aryan, by the way, says in order to sort Aryan, by the way, says in order to sort of keep Alexander from messing with him of keep Alexander from messing with him of keep Alexander from messing with him while deployment is happening, he throws while deployment is happening, he throws while deployment is happening, he throws out 30,000 cavalry and 20,000 light out 30,000 cavalry and 20,000 light out 30,000 cavalry and 20,000 light troops. troops. troops. So, his screening force to sort of just So, his screening force to sort of just So, his screening force to sort of just mess with Alexander and just, you know, mess with Alexander and just, you know, mess with Alexander and just, you know, keep him at bay is larger than keep him at bay is larger than keep him at bay is larger than Alexander's army if we believe those Alexander's army if we believe those Alexander's army if we believe those kind of numbers. But remember, Aryan has kind of numbers. But remember, Aryan has kind of numbers. But remember, Aryan has the Persian army at multiple hundred the Persian army at multiple hundred the Persian army at multiple hundred thousands of men. So, what's 50,000 as a thousands of men. So, what's 50,000 as a thousands of men. So, what's 50,000 as a screening force? screening force? screening force? The way Alexander approaches this The way Alexander approaches this The way Alexander approaches this battlefield is he's coming up from in in battlefield is he's coming up from in in battlefield is he's coming up from in in like a narrow, if you imagine the like a narrow, if you imagine the like a narrow, if you imagine the battlefield from Alexander's point of battlefield from Alexander's point of battlefield from Alexander's point of view, remember reversed, it's a funnel view, remember reversed, it's a funnel view, remember reversed, it's a funnel shaped and he's coming from the narrow shaped and he's coming from the narrow shaped and he's coming from the narrow part of the funnel and as he advances part of the funnel and as he advances part of the funnel and as he advances it's broadening out. What he's trying to it's broadening out. What he's trying to it's broadening out. What he's trying to do is not have a flank. That's where the do is not have a flank. That's where the do is not have a flank. That's where the Persians are deadly, right? With their Persians are deadly, right? With their Persians are deadly, right? With their cavalry, if it gets around your flank, cavalry, if it gets around your flank, cavalry, if it gets around your flank, well, that's the whole point of wanting well, that's the whole point of wanting well, that's the whole point of wanting to have the battle in northern Syria, to have the battle in northern Syria, to have the battle in northern Syria, right? in those great open plains so right? in those great open plains so right? in those great open plains so that the Persians can outflank the that the Persians can outflank the that the Persians can outflank the Macedonians here. Alexander's got him in Macedonians here. Alexander's got him in Macedonians here. Alexander's got him in the Narrows, but there's still some art the Narrows, but there's still some art the Narrows, but there's still some art in making sure they don't outflank you in making sure they don't outflank you in making sure they don't outflank you here. And that's the art that Aryan and here. And that's the art that Aryan and here. And that's the art that Aryan and Curte both sort of point out because Curte both sort of point out because Curte both sort of point out because what happens is Alexander is continually what happens is Alexander is continually what happens is Alexander is continually um lengthening his line, right? taking um lengthening his line, right? taking um lengthening his line, right? taking from depth from a column depth and as from depth from a column depth and as from depth from a column depth and as the land allows it uh expanding to the the land allows it uh expanding to the the land allows it uh expanding to the side so that he covers the entire side so that he covers the entire side so that he covers the entire distance from the sea on one side to the distance from the sea on one side to the distance from the sea on one side to the mountains on the other and as the land mountains on the other and as the land mountains on the other and as the land gets wider so does his battle line and

gets wider so does his battle line and gets wider so does his battle line and he allows there to be no flank and those he allows there to be no flank and those he allows there to be no flank and those are his orders are his orders are his orders and Bosworth extrapolating the courteous and Bosworth extrapolating the courteous and Bosworth extrapolating the courteous and Aryan information in conquest and and Aryan information in conquest and and Aryan information in conquest and empire writes quote empire writes quote empire writes quote At dawn, the Macedonian army moved down At dawn, the Macedonian army moved down At dawn, the Macedonian army moved down to the plane, first infantry and then to the plane, first infantry and then to the plane, first infantry and then cavalry. The process of filtering cavalry. The process of filtering cavalry. The process of filtering through the narrows was of necessity through the narrows was of necessity through the narrows was of necessity slow and took up most of the morning. As slow and took up most of the morning. As slow and took up most of the morning. As the plane widened, the infantry were the plane widened, the infantry were the plane widened, the infantry were able to deploy itself into battle able to deploy itself into battle able to deploy itself into battle formation. At first 32 ranks deep, then formation. At first 32 ranks deep, then formation. At first 32 ranks deep, then 16, finally eight. It was a gradual 16, finally eight. It was a gradual 16, finally eight. It was a gradual process. files would move up to the process. files would move up to the process. files would move up to the front as spaces opened up for them and front as spaces opened up for them and front as spaces opened up for them and the failanks would gradually expand in the failanks would gradually expand in the failanks would gradually expand in length and contract in depth. length and contract in depth. length and contract in depth. Consequently, he writes, Alexander had a Consequently, he writes, Alexander had a Consequently, he writes, Alexander had a battle line capable of facing and battle line capable of facing and battle line capable of facing and repelling any cavalry sort during his repelling any cavalry sort during his repelling any cavalry sort during his advance to the battle. There were, he advance to the battle. There were, he advance to the battle. There were, he writes, inevitable delays as the army writes, inevitable delays as the army writes, inevitable delays as the army crossed the ravines and the streams that crossed the ravines and the streams that crossed the ravines and the streams that intersected the plane. But as the intersected the plane. But as the intersected the plane. But as the afternoon began, the Macedonian line afternoon began, the Macedonian line afternoon began, the Macedonian line closed on the Persians." End quote.

closed on the Persians." End quote. closed on the Persians." End quote. Aryan and Curte talk about the many Aryan and Curte talk about the many Aryan and Curte talk about the many halts that the uh army makes in order to halts that the uh army makes in order to halts that the uh army makes in order to sort of dress its lines and let sort of dress its lines and let sort of dress its lines and let everybody catch up. Uh Curia says that everybody catch up. Uh Curia says that everybody catch up. Uh Curia says that Alexander is stopping and and making Alexander is stopping and and making Alexander is stopping and and making everybody slow down. He's riding in everybody slow down. He's riding in everybody slow down. He's riding in front of the line, slowing everybody front of the line, slowing everybody front of the line, slowing everybody down so that they maintain the integrity down so that they maintain the integrity down so that they maintain the integrity of the formation rather than allow any of the formation rather than allow any of the formation rather than allow any gaps to develop because they're worried gaps to develop because they're worried gaps to develop because they're worried about the Persian cavalry, right? So about the Persian cavalry, right? So about the Persian cavalry, right? So just dress your lines and the Persians just dress your lines and the Persians just dress your lines and the Persians aren't moving. You know, they're sitting aren't moving. You know, they're sitting aren't moving. You know, they're sitting there waiting on the opposite side of there waiting on the opposite side of there waiting on the opposite side of the river, so there's no pressing need the river, so there's no pressing need the river, so there's no pressing need to really hurry up. But this takes to really hurry up. But this takes to really hurry up. But this takes hours. It's the part we forget. Same hours. It's the part we forget. Same hours. It's the part we forget. Same thing like if you look at your thing like if you look at your thing like if you look at your Napoleonic battles, right? Something Napoleonic battles, right? Something Napoleonic battles, right? Something like water. These take forever to get like water. These take forever to get like water. These take forever to get everybody where they're supposed to be. everybody where they're supposed to be. everybody where they're supposed to be. And then there's the speeches. And then there's the speeches. And then there's the speeches. And I'm combining it because the Aryan And I'm combining it because the Aryan And I'm combining it because the Aryan says that there are speeches the night says that there are speeches the night says that there are speeches the night before, then there are speeches before before, then there are speeches before before, then there are speeches before these speeches are hard to figure out these speeches are hard to figure out these speeches are hard to figure out because they're sort of the stocking because they're sort of the stocking because they're sort of the stocking trade of all these ancient authors. And trade of all these ancient authors. And trade of all these ancient authors. And before we condemn them too much for before we condemn them too much for before we condemn them too much for potentially likely making up all this, potentially likely making up all this, potentially likely making up all this, you know, speaking type stuff, uh, we you know, speaking type stuff, uh, we you know, speaking type stuff, uh, we should point out two things. Thing should point out two things. Thing should point out two things. Thing number one is they weren't necessarily number one is they weren't necessarily number one is they weren't necessarily asserting that this was exactly what was asserting that this was exactly what was asserting that this was exactly what was said, right? They take a little dramatic said, right? They take a little dramatic said, right? They take a little dramatic license. Point number two, we do the license. Point number two, we do the license. Point number two, we do the same thing. Heck, you think any of the same thing. Heck, you think any of the same thing. Heck, you think any of the dialogue in any of the Alexander the dialogue in any of the Alexander the dialogue in any of the Alexander the Great movies, I mean, you see what I'm Great movies, I mean, you see what I'm Great movies, I mean, you see what I'm saying? And if the dialogue from those saying? And if the dialogue from those saying? And if the dialogue from those movies is true, they're taking it from movies is true, they're taking it from movies is true, they're taking it from here. So, here. So, here. So, take all of it with a grain of salt. But

take all of it with a grain of salt. But take all of it with a grain of salt. But what's more useful perhaps is the what's more useful perhaps is the what's more useful perhaps is the general gist of what was said. And if general gist of what was said. And if general gist of what was said. And if you're asking, by the way, where any of you're asking, by the way, where any of you're asking, by the way, where any of this could come from, like why would we this could come from, like why would we this could come from, like why would we assume that any of it might be true? One assume that any of it might be true? One assume that any of it might be true? One of the famous sources for some of this of the famous sources for some of this of the famous sources for some of this stuff is a guy named Klearus. And he stuff is a guy named Klearus. And he stuff is a guy named Klearus. And he went around after the Alexander Wars went around after the Alexander Wars went around after the Alexander Wars were all over and interviewed veterans. were all over and interviewed veterans. were all over and interviewed veterans. Got stories, war stories, if you will. Got stories, war stories, if you will. Got stories, war stories, if you will. But depending on how high up some of But depending on how high up some of But depending on how high up some of these people were uh and how much they these people were uh and how much they these people were uh and how much they remembered, although let's be honest, remembered, although let's be honest, remembered, although let's be honest, some of this stuff is going to be the some of this stuff is going to be the some of this stuff is going to be the greatest thing in their lives. Um he greatest thing in their lives. Um he greatest thing in their lives. Um he might have a little bit of the gist for might have a little bit of the gist for might have a little bit of the gist for what this stuff was. what this stuff was. what this stuff was. But as we said, some of this stuff is But as we said, some of this stuff is But as we said, some of this stuff is typical stock stuff in the ancient typical stock stuff in the ancient typical stock stuff in the ancient literary world. Uh some of it is literary world. Uh some of it is literary world. Uh some of it is material that Aryan wants to transmit to material that Aryan wants to transmit to material that Aryan wants to transmit to the reader and this is a good way to do the reader and this is a good way to do the reader and this is a good way to do it. Again, we still use that in movies it. Again, we still use that in movies it. Again, we still use that in movies and film and entertainment today, don't and film and entertainment today, don't and film and entertainment today, don't we? It's a vehicle. It moves the story we? It's a vehicle. It moves the story we? It's a vehicle. It moves the story along, right? But what is a vehicle for along, right? But what is a vehicle for along, right? But what is a vehicle for the writer here? Because of the writer's the writer here? Because of the writer's the writer here? Because of the writer's importance, Aryan is so huge in the importance, Aryan is so huge in the importance, Aryan is so huge in the Alexander story that this has become Alexander story that this has become Alexander story that this has become virtual dialogue for the king of virtual dialogue for the king of virtual dialogue for the king of Macedonia, right? Whether or not he said Macedonia, right? Whether or not he said Macedonia, right? Whether or not he said it, it's become part of the known it, it's become part of the known it, it's become part of the known legend of this guy. And they include it legend of this guy. And they include it legend of this guy. And they include it in the movies. I mean, I can remember in the movies. I mean, I can remember in the movies. I mean, I can remember Richard Burton uttering some of the same Richard Burton uttering some of the same Richard Burton uttering some of the same lines from Aryan I'm about to utter to lines from Aryan I'm about to utter to lines from Aryan I'm about to utter to you. It's fabulous. And so I'm going to

you. It's fabulous. And so I'm going to you. It's fabulous. And so I'm going to quote it at length. From the Aubrey quote it at length. From the Aubrey quote it at length. From the Aubrey Delin Corps translation, for example, he Delin Corps translation, for example, he Delin Corps translation, for example, he says, quote, Alexander now sent for his says, quote, Alexander now sent for his says, quote, Alexander now sent for his infantry and cavalry commanders and all infantry and cavalry commanders and all infantry and cavalry commanders and all officers in charge of allied troops and officers in charge of allied troops and officers in charge of allied troops and appealed to them for confidence and appealed to them for confidence and appealed to them for confidence and courage in the coming fight. Remember he courage in the coming fight. Remember he courage in the coming fight. Remember he said that already danger has often said that already danger has often said that already danger has often threatened you and you have looked it threatened you and you have looked it threatened you and you have looked it triumphantly in the face. This time the triumphantly in the face. This time the triumphantly in the face. This time the struggle will be between a victorious struggle will be between a victorious struggle will be between a victorious army and an enemy already once army and an enemy already once army and an enemy already once vanquished. God himself or gods moreover vanquished. God himself or gods moreover vanquished. God himself or gods moreover by suggesting to Das to leave the open by suggesting to Das to leave the open by suggesting to Das to leave the open ground and cram his great army into a ground and cram his great army into a ground and cram his great army into a confined space has taken charge of confined space has taken charge of confined space has taken charge of operations in our behalf. Let me just operations in our behalf. Let me just operations in our behalf. Let me just stop here. Is this the ancient stop here. Is this the ancient stop here. Is this the ancient Macedonian version of godm? Macedonian version of godm? Macedonian version of godm? Aryan continues in Alexander's voice. We Aryan continues in Alexander's voice. We Aryan continues in Alexander's voice. We ourselves shall have room enough to ourselves shall have room enough to ourselves shall have room enough to deploy our infantry while they no match deploy our infantry while they no match deploy our infantry while they no match for us either in bodily strength or for us either in bodily strength or for us either in bodily strength or resolution will find their superiority resolution will find their superiority resolution will find their superiority in numbers of no avail. Our enemies are in numbers of no avail. Our enemies are in numbers of no avail. Our enemies are mess and Persians, men who for centuries mess and Persians, men who for centuries mess and Persians, men who for centuries have lived soft and luxurious lives. We have lived soft and luxurious lives. We have lived soft and luxurious lives. We of Macedonia for generations past have of Macedonia for generations past have of Macedonia for generations past have been trained in the hard school of been trained in the hard school of been trained in the hard school of danger and war. Above all, we are free danger and war. Above all, we are free danger and war. Above all, we are free men, and they are slaves. There are men, and they are slaves. There are men, and they are slaves. There are Greek troops, to be sure, in Persian Greek troops, to be sure, in Persian Greek troops, to be sure, in Persian service, but how different is their service, but how different is their service, but how different is their cause from ours. They will be fighting

cause from ours. They will be fighting cause from ours. They will be fighting for pay, and not much of it at that. And for pay, and not much of it at that. And for pay, and not much of it at that. And we, on the contrary, shall fight for we, on the contrary, shall fight for we, on the contrary, shall fight for Greece, and our hearts will be in it. As Greece, and our hearts will be in it. As Greece, and our hearts will be in it. As for our foreign troops, Thrians, for our foreign troops, Thrians, for our foreign troops, Thrians, Peyonians, Yrians, Iranians, they are Peyonians, Yrians, Iranians, they are Peyonians, Yrians, Iranians, they are the best and stoutest soldiers in the best and stoutest soldiers in the best and stoutest soldiers in Europe. And they will find as their Europe. And they will find as their Europe. And they will find as their opponents the slackest and softest of opponents the slackest and softest of opponents the slackest and softest of the tribes of Asia. And what finally of the tribes of Asia. And what finally of the tribes of Asia. And what finally of the two men in supreme command? You have the two men in supreme command? You have the two men in supreme command? You have Alexander. They Das. Alexander. They Das. Alexander. They Das. End quote. End quote. End quote. How can you not love that? Whether or How can you not love that? Whether or How can you not love that? Whether or not Alexander said that he should have not Alexander said that he should have not Alexander said that he should have then the next stage and again worth then the next stage and again worth then the next stage and again worth quoting um in full talks about you first quoting um in full talks about you first quoting um in full talks about you first you appeal to them on that level right you appeal to them on that level right you appeal to them on that level right where they're fighting for freedom you where they're fighting for freedom you where they're fighting for freedom you know the the the Greeks and the stoutest know the the the Greeks and the stoutest know the the the Greeks and the stoutest men and all that kind of stuff and of men and all that kind of stuff and of men and all that kind of stuff and of course then what would a good course then what would a good course then what would a good salesperson do after that you tell them salesperson do after that you tell them salesperson do after that you tell them what they're going to get after they what they're going to get after they what they're going to get after they beat these weak people in a fight that beat these weak people in a fight that beat these weak people in a fight that won't be worth anything because it's you won't be worth anything because it's you won't be worth anything because it's you against them and me against him and from against them and me against him and from against them and me against him and from my Martin Hammond translation of Aryan.

my Martin Hammond translation of Aryan. my Martin Hammond translation of Aryan. The next part of the great speech tells The next part of the great speech tells The next part of the great speech tells everybody what's in it for them. everybody what's in it for them. everybody what's in it for them. Quote, after listing all these factors Quote, after listing all these factors Quote, after listing all these factors which made for Macedonian superiority in which made for Macedonian superiority in which made for Macedonian superiority in the coming contest, Alexander went on to the coming contest, Alexander went on to the coming contest, Alexander went on to emphasize the great value of the prizes emphasize the great value of the prizes emphasize the great value of the prizes which they stood to win. which they stood to win. which they stood to win. The victory this time would not be over The victory this time would not be over The victory this time would not be over Das's sat traps, right, as corporate Das's sat traps, right, as corporate Das's sat traps, right, as corporate vice presidents, not over the cavalry vice presidents, not over the cavalry vice presidents, not over the cavalry raged at the Granicus or the 20,000 raged at the Granicus or the 20,000 raged at the Granicus or the 20,000 foreign mercenaries, but over all that foreign mercenaries, but over all that foreign mercenaries, but over all that was of any worth among the Persians and was of any worth among the Persians and was of any worth among the Persians and the Mes and all the other nations in the Mes and all the other nations in the Mes and all the other nations in Asia subject to the Persians and the Mes Asia subject to the Persians and the Mes Asia subject to the Persians and the Mes and over the great king himself who was and over the great king himself who was and over the great king himself who was there in person. Nothing would remain there in person. Nothing would remain there in person. Nothing would remain for them to do after this contest except for them to do after this contest except for them to do after this contest except to assume rule of all of Asia and put an to assume rule of all of Asia and put an to assume rule of all of Asia and put an end to all their long hardship. And end to all their long hardship. And end to all their long hardship. And there was more. Let me just stop and there was more. Let me just stop and there was more. Let me just stop and say, isn't that what they always say in say, isn't that what they always say in say, isn't that what they always say in those infomercials? And there was more. those infomercials? And there was more. those infomercials? And there was more. He reminded them of what they'd already He reminded them of what they'd already He reminded them of what they'd already achieved for the common cause so achieved for the common cause so achieved for the common cause so brilliantly, citing individual acts of brilliantly, citing individual acts of brilliantly, citing individual acts of conspicuously noble bravery and naming conspicuously noble bravery and naming conspicuously noble bravery and naming the man as well as describing the deed.

the man as well as describing the deed. the man as well as describing the deed. and in the most tactful way. He touched and in the most tactful way. He touched and in the most tactful way. He touched on his own record of dangers faced in on his own record of dangers faced in on his own record of dangers faced in their battles. End quote. their battles. End quote. their battles. End quote. Now, some of this is the sort of thing Now, some of this is the sort of thing Now, some of this is the sort of thing any general is going to do. And Aryan any general is going to do. And Aryan any general is going to do. And Aryan even says that later on where he'll say even says that later on where he'll say even says that later on where he'll say and and several more such things as and and several more such things as and and several more such things as generals do. So I mean everybody generals do. So I mean everybody generals do. So I mean everybody understands that speeches to the at understands that speeches to the at understands that speeches to the at least people down to the officer level least people down to the officer level least people down to the officer level is normal and expected is normal and expected is normal and expected but this is also how the great ones fuse but this is also how the great ones fuse but this is also how the great ones fuse their sort of personality and charisma their sort of personality and charisma their sort of personality and charisma into the loyalty of their army. I mean into the loyalty of their army. I mean into the loyalty of their army. I mean when you talk about Napoleon coming back when you talk about Napoleon coming back when you talk about Napoleon coming back you know from exile and the troops that you know from exile and the troops that you know from exile and the troops that are sent there to kill him throwing down are sent there to kill him throwing down are sent there to kill him throwing down their arms you know and raising their their arms you know and raising their their arms you know and raising their hands and saying viva emperor. This is hands and saying viva emperor. This is hands and saying viva emperor. This is something that Napoleon has done, not something that Napoleon has done, not something that Napoleon has done, not just with his actual physical people just with his actual physical people just with his actual physical people that he knew and fought with, but with that he knew and fought with, but with that he knew and fought with, but with the institution itself. And that's what the institution itself. And that's what the institution itself. And that's what all of this is a data point towards all of this is a data point towards all of this is a data point towards doing. And you add victory after victory doing. And you add victory after victory doing. And you add victory after victory to that. Well, my goodness, it's not to that. Well, my goodness, it's not to that. Well, my goodness, it's not just a guy who talks a big game. It's a just a guy who talks a big game. It's a just a guy who talks a big game. It's a guy who's promising things and who's guy who's promising things and who's guy who's promising things and who's delivered every other time he's ever delivered every other time he's ever delivered every other time he's ever done that previously, right? His track done that previously, right? His track done that previously, right? His track record is perfect.

record is perfect. record is perfect. The last part of his speech has The last part of his speech has The last part of his speech has Alexander comparing his army to Alexander comparing his army to Alexander comparing his army to Zenapon's famous army of a previous era. Zenapon's famous army of a previous era. Zenapon's famous army of a previous era. If you've ever read Zenapon's anabis, If you've ever read Zenapon's anabis, If you've ever read Zenapon's anabis, the 10,000 Greeks who were in Persian the 10,000 Greeks who were in Persian the 10,000 Greeks who were in Persian service, fought in a Persian civil war service, fought in a Persian civil war service, fought in a Persian civil war and made it all the way back safely with and made it all the way back safely with and made it all the way back safely with the Persians at their heels the whole the Persians at their heels the whole the Persians at their heels the whole way. It's very famous. All these Greeks way. It's very famous. All these Greeks way. It's very famous. All these Greeks and Macedonians would have known it and Macedonians would have known it and Macedonians would have known it well. And he points out that if Zenapon well. And he points out that if Zenapon well. And he points out that if Zenapon could get out of Persia with the could get out of Persia with the could get out of Persia with the Persians nipping at his heels, you know, Persians nipping at his heels, you know, Persians nipping at his heels, you know, for an extended period of time with for an extended period of time with for an extended period of time with without all of the combined arms that without all of the combined arms that without all of the combined arms that the Macedonians have with fewer people, the Macedonians have with fewer people, the Macedonians have with fewer people, etc., etc., why shouldn't they do far etc., etc., why shouldn't they do far etc., etc., why shouldn't they do far better? It's a great argument. better? It's a great argument. better? It's a great argument. He then in a more cover all the basis He then in a more cover all the basis He then in a more cover all the basis sort of sense says that Alexander then sort of sense says that Alexander then sort of sense says that Alexander then added all the usual encouragement which added all the usual encouragement which added all the usual encouragement which a brave commander gives to brave troops a brave commander gives to brave troops a brave commander gives to brave troops at a time like that. right to firm their at a time like that. right to firm their at a time like that. right to firm their resolve. So, in other words, Alexander resolve. So, in other words, Alexander resolve. So, in other words, Alexander is giving the usual speeches, but he's is giving the usual speeches, but he's is giving the usual speeches, but he's got some specifics he throws in there. I got some specifics he throws in there. I got some specifics he throws in there. I love that in the courteous version of love that in the courteous version of love that in the courteous version of this speech, which happens right before this speech, which happens right before this speech, which happens right before the clash of arms, right? That's so the clash of arms, right? That's so the clash of arms, right? That's so there's a difference in the timing of there's a difference in the timing of there's a difference in the timing of some of this stuff. Alexander actually some of this stuff. Alexander actually some of this stuff. Alexander actually turns to like the Yrians and the Thrians turns to like the Yrians and the Thrians turns to like the Yrians and the Thrians and and Curteus showing his own biases and and Curteus showing his own biases and and Curteus showing his own biases says that since those people make a says that since those people make a says that since those people make a living by looting, Alexander tells them living by looting, Alexander tells them living by looting, Alexander tells them to go and look at all the, you know, to go and look at all the, you know, to go and look at all the, you know, gold and purple on the other side, gold and purple on the other side, gold and purple on the other side, right? Look at all the stuff you can right? Look at all the stuff you can right? Look at all the stuff you can loot over there. So, everybody's got loot over there. So, everybody's got loot over there. So, everybody's got their motivations sort of tailored to

their motivations sort of tailored to their motivations sort of tailored to their proclivities, right? set up the their proclivities, right? set up the their proclivities, right? set up the incentives differently for different incentives differently for different incentives differently for different folk. folk. folk. Now, as Alexander approaches, and he's Now, as Alexander approaches, and he's Now, as Alexander approaches, and he's not going to get right up to the not going to get right up to the not going to get right up to the Persians, you know, on the just the Persians, you know, on the just the Persians, you know, on the just the opposite side of the river because that opposite side of the river because that opposite side of the river because that is too close. That is within missile is too close. That is within missile is too close. That is within missile range. And the Persians are a missile range. And the Persians are a missile range. And the Persians are a missile army. That's what we used to say in army. That's what we used to say in army. That's what we used to say in wargaming that the Persians are a wargaming that the Persians are a wargaming that the Persians are a missile army. If you like, you know, bow missile army. If you like, you know, bow missile army. If you like, you know, bow fire and javelin, the Persians are your fire and javelin, the Persians are your fire and javelin, the Persians are your army, not necessarily your, you know, army, not necessarily your, you know, army, not necessarily your, you know, hand-tohand army, but you don't want to hand-tohand army, but you don't want to hand-tohand army, but you don't want to get too close to them. And Alexander get too close to them. And Alexander get too close to them. And Alexander doesn't. The Persians sort of sit there doesn't. The Persians sort of sit there doesn't. The Persians sort of sit there too because when you have a very large too because when you have a very large too because when you have a very large army in a very constricted space and you army in a very constricted space and you army in a very constricted space and you have them laid out just the way you want have them laid out just the way you want have them laid out just the way you want because didn't we say Alexander's taking because didn't we say Alexander's taking because didn't we say Alexander's taking hours to get to him and dress his ranks hours to get to him and dress his ranks hours to get to him and dress his ranks and do all that. Well, the Persians have and do all that. Well, the Persians have and do all that. Well, the Persians have already done that. They're in place. Why already done that. They're in place. Why already done that. They're in place. Why move? They're looking um Adrien move? They're looking um Adrien move? They're looking um Adrien Goldsworth. He says they want to win on Goldsworth. He says they want to win on Goldsworth. He says they want to win on both sides. They certainly want to win both sides. They certainly want to win both sides. They certainly want to win on one side and that's where they've on one side and that's where they've on one side and that's where they've placed a ton of cavalry. you know, their placed a ton of cavalry. you know, their placed a ton of cavalry. you know, their best troops sort of uh maybe not like best troops sort of uh maybe not like best troops sort of uh maybe not like the guard troops around the king, but the guard troops around the king, but the guard troops around the king, but their best arm. And it's over on the their best arm. And it's over on the their best arm. And it's over on the very seaside very seaside very seaside side of things because the once the side of things because the once the side of things because the once the river sort of gets near the ocean in river sort of gets near the ocean in river sort of gets near the ocean in this battlefield, it it branches out and this battlefield, it it branches out and this battlefield, it it branches out and sort of forms a little beach and you can sort of forms a little beach and you can sort of forms a little beach and you can have cavalry operate in that kind of have cavalry operate in that kind of have cavalry operate in that kind of terrain. So that's where the Persians terrain. So that's where the Persians terrain. So that's where the Persians put all their cavalry. As Alexander put all their cavalry. As Alexander put all their cavalry. As Alexander approaches, he will have been approaches, he will have been approaches, he will have been outflanking himself. And that's because outflanking himself. And that's because outflanking himself. And that's because as he gets nearer to the river, the as he gets nearer to the river, the as he gets nearer to the river, the hills on his right begin to uh become

hills on his right begin to uh become hills on his right begin to uh become closer and the foothills sort of closer and the foothills sort of closer and the foothills sort of encroach and there are troops all over encroach and there are troops all over encroach and there are troops all over those hills and the foothills, you know, those hills and the foothills, you know, those hills and the foothills, you know, range right up to the mountains and range right up to the mountains and range right up to the mountains and they're crammed with Persians, light they're crammed with Persians, light they're crammed with Persians, light troops. troops. troops. Historians don't know whether these are Historians don't know whether these are Historians don't know whether these are uh just archers and javeliners and uh uh just archers and javeliners and uh uh just archers and javeliners and uh slingers or whether there are more slingers or whether there are more slingers or whether there are more formed troops there. Also, it's not formed troops there. Also, it's not formed troops there. Also, it's not going to be like hoplights and close going to be like hoplights and close going to be like hoplights and close order felangites or anything. They can't order felangites or anything. They can't order felangites or anything. They can't operate in that kind of terrain, but it operate in that kind of terrain, but it operate in that kind of terrain, but it could be tribesmen are the same kinds of could be tribesmen are the same kinds of could be tribesmen are the same kinds of things Alexander uses his girka type of things Alexander uses his girka type of things Alexander uses his girka type of grainians for, but lots of them. grainians for, but lots of them. grainians for, but lots of them. You believe Ary and there's like 20,000 You believe Ary and there's like 20,000 You believe Ary and there's like 20,000 of them up in those foothills. That's a of them up in those foothills. That's a of them up in those foothills. That's a modern division. modern division. modern division. I'm not going to think that 20,000 of I'm not going to think that 20,000 of I'm not going to think that 20,000 of them are there, but since Aryan has the them are there, but since Aryan has the them are there, but since Aryan has the entire army at like 600,000, 20,000's a entire army at like 600,000, 20,000's a entire army at like 600,000, 20,000's a minuscule, tiny detachment. minuscule, tiny detachment. minuscule, tiny detachment. By the way, I should point out that By the way, I should point out that By the way, I should point out that according to Aryan, the 600,000 people according to Aryan, the 600,000 people according to Aryan, the 600,000 people are all there. They're just in depth.

are all there. They're just in depth. are all there. They're just in depth. So, it's like a giant army of orcs that So, it's like a giant army of orcs that So, it's like a giant army of orcs that are behind the front lines. So when we are behind the front lines. So when we are behind the front lines. So when we talk about the entire Persian deployment talk about the entire Persian deployment talk about the entire Persian deployment here, all we're talking about is the here, all we're talking about is the here, all we're talking about is the little crust on top, the layer, and that little crust on top, the layer, and that little crust on top, the layer, and that as far back, if you could drone this as far back, if you could drone this as far back, if you could drone this thing and look from above, as far as the thing and look from above, as far as the thing and look from above, as far as the eye can see, it's just orcs off into the eye can see, it's just orcs off into the eye can see, it's just orcs off into the horizon, right? The defense in depth, if horizon, right? The defense in depth, if horizon, right? The defense in depth, if you will. you will. you will. But all these light troops up in the But all these light troops up in the But all these light troops up in the foothills on Alexander's right is going foothills on Alexander's right is going foothills on Alexander's right is going to cause problems. The ancient authors to cause problems. The ancient authors to cause problems. The ancient authors say if you look at the Persian say if you look at the Persian say if you look at the Persian deployment, it resembles, well, they use deployment, it resembles, well, they use deployment, it resembles, well, they use a letter of their own, but for us, it a letter of their own, but for us, it a letter of their own, but for us, it would be like an upside down L. And the would be like an upside down L. And the would be like an upside down L. And the Persian front line is the is the stalk Persian front line is the is the stalk Persian front line is the is the stalk of the L. And then there's a right hand of the L. And then there's a right hand of the L. And then there's a right hand turn and that's where the light troops turn and that's where the light troops turn and that's where the light troops all are. They're on Alexander's side of all are. They're on Alexander's side of all are. They're on Alexander's side of the river. They're on his right. There's the river. They're on his right. There's the river. They're on his right. There's a minority opinion though that the river a minority opinion though that the river a minority opinion though that the river itself flows up into the mountains and itself flows up into the mountains and itself flows up into the mountains and that the Persian deployment isn't uh the that the Persian deployment isn't uh the that the Persian deployment isn't uh the light troops pushing forward but is light troops pushing forward but is light troops pushing forward but is instead just the natural extension of instead just the natural extension of instead just the natural extension of the Persian line, you know, up into the the Persian line, you know, up into the the Persian line, you know, up into the foothills.

foothills. foothills. Either way, what do you do about that? Either way, what do you do about that? Either way, what do you do about that? And as he moves forward, he is And as he moves forward, he is And as he moves forward, he is outflanking himself more and more. So, outflanking himself more and more. So, outflanking himself more and more. So, his deployment is going to reflect the his deployment is going to reflect the his deployment is going to reflect the fact he has to deal with that threat. fact he has to deal with that threat. fact he has to deal with that threat. And as he approaches the river, I was And as he approaches the river, I was And as he approaches the river, I was reading uh several different accounts as reading uh several different accounts as reading uh several different accounts as to how far away he would have wanted to to how far away he would have wanted to to how far away he would have wanted to sort of halt. sort of halt. sort of halt. The Persians were just sitting there The Persians were just sitting there The Persians were just sitting there watching all this. And Adrian, historian watching all this. And Adrian, historian watching all this. And Adrian, historian Adrien Goldsworthy had an interesting Adrien Goldsworthy had an interesting Adrien Goldsworthy had an interesting point uh which reminds us of exactly point uh which reminds us of exactly point uh which reminds us of exactly what happened with Alexander way back what happened with Alexander way back what happened with Alexander way back when he was facing the Yrians and he was when he was facing the Yrians and he was when he was facing the Yrians and he was able to scare the crap out of him just able to scare the crap out of him just able to scare the crap out of him just by doing drill in front of them. Adrien by doing drill in front of them. Adrien by doing drill in front of them. Adrien Goldworthy says that the order and the Goldworthy says that the order and the Goldworthy says that the order and the precision of Alexander's slow advance precision of Alexander's slow advance precision of Alexander's slow advance which they would have been able to watch which they would have been able to watch which they would have been able to watch for hours was in itself he says eerie for hours was in itself he says eerie for hours was in itself he says eerie and intimidating. and intimidating. and intimidating. So think about the psychology now of So think about the psychology now of So think about the psychology now of this warfare here. You have hours to this warfare here. You have hours to this warfare here. You have hours to think about it. You know, you're the think about it. You know, you're the think about it. You know, you're the night before and you're wondering where night before and you're wondering where night before and you're wondering where you're going to be in 24 hours. And then you're going to be in 24 hours. And then you're going to be in 24 hours. And then you get there in the morning and you're you get there in the morning and you're you get there in the morning and you're anticipating and you're anticipating and anticipating and you're anticipating and anticipating and you're anticipating and then the first thing you would have seen then the first thing you would have seen then the first thing you would have seen is clouds of dust. Then you would have is clouds of dust. Then you would have is clouds of dust. Then you would have seen and Gworthy said this and I didn't seen and Gworthy said this and I didn't seen and Gworthy said this and I didn't think about it but it's a perfect movie think about it but it's a perfect movie think about it but it's a perfect movie scene too. Then you would have seen the scene too. Then you would have seen the scene too. Then you would have seen the tips of the pikes. Remember 17, 18, 19t tips of the pikes. Remember 17, 18, 19t tips of the pikes. Remember 17, 18, 19t tall. And when they marched they were tall. And when they marched they were tall. And when they marched they were holding the pike straight up. So the holding the pike straight up. So the holding the pike straight up. So the first thing you would have seen is these first thing you would have seen is these first thing you would have seen is these this like forest of pikes appearing this like forest of pikes appearing this like forest of pikes appearing getting longer and longer as the troops getting longer and longer as the troops getting longer and longer as the troops get closer. And Goldsworthy was saying get closer. And Goldsworthy was saying get closer. And Goldsworthy was saying with the nature of the land there, you with the nature of the land there, you with the nature of the land there, you know, with its dips and dead zones and know, with its dips and dead zones and know, with its dips and dead zones and and sorts of things, the troops that and sorts of things, the troops that and sorts of things, the troops that you're watching will disappear for a

you're watching will disappear for a you're watching will disappear for a while and then all of a sudden they come while and then all of a sudden they come while and then all of a sudden they come over the rise. I mean, the psychological over the rise. I mean, the psychological over the rise. I mean, the psychological building of fear would be fascinating. building of fear would be fascinating. building of fear would be fascinating. And at some point in the march, both of And at some point in the march, both of And at some point in the march, both of these armies are now going to be, you these armies are now going to be, you these armies are now going to be, you know, formed or forming and completely know, formed or forming and completely know, formed or forming and completely visible to one another. visible to one another. visible to one another. This was the same thing that we This was the same thing that we This was the same thing that we mentioned during the siege earlier that mentioned during the siege earlier that mentioned during the siege earlier that this is a strange aspect of preodern this is a strange aspect of preodern this is a strange aspect of preodern warfare where the killing distance is so warfare where the killing distance is so warfare where the killing distance is so short that you can watch in relative short that you can watch in relative short that you can watch in relative safety from pretty close by. In this safety from pretty close by. In this safety from pretty close by. In this case, these armies could be a few case, these armies could be a few case, these armies could be a few football fields apart from one another. football fields apart from one another. football fields apart from one another. But remember the scene. This is either But remember the scene. This is either But remember the scene. This is either the first or second largest battle in the first or second largest battle in the first or second largest battle in the Greek world in air quotes uh that's the Greek world in air quotes uh that's the Greek world in air quotes uh that's ever happened up to this point. It's ever happened up to this point. It's ever happened up to this point. It's either this one or the battle of Platea either this one or the battle of Platea either this one or the battle of Platea 150 years previously where the Persian 150 years previously where the Persian 150 years previously where the Persian king invaded Greece. Take your choice. I king invaded Greece. Take your choice. I king invaded Greece. Take your choice. I mean, when the two armies can actually mean, when the two armies can actually mean, when the two armies can actually visibly look at each other, and visibly look at each other, and visibly look at each other, and remember, whatever size they are, this remember, whatever size they are, this remember, whatever size they are, this confined space is going to crowd them confined space is going to crowd them confined space is going to crowd them together more. So, it's going to look together more. So, it's going to look together more. So, it's going to look incredibly dense.

incredibly dense. incredibly dense. We've harped endlessly and maybe even We've harped endlessly and maybe even We've harped endlessly and maybe even too long, on the physical and too long, on the physical and too long, on the physical and involuntary things human beings involuntary things human beings involuntary things human beings sometimes do in times of extreme fright. sometimes do in times of extreme fright. sometimes do in times of extreme fright. And the ancient Greek playwrights would And the ancient Greek playwrights would And the ancient Greek playwrights would allude to it sometimes, right? the allude to it sometimes, right? the allude to it sometimes, right? the chattering of the teeth that's audible. chattering of the teeth that's audible. chattering of the teeth that's audible. The losing control of one's bowels. The losing control of one's bowels. The losing control of one's bowels. And the funny thing about it is you're And the funny thing about it is you're And the funny thing about it is you're going to have people on this battlefield going to have people on this battlefield going to have people on this battlefield that aren't really afraid at all. that aren't really afraid at all. that aren't really afraid at all. Fearless people. Pinio, for example, and Fearless people. Pinio, for example, and Fearless people. Pinio, for example, and Alexander, they they're they're not Alexander, they they're they're not Alexander, they they're they're not worried. But amongst this vast crowd of worried. But amongst this vast crowd of worried. But amongst this vast crowd of people on both sides are are the less people on both sides are are the less people on both sides are are the less sure, the more frightened, the ones who sure, the more frightened, the ones who sure, the more frightened, the ones who are experiencing the moment that someone are experiencing the moment that someone are experiencing the moment that someone in the First World War who's waiting for in the First World War who's waiting for in the First World War who's waiting for the whistle to be blown so that they go the whistle to be blown so that they go the whistle to be blown so that they go over the top of the trench into the over the top of the trench into the over the top of the trench into the storm of steel. I mean, that's the storm of steel. I mean, that's the storm of steel. I mean, that's the feeling that person has. feeling that person has. feeling that person has. And so there's going to be this moment And so there's going to be this moment And so there's going to be this moment where you see the enemy in front of you. where you see the enemy in front of you. where you see the enemy in front of you. And what's more, you see, if you're And what's more, you see, if you're And what's more, you see, if you're Alexander, your counterpart, the head of Alexander, your counterpart, the head of Alexander, your counterpart, the head of state of the empire you're trying to state of the empire you're trying to state of the empire you're trying to topple on the other side, cuz they're topple on the other side, cuz they're topple on the other side, cuz they're going to both be Alexander and Das, going to both be Alexander and Das, going to both be Alexander and Das, ostentatious about their look. They want ostentatious about their look. They want ostentatious about their look. They want their side to see them. Can you imagine their side to see them. Can you imagine their side to see them. Can you imagine what it must have been like for the what it must have been like for the what it must have been like for the Persians? You know, the people in this Persians? You know, the people in this Persians? You know, the people in this area haven't seen a royal army in 150 area haven't seen a royal army in 150 area haven't seen a royal army in 150 years. Well, they sure as heck probably years. Well, they sure as heck probably years. Well, they sure as heck probably haven't seen the king either.

haven't seen the king either. haven't seen the king either. And the Persian king is not a pharaoh. And the Persian king is not a pharaoh. And the Persian king is not a pharaoh. He's not a god king, but he's a I think He's not a god king, but he's a I think He's not a god king, but he's a I think it's safe to say you could call him a it's safe to say you could call him a it's safe to say you could call him a near god king, a demigod king. Um, if near god king, a demigod king. Um, if near god king, a demigod king. Um, if you have this idea that God is with you you have this idea that God is with you you have this idea that God is with you in this battle, well, having the Persian in this battle, well, having the Persian in this battle, well, having the Persian king here would be the next best thing. king here would be the next best thing. king here would be the next best thing. How could you lose with this guy here? How could you lose with this guy here? How could you lose with this guy here? Surely you can't. Surely you can't. Surely you can't. But to quote another uh very confident, But to quote another uh very confident, But to quote another uh very confident, maybe even arrogant uh self- assured maybe even arrogant uh self- assured maybe even arrogant uh self- assured blonde guy, to be the man, you got to blonde guy, to be the man, you got to blonde guy, to be the man, you got to beat the man. And this is Alexander's beat the man. And this is Alexander's beat the man. And this is Alexander's moment to do just that. And he can see moment to do just that. And he can see moment to do just that. And he can see him on the other side. And if you can him on the other side. And if you can him on the other side. And if you can see him, this is what we used to say see him, this is what we used to say see him, this is what we used to say about modern combat, tank combat. If you about modern combat, tank combat. If you about modern combat, tank combat. If you can see it, you can kill it. If you can can see it, you can kill it. If you can can see it, you can kill it. If you can see the king on the other side of the see the king on the other side of the see the king on the other side of the battlefield whose empire you want, you battlefield whose empire you want, you battlefield whose empire you want, you can kill him. can kill him. can kill him. And Alexander continues to march And Alexander continues to march And Alexander continues to march forward. We don't know how far away from forward. We don't know how far away from forward. We don't know how far away from the Persians he stops, but as he's the Persians he stops, but as he's the Persians he stops, but as he's advancing, he's deploying. At some advancing, he's deploying. At some advancing, he's deploying. At some point, he decides to punch uh the light point, he decides to punch uh the light point, he decides to punch uh the light troops up in the hills. What did we say?

troops up in the hills. What did we say? troops up in the hills. What did we say? It's like, if you believe Aren's It's like, if you believe Aren's It's like, if you believe Aren's numbers, it's a modern-day infantry numbers, it's a modern-day infantry numbers, it's a modern-day infantry division, a modern-day reinforced division, a modern-day reinforced division, a modern-day reinforced infantry division up in the foothills, infantry division up in the foothills, infantry division up in the foothills, you know, going up into the mountains. you know, going up into the mountains. you know, going up into the mountains. Alexander sends some troops, notably his Alexander sends some troops, notably his Alexander sends some troops, notably his special forces, Ukrainian javelin men special forces, Ukrainian javelin men special forces, Ukrainian javelin men and some support troops up there. They and some support troops up there. They and some support troops up there. They punch these light troops in the nose. punch these light troops in the nose. punch these light troops in the nose. They quickly go scurrying back up the They quickly go scurrying back up the They quickly go scurrying back up the hills. They want no part of that. And hills. They want no part of that. And hills. They want no part of that. And Alexander determines that if he puts a Alexander determines that if he puts a Alexander determines that if he puts a couple hundred cavalry over there and couple hundred cavalry over there and couple hundred cavalry over there and some light troops, those people in the some light troops, those people in the some light troops, those people in the hills won't bother him very much. And he hills won't bother him very much. And he hills won't bother him very much. And he was right. was right. was right. But as he begins to finish his But as he begins to finish his But as he begins to finish his deployment, there will be, and you deployment, there will be, and you deployment, there will be, and you Alexander fans know about this already, Alexander fans know about this already, Alexander fans know about this already, a famous, shall we put it in air quotes, a famous, shall we put it in air quotes, a famous, shall we put it in air quotes, lastminute adjustment on Alexander's lastminute adjustment on Alexander's lastminute adjustment on Alexander's part. part. part. He will look on the other side. And the He will look on the other side. And the He will look on the other side. And the Persians, you know, to avoid confusion, Persians, you know, to avoid confusion, Persians, you know, to avoid confusion, we should not do left and right flanks we should not do left and right flanks we should not do left and right flanks as much as just saying the mountain side as much as just saying the mountain side as much as just saying the mountain side of the battlefield and the seaside of of the battlefield and the seaside of of the battlefield and the seaside of the battlefield. And it sounds like the the battlefield. And it sounds like the the battlefield. And it sounds like the Persian king had had plans to put some Persian king had had plans to put some Persian king had had plans to put some cavalry up against the mountains on his cavalry up against the mountains on his cavalry up against the mountains on his side, right, his left. And then when side, right, his left. And then when side, right, his left. And then when they got there determined it was they got there determined it was they got there determined it was terrible cavalry country. So he moves terrible cavalry country. So he moves terrible cavalry country. So he moves them over to the seaside where he them over to the seaside where he them over to the seaside where he already has the hammerhead of his hammer already has the hammerhead of his hammer already has the hammerhead of his hammer blow stationed and turns the hammerhead blow stationed and turns the hammerhead blow stationed and turns the hammerhead into a sledgehammer head. He's got into a sledgehammer head. He's got into a sledgehammer head. He's got basically what would you say? I was basically what would you say? I was basically what would you say? I was going to say all, but most of his going to say all, but most of his going to say all, but most of his cavalry over there and it's at least cavalry over there and it's at least cavalry over there and it's at least 10,000. Could be 15. We don't know how 10,000. Could be 15. We don't know how 10,000. Could be 15. We don't know how many in a confined space. That's an many in a confined space. That's an many in a confined space. That's an overwhelming sort of sledgehammer. And overwhelming sort of sledgehammer. And overwhelming sort of sledgehammer. And it looks like Alexander was planning the it looks like Alexander was planning the it looks like Alexander was planning the exact same idea in reverse in a mirror

exact same idea in reverse in a mirror exact same idea in reverse in a mirror image cuz he was going to put his, you image cuz he was going to put his, you image cuz he was going to put his, you know, hardcore striking cavalry on the know, hardcore striking cavalry on the know, hardcore striking cavalry on the far right up against the mountains. Um, far right up against the mountains. Um, far right up against the mountains. Um, and then when he saw what the Persians and then when he saw what the Persians and then when he saw what the Persians did, he determined that he better call did, he determined that he better call did, he determined that he better call an audible. an audible. an audible. better just send about half of the better just send about half of the better just send about half of the cavalry that he had on his side, the far cavalry that he had on his side, the far cavalry that he had on his side, the far right, send them all to the other side right, send them all to the other side right, send them all to the other side because otherwise you're going to have because otherwise you're going to have because otherwise you're going to have that entire sledgehammer head of 10, how that entire sledgehammer head of 10, how that entire sledgehammer head of 10, how many per thousand Persian cavalry many per thousand Persian cavalry many per thousand Persian cavalry facing, you know, a few hundred Greek facing, you know, a few hundred Greek facing, you know, a few hundred Greek allied cavalry. Well, that's not going allied cavalry. Well, that's not going allied cavalry. Well, that's not going to work. So Alexander sends the thesis to work. So Alexander sends the thesis to work. So Alexander sends the thesis cavalry, cavalry, cavalry, arguably as good as uh the companion arguably as good as uh the companion arguably as good as uh the companion cavalry, but as I said, arguably and you cavalry, but as I said, arguably and you cavalry, but as I said, arguably and you will get punched in the nose if you say will get punched in the nose if you say will get punched in the nose if you say that to the wrong people. Aryan says that to the wrong people. Aryan says that to the wrong people. Aryan says that Alexander told the theens to make that Alexander told the theens to make that Alexander told the theens to make this maneuver this, you know, going in this maneuver this, you know, going in this maneuver this, you know, going in motion from right to left, from mountain motion from right to left, from mountain motion from right to left, from mountain side to seaside behind the big block of side to seaside behind the big block of side to seaside behind the big block of human beings that is the failank so that human beings that is the failank so that human beings that is the failank so that the Persians won't see it.

the Persians won't see it. the Persians won't see it. But it still means that when they get But it still means that when they get But it still means that when they get there, the entire Persian sledgehammer there, the entire Persian sledgehammer there, the entire Persian sledgehammer has to be held off by a mere 2400 or has to be held off by a mere 2400 or has to be held off by a mere 2400 or 2500 cavalry. 2500 cavalry. 2500 cavalry. That job sucks and you wouldn't want to That job sucks and you wouldn't want to That job sucks and you wouldn't want to be the guy that has it. And the guy that be the guy that has it. And the guy that be the guy that has it. And the guy that has it is Parminio, has it is Parminio, has it is Parminio, the only great general Alexander's dad the only great general Alexander's dad the only great general Alexander's dad ever found. He said one of the two Jack ever found. He said one of the two Jack ever found. He said one of the two Jack Lain Macedonian generals that are still Lain Macedonian generals that are still Lain Macedonian generals that are still around. um both approaching 70 years around. um both approaching 70 years around. um both approaching 70 years old. The other one's Antiper back in old. The other one's Antiper back in old. The other one's Antiper back in Macedonia, ruling in Alexanderstead and Macedonia, ruling in Alexanderstead and Macedonia, ruling in Alexanderstead and getting headaches from Alexander's getting headaches from Alexander's getting headaches from Alexander's headstrong mother. But if you recall, headstrong mother. But if you recall, headstrong mother. But if you recall, Parmenia was only recently volunteering Parmenia was only recently volunteering Parmenia was only recently volunteering to lead a ship assault in person in the to lead a ship assault in person in the to lead a ship assault in person in the front rank. So, holy cow, approaching 70 front rank. So, holy cow, approaching 70 front rank. So, holy cow, approaching 70 years old and now his job is to hold off years old and now his job is to hold off years old and now his job is to hold off tens of thousands of Persian cavalry tens of thousands of Persian cavalry tens of thousands of Persian cavalry outnumbered three or four or five to outnumbered three or four or five to outnumbered three or four or five to one. Alexander will do some other one. Alexander will do some other one. Alexander will do some other finagling, putting troops in different finagling, putting troops in different finagling, putting troops in different places. And by the time he's done, it places. And by the time he's done, it places. And by the time he's done, it looks something like this. And remember, looks something like this. And remember, looks something like this. And remember, when you see historians uh creating when you see historians uh creating when you see historians uh creating maps, recreating the deployments here, maps, recreating the deployments here, maps, recreating the deployments here, they all look a little different from they all look a little different from they all look a little different from one another because everyone's one another because everyone's one another because everyone's reconstructing it from Aryan, who's got reconstructing it from Aryan, who's got reconstructing it from Aryan, who's got some ancient source, and well, who some ancient source, and well, who some ancient source, and well, who knows, right?

knows, right? knows, right? But the way it looks is, as we said, But the way it looks is, as we said, But the way it looks is, as we said, there are some light troops and some there are some light troops and some there are some light troops and some tribesmen and a little bit of cavalry tribesmen and a little bit of cavalry tribesmen and a little bit of cavalry holding off any possible sort by those holding off any possible sort by those holding off any possible sort by those Persians that have been driven back up Persians that have been driven back up Persians that have been driven back up into the heights up into the mountains into the heights up into the mountains into the heights up into the mountains on the far right as Alexander would see on the far right as Alexander would see on the far right as Alexander would see it. So now on the far right of it. So now on the far right of it. So now on the far right of Alexander's forces are in the position Alexander's forces are in the position Alexander's forces are in the position of honor by the way, the companion of honor by the way, the companion of honor by the way, the companion cavalry. cavalry. cavalry. Normally, he's with them and he may be. Normally, he's with them and he may be. Normally, he's with them and he may be. Traditionally, he is with them in this Traditionally, he is with them in this Traditionally, he is with them in this battle, but there's a growing sentiment battle, but there's a growing sentiment battle, but there's a growing sentiment amongst many modern historians that he amongst many modern historians that he amongst many modern historians that he may indeed have been with the unit to may indeed have been with the unit to may indeed have been with the unit to the left of the companions, the 30,000 the left of the companions, the 30,000 the left of the companions, the 30,000 elite Hyposaspus Infantry. elite Hyposaspus Infantry. elite Hyposaspus Infantry. Now, Alexander's dad, Philip, often Now, Alexander's dad, Philip, often Now, Alexander's dad, Philip, often fought with the elite infantry back in fought with the elite infantry back in fought with the elite infantry back in his day. We'll get into the arguments his day. We'll get into the arguments his day. We'll get into the arguments for why Alexander might have done it in for why Alexander might have done it in for why Alexander might have done it in this battle, but traditionally most this battle, but traditionally most this battle, but traditionally most historians have had him again with the historians have had him again with the historians have had him again with the cavalry in the front rank, tip of the cavalry in the front rank, tip of the cavalry in the front rank, tip of the spear, all that kind of stuff. spear, all that kind of stuff. spear, all that kind of stuff. The Hypaspus to the left of the The Hypaspus to the left of the The Hypaspus to the left of the companion cavalry, all kinds of roles, companion cavalry, all kinds of roles, companion cavalry, all kinds of roles, capable of anything, can fight with capable of anything, can fight with capable of anything, can fight with anything. I mean, just fantastic troops.

anything. I mean, just fantastic troops. anything. I mean, just fantastic troops. They are normally the hinge between the They are normally the hinge between the They are normally the hinge between the fast charging cavalry of Alexander on fast charging cavalry of Alexander on fast charging cavalry of Alexander on the far right and protecting the flank the far right and protecting the flank the far right and protecting the flank of the giant block of human beings to of the giant block of human beings to of the giant block of human beings to their left, the failank. their left, the failank. their left, the failank. The failank is the center of the The failank is the center of the The failank is the center of the Alexandrian battle line. It is the most Alexandrian battle line. It is the most Alexandrian battle line. It is the most awe inspiring awe inspiring awe inspiring uh unit I can think of. Remember uh unit I can think of. Remember uh unit I can think of. Remember Alexander's dad is as far as we know the Alexander's dad is as far as we know the Alexander's dad is as far as we know the first person to ever create a true pike first person to ever create a true pike first person to ever create a true pike fail length 16 17 18t whatever pikes. As fail length 16 17 18t whatever pikes. As fail length 16 17 18t whatever pikes. As we've said a lot of long spear failances we've said a lot of long spear failances we've said a lot of long spear failances going back to say Mesopotamia you know going back to say Mesopotamia you know going back to say Mesopotamia you know 12T whatever this is a whole different 12T whatever this is a whole different 12T whatever this is a whole different animal and you know how effective it is animal and you know how effective it is animal and you know how effective it is because human beings will be using it up because human beings will be using it up because human beings will be using it up until gunpowder becomes really until gunpowder becomes really until gunpowder becomes really effective. I mean the whole era called effective. I mean the whole era called effective. I mean the whole era called the pike and shot era involves pike the pike and shot era involves pike the pike and shot era involves pike failances 2,000 years after this time failances 2,000 years after this time failances 2,000 years after this time period and Alexander's pike failank is period and Alexander's pike failank is period and Alexander's pike failank is only a few decades old by this time only a few decades old by this time only a few decades old by this time right so interesting and important right so interesting and important right so interesting and important weapon system I would love to see it weapon system I would love to see it weapon system I would love to see it from a drone from the air I mean if the from a drone from the air I mean if the from a drone from the air I mean if the hyposaspice in this battle line at the hyposaspice in this battle line at the hyposaspice in this battle line at the battle of Isis take a look to the left battle of Isis take a look to the left battle of Isis take a look to the left they can see it reportedly 12,000 men they can see it reportedly 12,000 men they can see it reportedly 12,000 men strong if it's at full strength strong if it's at full strength strong if it's at full strength eight ranks deep. That can vary. We're eight ranks deep. That can vary. We're eight ranks deep. That can vary. We're told eight ranks deep in this battle, told eight ranks deep in this battle, told eight ranks deep in this battle, which means it would have stretched the which means it would have stretched the which means it would have stretched the better part of a mile long. Anywhere better part of a mile long. Anywhere better part of a mile long. Anywhere from like, you know, I did the math,8 from like, you know, I did the math,8 from like, you know, I did the math,8 uh miles to 1.2 miles, whatever you want uh miles to 1.2 miles, whatever you want uh miles to 1.2 miles, whatever you want to say. It's a long distance of uh human

to say. It's a long distance of uh human to say. It's a long distance of uh human beings holding giant pikes to create the beings holding giant pikes to create the beings holding giant pikes to create the equivalent of a no man's land, a dead equivalent of a no man's land, a dead equivalent of a no man's land, a dead zone uh for many feet in front of their zone uh for many feet in front of their zone uh for many feet in front of their unit. unit. unit. Seeing it would be incredible. Seeing it would be incredible. Seeing it would be incredible. 165 years after this battle, a Roman 165 years after this battle, a Roman 165 years after this battle, a Roman general saw his first version of a general saw his first version of a general saw his first version of a Macedonian failank and proclaimed it the Macedonian failank and proclaimed it the Macedonian failank and proclaimed it the most terrifying thing he'd ever seen in most terrifying thing he'd ever seen in most terrifying thing he'd ever seen in his life. his life. his life. The failank is broken down into smaller The failank is broken down into smaller The failank is broken down into smaller units, call them battalions, call them units, call them battalions, call them units, call them battalions, call them regiments, whatever you want. Taxus, I regiments, whatever you want. Taxus, I regiments, whatever you want. Taxus, I think, is the Greek name. And each of think, is the Greek name. And each of think, is the Greek name. And each of those battalions are commanded by famous those battalions are commanded by famous those battalions are commanded by famous people, people who made it into Ary and people, people who made it into Ary and people, people who made it into Ary and whose names are recorded. And when I whose names are recorded. And when I whose names are recorded. And when I tried to imagine, you know, how crazy it tried to imagine, you know, how crazy it tried to imagine, you know, how crazy it is that unit commanders would be famous is that unit commanders would be famous is that unit commanders would be famous like this, I tried to remember that for like this, I tried to remember that for like this, I tried to remember that for the ancient peoples like the Greeks, the ancient peoples like the Greeks, the ancient peoples like the Greeks, they didn't fight far-flung wars with they didn't fight far-flung wars with they didn't fight far-flung wars with many armies out there like we did in the many armies out there like we did in the many armies out there like we did in the World Wars where we'd have these famous World Wars where we'd have these famous World Wars where we'd have these famous commanders in charge of theaters. Their commanders in charge of theaters. Their commanders in charge of theaters. Their famous commanders were the equivalent of famous commanders were the equivalent of famous commanders were the equivalent of unit commanders and their wars were unit commanders and their wars were unit commanders and their wars were often fought on battlefields. So when often fought on battlefields. So when often fought on battlefields. So when they have an amus or a Tammy or a they have an amus or a Tammy or a they have an amus or a Tammy or a perticus commanding these units and we perticus commanding these units and we perticus commanding these units and we question why they're famous today, well question why they're famous today, well question why they're famous today, well what if we just change their name a what if we just change their name a what if we just change their name a little and imagine one battalion of the little and imagine one battalion of the little and imagine one battalion of the failank is commanded by Patton and failank is commanded by Patton and failank is commanded by Patton and another by Eisenhower and the one to the another by Eisenhower and the one to the another by Eisenhower and the one to the left of them by Douglas. The situation left of them by Douglas. The situation left of them by Douglas. The situation MacArthur and all of a sudden it doesn't MacArthur and all of a sudden it doesn't MacArthur and all of a sudden it doesn't seem so strange, does it?

seem so strange, does it? seem so strange, does it? but a lot of valiant but a lot of valiant but a lot of valiant killer not scared of anything human killer not scared of anything human killer not scared of anything human beings uh in the officer corps of this beings uh in the officer corps of this beings uh in the officer corps of this failank and they're ready to go. To the failank and they're ready to go. To the failank and they're ready to go. To the left of them we are told some more light left of them we are told some more light left of them we are told some more light troops maybe some more tribesmen. To the troops maybe some more tribesmen. To the troops maybe some more tribesmen. To the left of them are the 24 2500 cavalry left of them are the 24 2500 cavalry left of them are the 24 2500 cavalry with Parmenia we just mentioned. And with Parmenia we just mentioned. And with Parmenia we just mentioned. And behind all this we are told a reserve behind all this we are told a reserve behind all this we are told a reserve made up of the mercenaries. made up of the mercenaries. made up of the mercenaries. a battle cry if you believe the vulga a battle cry if you believe the vulga a battle cry if you believe the vulga traditions talks about it uh will ring traditions talks about it uh will ring traditions talks about it uh will ring out from both sides echoing off the out from both sides echoing off the out from both sides echoing off the hills tens of thousands of human beings hills tens of thousands of human beings hills tens of thousands of human beings you know screaming their war cries at you know screaming their war cries at you know screaming their war cries at the same time and now let's just picture the same time and now let's just picture the same time and now let's just picture the scene for a second if we will the scene for a second if we will the scene for a second if we will historian Arthur Ferrell says the battle historian Arthur Ferrell says the battle historian Arthur Ferrell says the battle lines about two two and a half miles lines about two two and a half miles lines about two two and a half miles long estimates are that the time of day long estimates are that the time of day long estimates are that the time of day is the late afternoon based on how much is the late afternoon based on how much is the late afternoon based on how much marching has already occurred to get us marching has already occurred to get us marching has already occurred to get us to this point. Arthur Frell says, to this point. Arthur Frell says, to this point. Arthur Frell says, "Figure 400 p.m." He also says, "In this "Figure 400 p.m." He also says, "In this "Figure 400 p.m." He also says, "In this part of the world, in this time of year, part of the world, in this time of year, part of the world, in this time of year, sun starts setting at 5. It's pitch sun starts setting at 5. It's pitch sun starts setting at 5. It's pitch black at 6:30." What that means is we've black at 6:30." What that means is we've black at 6:30." What that means is we've got an X to fill in for the algebraic got an X to fill in for the algebraic got an X to fill in for the algebraic equation that are the unknowns about equation that are the unknowns about equation that are the unknowns about this battle. If it starts at 4:00 and this battle. If it starts at 4:00 and this battle. If it starts at 4:00 and it's pitch black at 6:30, it's not it's pitch black at 6:30, it's not it's pitch black at 6:30, it's not lasting all that long.

lasting all that long. lasting all that long. The date is anywhere from November 5th The date is anywhere from November 5th The date is anywhere from November 5th to November 12th. You'll find different to November 12th. You'll find different to November 12th. You'll find different um dates. 3:33 B.CE. um dates. 3:33 B.CE. um dates. 3:33 B.CE. Alexander's army has been marching since Alexander's army has been marching since Alexander's army has been marching since at least 3:00 a.m. And who knows what at least 3:00 a.m. And who knows what at least 3:00 a.m. And who knows what kind of asleep they had the previous few kind of asleep they had the previous few kind of asleep they had the previous few nights before that. Lots of stopping, nights before that. Lots of stopping, nights before that. Lots of stopping, starting, dressing the lines. Uh it's starting, dressing the lines. Uh it's starting, dressing the lines. Uh it's probably warm and by the time you get probably warm and by the time you get probably warm and by the time you get there and you're all set up and it's 400 there and you're all set up and it's 400 there and you're all set up and it's 400 p.m. I would think you would be tired, p.m. I would think you would be tired, p.m. I would think you would be tired, worn out, but who knows? Maybe the worn out, but who knows? Maybe the worn out, but who knows? Maybe the adrenaline's kicked in and you're ready. adrenaline's kicked in and you're ready. adrenaline's kicked in and you're ready. Um, but no matter what, at least the Um, but no matter what, at least the Um, but no matter what, at least the Persians have been sitting around Persians have been sitting around Persians have been sitting around waiting. They may be scared, but they waiting. They may be scared, but they waiting. They may be scared, but they shouldn't be worn out. shouldn't be worn out. shouldn't be worn out. And Alexander will ride, you know, the And Alexander will ride, you know, the And Alexander will ride, you know, the stories say, and any movie is going to stories say, and any movie is going to stories say, and any movie is going to have this up and down the front line. have this up and down the front line. have this up and down the front line. He's still out of missile range, so no He's still out of missile range, so no He's still out of missile range, so no problem. You can be that close to the problem. You can be that close to the problem. You can be that close to the enemy and you're perfectly safe. Ride up enemy and you're perfectly safe. Ride up enemy and you're perfectly safe. Ride up and down the battle line, pick out and down the battle line, pick out and down the battle line, pick out individuals. He wants to, you know, individuals. He wants to, you know, individuals. He wants to, you know, tell, "Hey, you did great in the last tell, "Hey, you did great in the last tell, "Hey, you did great in the last battle. You're going to do great today." battle. You're going to do great today." battle. You're going to do great today." All that kind of stuff. And then after All that kind of stuff. And then after All that kind of stuff. And then after that last stopping and dressing of the that last stopping and dressing of the that last stopping and dressing of the lines or so, still outside a missile lines or so, still outside a missile lines or so, still outside a missile range, the last advance start. It starts range, the last advance start. It starts range, the last advance start. It starts at a sort of a marching normal pace.

at a sort of a marching normal pace. at a sort of a marching normal pace. Everybody's trying to sort of stay stay Everybody's trying to sort of stay stay Everybody's trying to sort of stay stay together, the line unbroken, everybody together, the line unbroken, everybody together, the line unbroken, everybody go at the same pace. But as soon as they go at the same pace. But as soon as they go at the same pace. But as soon as they get to the area that you would call, if get to the area that you would call, if get to the area that you would call, if we were talking about artillery, the we were talking about artillery, the we were talking about artillery, the beaten zone, where the missiles can hit beaten zone, where the missiles can hit beaten zone, where the missiles can hit you, the farthest range missiles, that you, the farthest range missiles, that you, the farthest range missiles, that would be the the Bowman. Uh once would be the the Bowman. Uh once would be the the Bowman. Uh once Alexander gets to that point, Alexander gets to that point, Alexander gets to that point, everybody's supposed to go double time everybody's supposed to go double time everybody's supposed to go double time and the running starts or at least the and the running starts or at least the and the running starts or at least the canering. canering. canering. This is where things will start to get This is where things will start to get This is where things will start to get funky, though, because imagine between funky, though, because imagine between funky, though, because imagine between 30 and 45,000 men and horses trying to 30 and 45,000 men and horses trying to 30 and 45,000 men and horses trying to stay in any semblance of order when stay in any semblance of order when stay in any semblance of order when beginning to move at this pace while beginning to move at this pace while beginning to move at this pace while under fire. the under fire part. Well, under fire. the under fire part. Well, under fire. the under fire part. Well, who knows where that starts. Would you who knows where that starts. Would you who knows where that starts. Would you say 50 yards certainly, but 75 yards say 50 yards certainly, but 75 yards say 50 yards certainly, but 75 yards maybe away? maybe away? maybe away? And once that begins to happen, this is And once that begins to happen, this is And once that begins to happen, this is the wild card in all of the attempts to the wild card in all of the attempts to the wild card in all of the attempts to recreate ancient warfare. I've seen some recreate ancient warfare. I've seen some recreate ancient warfare. I've seen some wonderful recreations lately uh by wonderful recreations lately uh by wonderful recreations lately uh by basically scientists who get people out basically scientists who get people out basically scientists who get people out in the field. They train them for years.

in the field. They train them for years. in the field. They train them for years. They get them out there and they're They get them out there and they're They get them out there and they're working on things like crowd dynamics working on things like crowd dynamics working on things like crowd dynamics and how routes work. And it is and how routes work. And it is and how routes work. And it is fascinating. fascinating. fascinating. But what it can't show are the the But what it can't show are the the But what it can't show are the the things that would get people hurt or things that would get people hurt or things that would get people hurt or worse if you tried to recreate them in a worse if you tried to recreate them in a worse if you tried to recreate them in a modern sense. And one of the things is modern sense. And one of the things is modern sense. And one of the things is what the missiles do. And if they don't what the missiles do. And if they don't what the missiles do. And if they don't hurt or kill you, they require you to hurt or kill you, they require you to hurt or kill you, they require you to react to them. For example, if you've react to them. For example, if you've react to them. For example, if you've got the high pacifists right to the left got the high pacifists right to the left got the high pacifists right to the left of the companions and they're trying to of the companions and they're trying to of the companions and they're trying to keep pace with the companions who are keep pace with the companions who are keep pace with the companions who are moving quick because they want to avoid moving quick because they want to avoid moving quick because they want to avoid all the missiles, but the infantry has all the missiles, but the infantry has all the missiles, but the infantry has to, you know, sort of hide behind their to, you know, sort of hide behind their to, you know, sort of hide behind their shields. They have to try to create a shields. They have to try to create a shields. They have to try to create a sort of a close bond with all of their sort of a close bond with all of their sort of a close bond with all of their shields to protect themselves from the shields to protect themselves from the shields to protect themselves from the missiles. Even if they're trying to do missiles. Even if they're trying to do missiles. Even if they're trying to do this on the run, it's going to slow them this on the run, it's going to slow them this on the run, it's going to slow them down. It's going to impact the ability down. It's going to impact the ability down. It's going to impact the ability to move fluidly on the field. to move fluidly on the field. to move fluidly on the field. And I still, and you know, you're And I still, and you know, you're And I still, and you know, you're getting the Dan Carlin version of this getting the Dan Carlin version of this getting the Dan Carlin version of this story, but you've gotten everybody story, but you've gotten everybody story, but you've gotten everybody else's if you're an Alexander fan, so else's if you're an Alexander fan, so else's if you're an Alexander fan, so why not get mine? But I'm still trying why not get mine? But I'm still trying why not get mine? But I'm still trying to figure out how once Alexander and his to figure out how once Alexander and his to figure out how once Alexander and his forces get to this river, how the heck forces get to this river, how the heck forces get to this river, how the heck they don't get shot to heck trying to they don't get shot to heck trying to they don't get shot to heck trying to cross it. You ever seen a sporting event cross it. You ever seen a sporting event cross it. You ever seen a sporting event where they start throwing beer or where they start throwing beer or where they start throwing beer or something at a participant or a referee something at a participant or a referee something at a participant or a referee or something like that and you just see or something like that and you just see or something like that and you just see unbelievable numbers of these things unbelievable numbers of these things unbelievable numbers of these things flying out from the rafters on this flying out from the rafters on this flying out from the rafters on this person? Well, Alexander is going to be person? Well, Alexander is going to be person? Well, Alexander is going to be everybody's favorite target and you have

everybody's favorite target and you have everybody's favorite target and you have to imagine instead of, you know, beer or to imagine instead of, you know, beer or to imagine instead of, you know, beer or bottles or something being thrown at a bottles or something being thrown at a bottles or something being thrown at a modern sporting event, those are modern sporting event, those are modern sporting event, those are javelins. javelins. javelins. And as Alexander's calvary approaches And as Alexander's calvary approaches And as Alexander's calvary approaches the river, the Vulgate tradition, as the river, the Vulgate tradition, as the river, the Vulgate tradition, as it's called, would like you to see it's called, would like you to see it's called, would like you to see Alexander as this force of nature Alexander as this force of nature Alexander as this force of nature hitting the river, crossing it, and hitting the river, crossing it, and hitting the river, crossing it, and engaging with the Persians. The problem engaging with the Persians. The problem engaging with the Persians. The problem is is this is the sort of river, if you is is this is the sort of river, if you is is this is the sort of river, if you believe the historians who are writing believe the historians who are writing believe the historians who are writing about it, and why wouldn't you? That about it, and why wouldn't you? That about it, and why wouldn't you? That sounds like it is made to order for sounds like it is made to order for sounds like it is made to order for breaking your hor's legs. breaking your hor's legs. breaking your hor's legs. and recall and you know people don't and recall and you know people don't and recall and you know people don't think about this very much but all the think about this very much but all the think about this very much but all the sources talk about the fact that the sources talk about the fact that the sources talk about the fact that the Persians had massive amounts of scouting Persians had massive amounts of scouting Persians had massive amounts of scouting forces out there as Alexander approached forces out there as Alexander approached forces out there as Alexander approached you know what did they say more scouting you know what did they say more scouting you know what did they say more scouting forces than Alexander had troops if you forces than Alexander had troops if you forces than Alexander had troops if you want to believe Aryan's ridiculous want to believe Aryan's ridiculous want to believe Aryan's ridiculous numbers but what that means is those numbers but what that means is those numbers but what that means is those scouting forces prevented any of scouting forces prevented any of scouting forces prevented any of Alexander's recon forces from checking Alexander's recon forces from checking Alexander's recon forces from checking out the battlefield in advance and out the battlefield in advance and out the battlefield in advance and reporting back Alexander gets to find reporting back Alexander gets to find reporting back Alexander gets to find out and we said this at the at the out and we said this at the at the out and we said this at the at the granicus also didn't we? Alexander gets granicus also didn't we? Alexander gets granicus also didn't we? Alexander gets to find out what this river is like when to find out what this river is like when to find out what this river is like when he steps in it. And if he charges into he steps in it. And if he charges into he steps in it. And if he charges into it with 1,800 or 2,000 cavalry, you it with 1,800 or 2,000 cavalry, you it with 1,800 or 2,000 cavalry, you know, this is a river that's supposed to know, this is a river that's supposed to know, this is a river that's supposed to have gi, you know, the same steep banks have gi, you know, the same steep banks have gi, you know, the same steep banks as the Granicus brambles all over as the Granicus brambles all over as the Granicus brambles all over reinforced with a stockade of spikes, reinforced with a stockade of spikes, reinforced with a stockade of spikes, you know, cut into tree trunks and big you know, cut into tree trunks and big you know, cut into tree trunks and big boulders. Some of the historians believe boulders. Some of the historians believe boulders. Some of the historians believe big boulders in the river itself.

big boulders in the river itself. big boulders in the river itself. So, doing that with thousands of missile So, doing that with thousands of missile So, doing that with thousands of missile weapons, I do enjoy um how some of the weapons, I do enjoy um how some of the weapons, I do enjoy um how some of the ancient authors portray it. It's a bit ancient authors portray it. It's a bit ancient authors portray it. It's a bit of a trope, but I wonder what it would of a trope, but I wonder what it would of a trope, but I wonder what it would be like if the Persians held their fire be like if the Persians held their fire be like if the Persians held their fire and fired in volley. Uh it might look and fired in volley. Uh it might look and fired in volley. Uh it might look like what the ancient authors say, which like what the ancient authors say, which like what the ancient authors say, which they said there's so many missiles in they said there's so many missiles in they said there's so many missiles in the air that it's actually the air that it's actually the air that it's actually counterproductive because the missiles counterproductive because the missiles counterproductive because the missiles are all firing sort of at the same unit. are all firing sort of at the same unit. are all firing sort of at the same unit. So imagine Alexander's companions are So imagine Alexander's companions are So imagine Alexander's companions are drawing thousands of missile fire troops drawing thousands of missile fire troops drawing thousands of missile fire troops to shoot at it. Um the the missiles to shoot at it. Um the the missiles to shoot at it. Um the the missiles actually the ancient authors say collide actually the ancient authors say collide actually the ancient authors say collide with each other in the air. So a bunch with each other in the air. So a bunch with each other in the air. So a bunch of it is actually nullified by the fact of it is actually nullified by the fact of it is actually nullified by the fact that there are so many. But if there are that there are so many. But if there are that there are so many. But if there are so many, how many are getting through? so many, how many are getting through? so many, how many are getting through? And if Alexander is managing through And if Alexander is managing through And if Alexander is managing through whatever devices for personal protection whatever devices for personal protection whatever devices for personal protection he has to not get hit by one of those, he has to not get hit by one of those, he has to not get hit by one of those, how the heck is the horse surviving? how the heck is the horse surviving? how the heck is the horse surviving? Which brings us to the other possible Which brings us to the other possible Which brings us to the other possible way this all could have gone down. way this all could have gone down. way this all could have gone down. Maybe Alexander with the high pacifists.

Maybe Alexander with the high pacifists. Maybe Alexander with the high pacifists. This theory only a first time I ever This theory only a first time I ever This theory only a first time I ever encountered it was in the 1980s when encountered it was in the 1980s when encountered it was in the 1980s when Arthur Frell wrote about it um in his Arthur Frell wrote about it um in his Arthur Frell wrote about it um in his history of war and he wrote about it so history of war and he wrote about it so history of war and he wrote about it so that he could sort of take the opposing that he could sort of take the opposing that he could sort of take the opposing viewpoint. But since then, a bunch of viewpoint. But since then, a bunch of viewpoint. But since then, a bunch of historians have have come to the historians have have come to the historians have have come to the conclusion for a lot of the reasons I conclusion for a lot of the reasons I conclusion for a lot of the reasons I just mentioned that Alexander likely just mentioned that Alexander likely just mentioned that Alexander likely would not have forded the river and been would not have forded the river and been would not have forded the river and been the tip of the spear in this situation the tip of the spear in this situation the tip of the spear in this situation with cavalry. with cavalry. with cavalry. His father often fought with the elite His father often fought with the elite His father often fought with the elite infantry. In this case, if Alexander did infantry. In this case, if Alexander did infantry. In this case, if Alexander did fight with the elite elite infantry, a fight with the elite elite infantry, a fight with the elite elite infantry, a lot of things start to make sense. Other lot of things start to make sense. Other lot of things start to make sense. Other things make less sense. The things that things make less sense. The things that things make less sense. The things that make sense is all this missile fire is make sense is all this missile fire is make sense is all this missile fire is much more survivable if you're with the much more survivable if you're with the much more survivable if you're with the heavy infantry. heavy infantry. heavy infantry. you guys with your big shields fighting you guys with your big shields fighting you guys with your big shields fighting as hoplights. Uh hoplights are as hoplights. Uh hoplights are as hoplights. Uh hoplights are traditionally not very vulnerable to traditionally not very vulnerable to traditionally not very vulnerable to missile fire anyway. You could cross the missile fire anyway. You could cross the missile fire anyway. You could cross the stream at kind of a walk holding up your stream at kind of a walk holding up your stream at kind of a walk holding up your shields over your head and then when you shields over your head and then when you shields over your head and then when you get to the far bank instead of a horse get to the far bank instead of a horse get to the far bank instead of a horse trying to clamor up over a stockade of trying to clamor up over a stockade of trying to clamor up over a stockade of sharpened spikes, you can begin to fight sharpened spikes, you can begin to fight sharpened spikes, you can begin to fight over that.

over that. over that. The problem with this idea comes later The problem with this idea comes later The problem with this idea comes later because we know there's going to be a because we know there's going to be a because we know there's going to be a cavalry charge with Alexander at one cavalry charge with Alexander at one cavalry charge with Alexander at one stage in the battle. And if you buy into stage in the battle. And if you buy into stage in the battle. And if you buy into the idea that he's fighting on foot with the idea that he's fighting on foot with the idea that he's fighting on foot with the Hypaspus here, at some point he has the Hypaspus here, at some point he has the Hypaspus here, at some point he has to mount up. So, we'll get to that in a to mount up. So, we'll get to that in a to mount up. So, we'll get to that in a minute. But it's either the Hypaspus minute. But it's either the Hypaspus minute. But it's either the Hypaspus that cross first with Alexander leading that cross first with Alexander leading that cross first with Alexander leading them or the companions that cross first them or the companions that cross first them or the companions that cross first with Alexander leading them. But the with Alexander leading them. But the with Alexander leading them. But the infantry in front of Alexander infantry in front of Alexander infantry in front of Alexander freaks out. Remember, it was always said freaks out. Remember, it was always said freaks out. Remember, it was always said that the battlefield is ruled by Phobos that the battlefield is ruled by Phobos that the battlefield is ruled by Phobos and Pan, right? Fear and panic. and Pan, right? Fear and panic. and Pan, right? Fear and panic. And if you've ever been in a crowd that And if you've ever been in a crowd that And if you've ever been in a crowd that panics, maybe that's a little bit like panics, maybe that's a little bit like panics, maybe that's a little bit like what the feeling is when, you know, we what the feeling is when, you know, we what the feeling is when, you know, we had said you could see this whole battle had said you could see this whole battle had said you could see this whole battle if you're on some high vantage point. if you're on some high vantage point. if you're on some high vantage point. But if you're not, and if you're right But if you're not, and if you're right But if you're not, and if you're right down in it, often times like in a down in it, often times like in a down in it, often times like in a panicked crowd, you don't know what's panicked crowd, you don't know what's panicked crowd, you don't know what's going on. But when people start running, going on. But when people start running, going on. But when people start running, often you do, too. You don't know what often you do, too. You don't know what often you do, too. You don't know what they're running from. You just know that they're running from. You just know that they're running from. You just know that whatever they're running from is right whatever they're running from is right whatever they're running from is right behind them and in a minute it's going behind them and in a minute it's going behind them and in a minute it's going to be on you. And when people start to to be on you. And when people start to to be on you. And when people start to run, it's contagious. And this is why, run, it's contagious. And this is why, run, it's contagious. And this is why, you know, when people say, "Why don't you know, when people say, "Why don't you know, when people say, "Why don't you just mobilize the whole population you just mobilize the whole population you just mobilize the whole population to swamp Alexander with half a million to swamp Alexander with half a million to swamp Alexander with half a million men, that's because you're bringing a men, that's because you're bringing a men, that's because you're bringing a bunch of people more likely to run, and bunch of people more likely to run, and bunch of people more likely to run, and that's more likely to make everyone else that's more likely to make everyone else that's more likely to make everyone else run. Routing is contagious.

run. Routing is contagious. run. Routing is contagious. Trying to figure out what happens here Trying to figure out what happens here Trying to figure out what happens here is difficult. There are lots of is difficult. There are lots of is difficult. There are lots of theories. I say that all the time. One theories. I say that all the time. One theories. I say that all the time. One is that there were a bunch of light is that there were a bunch of light is that there were a bunch of light troops and archers sort of at the edge troops and archers sort of at the edge troops and archers sort of at the edge of the river in front of whatever the of the river in front of whatever the of the river in front of whatever the formation of the the cartes represented. formation of the the cartes represented. formation of the the cartes represented. And those are the guys in front of And those are the guys in front of And those are the guys in front of Alexander, you know, that he's going to Alexander, you know, that he's going to Alexander, you know, that he's going to have to run into. And they're supposed have to run into. And they're supposed have to run into. And they're supposed to be most people think kind of to be most people think kind of to be most people think kind of hoplights. So heavy infantry. Oh, that hoplights. So heavy infantry. Oh, that hoplights. So heavy infantry. Oh, that would be a very bad group for Alexander would be a very bad group for Alexander would be a very bad group for Alexander to charge uphill coming from a river to charge uphill coming from a river to charge uphill coming from a river through the brambles up a sheer cliff through the brambles up a sheer cliff through the brambles up a sheer cliff when they're facing downward. In other when they're facing downward. In other when they're facing downward. In other words, this is the the setup that the words, this is the the setup that the words, this is the the setup that the Persians should have had at the Persians should have had at the Persians should have had at the Granicus, right? Instead of putting Granicus, right? Instead of putting Granicus, right? Instead of putting their cavalry on the edge of the their cavalry on the edge of the their cavalry on the edge of the riverbank, put your guys with long riverbank, put your guys with long riverbank, put your guys with long thrusting spears looking downward at the thrusting spears looking downward at the thrusting spears looking downward at the people trying to charge up into them. people trying to charge up into them. people trying to charge up into them. It'd be suicide. Unless the infantry It'd be suicide. Unless the infantry It'd be suicide. Unless the infantry with their long thrusting spears at the with their long thrusting spears at the with their long thrusting spears at the edge of the sheer river wall were edge of the sheer river wall were edge of the sheer river wall were disordered, they'd lost their formation. disordered, they'd lost their formation. disordered, they'd lost their formation. If they were confused, if they were If they were confused, if they were If they were confused, if they were pressed together, and if Phobos and Pan pressed together, and if Phobos and Pan pressed together, and if Phobos and Pan got a hold of them. One of the theories got a hold of them. One of the theories got a hold of them. One of the theories is that the light troops that were in is that the light troops that were in is that the light troops that were in front of those cardes, those hoplights front of those cardes, those hoplights front of those cardes, those hoplights from Persia, that they panicked, turned from Persia, that they panicked, turned from Persia, that they panicked, turned around and ran with Alexander's either around and ran with Alexander's either around and ran with Alexander's either cavalry or highospice right behind them cavalry or highospice right behind them cavalry or highospice right behind them and they disordered the Persian cartes.

and they disordered the Persian cartes. and they disordered the Persian cartes. Now, even if that didn't happen, somehow Now, even if that didn't happen, somehow Now, even if that didn't happen, somehow they panicked. They got the other word they panicked. They got the other word they panicked. They got the other word you'll hear sometimes is shaken. A unit you'll hear sometimes is shaken. A unit you'll hear sometimes is shaken. A unit is shaken. And there's a whole theory on is shaken. And there's a whole theory on is shaken. And there's a whole theory on cavalry warfare that says that that's cavalry warfare that says that that's cavalry warfare that says that that's what they do to infantry that they don't what they do to infantry that they don't what they do to infantry that they don't ever charge formed infantry, but they ever charge formed infantry, but they ever charge formed infantry, but they sort of fake it. It's like a giant game sort of fake it. It's like a giant game sort of fake it. It's like a giant game of chicken. Or if you ever played the of chicken. Or if you ever played the of chicken. Or if you ever played the game of, you know, made you flinch, the game of, you know, made you flinch, the game of, you know, made you flinch, the cavalry charges you. And if the infantry cavalry charges you. And if the infantry cavalry charges you. And if the infantry sort of panics, then the cavalry sort of panics, then the cavalry sort of panics, then the cavalry continues the charge, right? Completes continues the charge, right? Completes continues the charge, right? Completes it. If they don't panic, if they stand it. If they don't panic, if they stand it. If they don't panic, if they stand fast, the cavalry wheels away at the fast, the cavalry wheels away at the fast, the cavalry wheels away at the last minute. But even if that's last minute. But even if that's last minute. But even if that's something you can do on a nice flat something you can do on a nice flat something you can do on a nice flat field of battle, what the heck's going field of battle, what the heck's going field of battle, what the heck's going on here? This is broken country. I can't on here? This is broken country. I can't on here? This is broken country. I can't see that kind of maneuvering. see that kind of maneuvering. see that kind of maneuvering. And what that means is if Alexander's And what that means is if Alexander's And what that means is if Alexander's really with the cavalry and he charges really with the cavalry and he charges really with the cavalry and he charges that infantry hoping that they're going that infantry hoping that they're going that infantry hoping that they're going to flinch, what happens if they don't? to flinch, what happens if they don't? to flinch, what happens if they don't? That's a heck of a roll of the dice. If That's a heck of a roll of the dice. If That's a heck of a roll of the dice. If however he's with the high paspus, even however he's with the high paspus, even however he's with the high paspus, even if they don't flinch, you have a good if they don't flinch, you have a good if they don't flinch, you have a good chance of beating them. It just might be chance of beating them. It just might be chance of beating them. It just might be more of a slogging match regardless of more of a slogging match regardless of more of a slogging match regardless of what happens either. Again, different what happens either. Again, different what happens either. Again, different theories. Either they run away before theories. Either they run away before theories. Either they run away before Alexander even contacts them or Alexander even contacts them or Alexander even contacts them or basically there's two seconds of contact basically there's two seconds of contact basically there's two seconds of contact and everybody runs away on that flank.

and everybody runs away on that flank. and everybody runs away on that flank. You fans of the famous Zenapon work, the You fans of the famous Zenapon work, the You fans of the famous Zenapon work, the anabus, he talks about fighting in a anabus, he talks about fighting in a anabus, he talks about fighting in a Persian civil war and the Persians that Persian civil war and the Persians that Persian civil war and the Persians that he and his Greek mercenaries were facing he and his Greek mercenaries were facing he and his Greek mercenaries were facing ran away before they even got within a ran away before they even got within a ran away before they even got within a bow shots range. So you imagine they get bow shots range. So you imagine they get bow shots range. So you imagine they get within like a football field of view a within like a football field of view a within like a football field of view a unit of thousands of Persians, an oblong unit of thousands of Persians, an oblong unit of thousands of Persians, an oblong formation, he described it, and then formation, he described it, and then formation, he described it, and then then they get a good look at you and then they get a good look at you and then they get a good look at you and turn around and run away. turn around and run away. turn around and run away. Wargaming screws people up mentally from Wargaming screws people up mentally from Wargaming screws people up mentally from accepting this reality, too, because accepting this reality, too, because accepting this reality, too, because very few rule sets make it as common as very few rule sets make it as common as very few rule sets make it as common as it was for troops to just run away cuz it was for troops to just run away cuz it was for troops to just run away cuz who wants to play that game? get who wants to play that game? get who wants to play that game? get everything set up, paint your figures, everything set up, paint your figures, everything set up, paint your figures, put them out on the floor. You spend all put them out on the floor. You spend all put them out on the floor. You spend all day set up your army against your buddy day set up your army against your buddy day set up your army against your buddy and you're gonna kick his rear end and and you're gonna kick his rear end and and you're gonna kick his rear end and your army runs away. But it happened your army runs away. But it happened your army runs away. But it happened more often than people like to talk more often than people like to talk more often than people like to talk about. And a lot of it has to do in this about. And a lot of it has to do in this about. And a lot of it has to do in this ancient period with our natural ancient period with our natural ancient period with our natural unwillingness to face cold steel. unwillingness to face cold steel. unwillingness to face cold steel. This is very similar, by the way, in my This is very similar, by the way, in my This is very similar, by the way, in my mind to the whole idea that you mind to the whole idea that you mind to the whole idea that you Napoleonic fans and you American Civil Napoleonic fans and you American Civil Napoleonic fans and you American Civil War fans already know all about. It's War fans already know all about. It's War fans already know all about. It's the myth of the bayonet charge. The idea the myth of the bayonet charge. The idea the myth of the bayonet charge. The idea that people would charge into each other that people would charge into each other that people would charge into each other wielding the pointed ends of the blade wielding the pointed ends of the blade wielding the pointed ends of the blade at the end of a musket and fight each at the end of a musket and fight each at the end of a musket and fight each other with it as though they were using other with it as though they were using other with it as though they were using spears. We used to think that's what spears. We used to think that's what spears. We used to think that's what happened. And historians have disproven happened. And historians have disproven happened. And historians have disproven that by looking at the cause of death in that by looking at the cause of death in that by looking at the cause of death in all these wars and finding out that very all these wars and finding out that very all these wars and finding out that very very very few people were ever killed by very very few people were ever killed by very very few people were ever killed by bayonets. And the majority of those who

bayonets. And the majority of those who bayonets. And the majority of those who were were often more of a finishing off were were often more of a finishing off were were often more of a finishing off sort of deal. I mean, I think the sort of deal. I mean, I think the sort of deal. I mean, I think the numbers are in the Civil War, I think numbers are in the Civil War, I think numbers are in the Civil War, I think it's less than it's 1% or something. In it's less than it's 1% or something. In it's less than it's 1% or something. In the Napoleonic Wars, it's like 2 or 3%. the Napoleonic Wars, it's like 2 or 3%. the Napoleonic Wars, it's like 2 or 3%. It's nothing. It's nothing. It's nothing. But it indicates something. But it indicates something. But it indicates something. It shows you that when confronted with It shows you that when confronted with It shows you that when confronted with Cold Steel in a line of hundreds of Cold Steel in a line of hundreds of Cold Steel in a line of hundreds of human beings holding Cold Steel, most human beings holding Cold Steel, most human beings holding Cold Steel, most people figure out they've got better people figure out they've got better people figure out they've got better places to be. places to be. places to be. And if they can't figure it out for And if they can't figure it out for And if they can't figure it out for themselves, Phobos and Pan help them to themselves, Phobos and Pan help them to themselves, Phobos and Pan help them to understand it. And in this case, one way understand it. And in this case, one way understand it. And in this case, one way or another, no one stood around very or another, no one stood around very or another, no one stood around very long. And that works out wonderfully long. And that works out wonderfully long. And that works out wonderfully well for Alexander. But then again, that well for Alexander. But then again, that well for Alexander. But then again, that was the plan. It has to. It's everywhere was the plan. It has to. It's everywhere was the plan. It has to. It's everywhere else where Alexander's troops are being else where Alexander's troops are being else where Alexander's troops are being put in positions where, well, I can't put in positions where, well, I can't put in positions where, well, I can't think of any troops that would be think of any troops that would be think of any troops that would be expected to win in the sorts of expected to win in the sorts of expected to win in the sorts of circumstances that oh, say the failank circumstances that oh, say the failank circumstances that oh, say the failank finds itself in right here because the finds itself in right here because the finds itself in right here because the failank has been splined. failank has been splined. failank has been splined. Broken is a word that usually means Broken is a word that usually means Broken is a word that usually means routing and running away. But when routing and running away. But when routing and running away. But when applied to the failank, sometimes you applied to the failank, sometimes you applied to the failank, sometimes you will read accounts where they will talk will read accounts where they will talk will read accounts where they will talk about how at this point in the battle, about how at this point in the battle, about how at this point in the battle, the failank is broken. Meaning the the failank is broken. Meaning the the failank is broken. Meaning the 12,000 or so men that make up this giant 12,000 or so men that make up this giant 12,000 or so men that make up this giant block of human beings has gotten block of human beings has gotten block of human beings has gotten separated from itself.

separated from itself. separated from itself. And now it has to cross this river. And And now it has to cross this river. And And now it has to cross this river. And remember, the Persians have fortified it remember, the Persians have fortified it remember, the Persians have fortified it in places. So, rows of tree trunks that in places. So, rows of tree trunks that in places. So, rows of tree trunks that have been sharpened and and bonded have been sharpened and and bonded have been sharpened and and bonded together in parts of the river or right together in parts of the river or right together in parts of the river or right when you're getting out of the river. when you're getting out of the river. when you're getting out of the river. And these guys have 17 18 foot spears And these guys have 17 18 foot spears And these guys have 17 18 foot spears that they're holding straight up over that they're holding straight up over that they're holding straight up over their heads. And their real value is their heads. And their real value is their heads. And their real value is that they're so close together and a pin that they're so close together and a pin that they're so close together and a pin cushion, but they can't be a pin cushion cushion, but they can't be a pin cushion cushion, but they can't be a pin cushion in this sort of circumstances. And in this sort of circumstances. And in this sort of circumstances. And there's a steep wall of, you know, there's a steep wall of, you know, there's a steep wall of, you know, riverside in front of them and a bunch riverside in front of them and a bunch riverside in front of them and a bunch of guys, as we said, with long thrusting of guys, as we said, with long thrusting of guys, as we said, with long thrusting spears pointed down at them and spears pointed down at them and spears pointed down at them and brambles. brambles. brambles. What's the thinking here? What's the thinking here? What's the thinking here? As you might expect, it gets very hairy. As you might expect, it gets very hairy. As you might expect, it gets very hairy. And the late great AB Bosworth, who is, And the late great AB Bosworth, who is, And the late great AB Bosworth, who is, by the way, a proponent and always has by the way, a proponent and always has by the way, a proponent and always has been, that Alexander charged at the head been, that Alexander charged at the head been, that Alexander charged at the head of his cavalry. This is his account. And of his cavalry. This is his account. And of his cavalry. This is his account. And I'm going to give Aryen's account and I'm going to give Aryen's account and I'm going to give Aryen's account and some other ones. And they all kind of some other ones. And they all kind of some other ones. And they all kind of start, if you don't mind us going a start, if you don't mind us going a start, if you don't mind us going a little chronologically backwards for a little chronologically backwards for a little chronologically backwards for a second, usually at right before second, usually at right before second, usually at right before Alexander makes the charge. And here's Alexander makes the charge. And here's Alexander makes the charge. And here's the way uh Bosworth puts it. Quote, the way uh Bosworth puts it. Quote, the way uh Bosworth puts it. Quote, "Duras stood firm behind the Penaris "Duras stood firm behind the Penaris "Duras stood firm behind the Penaris River, leaving the offensive to the River, leaving the offensive to the River, leaving the offensive to the Macedonians. It was carefully launched, Macedonians. It was carefully launched, Macedonians. It was carefully launched, a measured advance in slow time to a measured advance in slow time to a measured advance in slow time to preserve the alignment of the failanks, preserve the alignment of the failanks, preserve the alignment of the failanks, and then at missile range, the charge and then at missile range, the charge and then at missile range, the charge led by Alexander himself. His cavalry led by Alexander himself. His cavalry led by Alexander himself. His cavalry was attacking across a stream, and its was attacking across a stream, and its was attacking across a stream, and its momentum cannot have been enormous. But momentum cannot have been enormous. But momentum cannot have been enormous. But even so, the lightly armed Persian even so, the lightly armed Persian even so, the lightly armed Persian infantry could not cope with the shock.

infantry could not cope with the shock. infantry could not cope with the shock. Alexander's cavalry drove forward, Alexander's cavalry drove forward, Alexander's cavalry drove forward, pushing left towards Das, who was in the pushing left towards Das, who was in the pushing left towards Das, who was in the center of the Persian levy, surrounded center of the Persian levy, surrounded center of the Persian levy, surrounded by his personal guard. Elsewhere, things by his personal guard. Elsewhere, things by his personal guard. Elsewhere, things went less well. The failanks could not went less well. The failanks could not went less well. The failanks could not keep pace with Alexander's charge, he keep pace with Alexander's charge, he keep pace with Alexander's charge, he writes, and a gap opened between writes, and a gap opened between writes, and a gap opened between infantry and cavalry. What was worse, infantry and cavalry. What was worse, infantry and cavalry. What was worse, the cohesion of the infantry line broke the cohesion of the infantry line broke the cohesion of the infantry line broke down while they were forcing the river, down while they were forcing the river, down while they were forcing the river, and further gaps developed. The and further gaps developed. The and further gaps developed. The mercenary hoplights in Duras' service mercenary hoplights in Duras' service mercenary hoplights in Duras' service could then insinuate themselves between could then insinuate themselves between could then insinuate themselves between the lethal Sarissa, the Pikes, and the lethal Sarissa, the Pikes, and the lethal Sarissa, the Pikes, and attack the Macedonians from the side attack the Macedonians from the side attack the Macedonians from the side where they were most vulnerable. It was where they were most vulnerable. It was where they were most vulnerable. It was a tactic, he writes, used by the Romans a tactic, he writes, used by the Romans a tactic, he writes, used by the Romans to destroy the Macedonian armies in the to destroy the Macedonian armies in the to destroy the Macedonian armies in the second century BC. And at Isis, the second century BC. And at Isis, the second century BC. And at Isis, the failank was more closely challenged than failank was more closely challenged than failank was more closely challenged than at any other time in the reign, meaning at any other time in the reign, meaning at any other time in the reign, meaning his kingship. There was a real danger of his kingship. There was a real danger of his kingship. There was a real danger of it being dislocated and routed. End it being dislocated and routed. End it being dislocated and routed. End quote. quote. quote. At this point in the Alexander movie, At this point in the Alexander movie, At this point in the Alexander movie, well, no Alexander movie is actually well, no Alexander movie is actually well, no Alexander movie is actually kind of at the Battle of Visas, which is kind of at the Battle of Visas, which is kind of at the Battle of Visas, which is interesting considering it's the nearest interesting considering it's the nearest interesting considering it's the nearest run thing to disaster Alexander ever run thing to disaster Alexander ever run thing to disaster Alexander ever had. But at this point of the battle, had. But at this point of the battle, had. But at this point of the battle, there are two ways of looking at it.

there are two ways of looking at it. there are two ways of looking at it. Normally in our movie where Alexander's Normally in our movie where Alexander's Normally in our movie where Alexander's the hero here, you're worried this is a the hero here, you're worried this is a the hero here, you're worried this is a moment of great, you know, danger. It moment of great, you know, danger. It moment of great, you know, danger. It could go both ways. But if you're could go both ways. But if you're could go both ways. But if you're looking at this from the time period, looking at this from the time period, looking at this from the time period, from the point of view of anyone or most from the point of view of anyone or most from the point of view of anyone or most people in the Persian Empire and a lot people in the Persian Empire and a lot people in the Persian Empire and a lot of people in Greece and a lot of people of people in Greece and a lot of people of people in Greece and a lot of people elsewhere and Demos and people in elsewhere and Demos and people in elsewhere and Demos and people in Athens, this is the opportunity to Athens, this is the opportunity to Athens, this is the opportunity to destroy the person oppressing you. destroy the person oppressing you. destroy the person oppressing you. You're rooting for the Greek mercenaries You're rooting for the Greek mercenaries You're rooting for the Greek mercenaries just like the great king is rooting for just like the great king is rooting for just like the great king is rooting for his Greek mercenaries and they are his Greek mercenaries and they are his Greek mercenaries and they are fighting for their lives. remember what fighting for their lives. remember what fighting for their lives. remember what Alexander is doing to Greeks who fight Alexander is doing to Greeks who fight Alexander is doing to Greeks who fight on the other side. Even though the other on the other side. Even though the other on the other side. Even though the other side is really for Greek freedom in the side is really for Greek freedom in the side is really for Greek freedom in the case of people who would have been from case of people who would have been from case of people who would have been from places in Greece that don't like places in Greece that don't like places in Greece that don't like Alexander's thumb. How about if you're a Alexander's thumb. How about if you're a Alexander's thumb. How about if you're a thie and he destroyed your whole city, thie and he destroyed your whole city, thie and he destroyed your whole city, you're hoping the mercenaries here cut you're hoping the mercenaries here cut you're hoping the mercenaries here cut the Macedonian failank, this invincible the Macedonian failank, this invincible the Macedonian failank, this invincible Macedonian failank into pieces. And this Macedonian failank into pieces. And this Macedonian failank into pieces. And this is the best opportunity you're ever is the best opportunity you're ever is the best opportunity you're ever going to see anybody ever have of doing going to see anybody ever have of doing going to see anybody ever have of doing this to be honest. this to be honest. this to be honest. and they give it their best shot. It's and they give it their best shot. It's and they give it their best shot. It's unclear where they are sort of in unclear where they are sort of in unclear where they are sort of in relation to the steep wall, we're told, relation to the steep wall, we're told, relation to the steep wall, we're told, and the fortifications. The and the fortifications. The and the fortifications. The fortifications, I'm envisioning, you fortifications, I'm envisioning, you fortifications, I'm envisioning, you could envision it your own way, that could envision it your own way, that could envision it your own way, that what they did here was do it to channel what they did here was do it to channel what they did here was do it to channel them in places where the um crossing may them in places where the um crossing may them in places where the um crossing may have happened. they can put these, you have happened. they can put these, you have happened. they can put these, you know, tree trunks that are sharpened and know, tree trunks that are sharpened and know, tree trunks that are sharpened and create sort of narrow channels that the create sort of narrow channels that the create sort of narrow channels that the failank then has to go through where, failank then has to go through where, failank then has to go through where, you know, the Persians are waiting for you know, the Persians are waiting for you know, the Persians are waiting for them, including, and imagine it all the them, including, and imagine it all the them, including, and imagine it all the tons of missiles that are flying through

tons of missiles that are flying through tons of missiles that are flying through the air, the Persians are known for the air, the Persians are known for the air, the Persians are known for this. So, every bit of operation you're this. So, every bit of operation you're this. So, every bit of operation you're trying to accomplish here with all the trying to accomplish here with all the trying to accomplish here with all the other things that are impeding you, other things that are impeding you, other things that are impeding you, including that 18T spear and the fact including that 18T spear and the fact including that 18T spear and the fact you can't have a big shield, and they're you can't have a big shield, and they're you can't have a big shield, and they're throwing, the air is filled with this throwing, the air is filled with this throwing, the air is filled with this stuff. stuff. stuff. But very quickly the casualties mount in But very quickly the casualties mount in But very quickly the casualties mount in the failanks as the mercenaries somehow the failanks as the mercenaries somehow the failanks as the mercenaries somehow get their way into the flank of it and get their way into the flank of it and get their way into the flank of it and the officers are getting crushed. The the officers are getting crushed. The the officers are getting crushed. The leaders in the failanks are actually leaders in the failanks are actually leaders in the failanks are actually getting crushed. The Eisenhowers, getting crushed. The Eisenhowers, getting crushed. The Eisenhowers, MacArthur's and Patton that are fighting MacArthur's and Patton that are fighting MacArthur's and Patton that are fighting in the failanks are getting crushed. You in the failanks are getting crushed. You in the failanks are getting crushed. You know, famous names go down quickly. know, famous names go down quickly. know, famous names go down quickly. mentioned by name is the son of Salucas, mentioned by name is the son of Salucas, mentioned by name is the son of Salucas, one of Alexander's good friends and a one of Alexander's good friends and a one of Alexander's good friends and a successor who founded a successor who founded a successor who founded a multi-generational dynasty in the Middle multi-generational dynasty in the Middle multi-generational dynasty in the Middle East. His name Tammy. No confusion East. His name Tammy. No confusion East. His name Tammy. No confusion there, but let's remember Tommy is a there, but let's remember Tommy is a there, but let's remember Tommy is a little like Mike or Dan for that matter little like Mike or Dan for that matter little like Mike or Dan for that matter in the ancient world. His son Tommy just in the ancient world. His son Tommy just in the ancient world. His son Tommy just happens to be the unlucky guy, the happens to be the unlucky guy, the happens to be the unlucky guy, the unlucky officer who's in command of the unlucky officer who's in command of the unlucky officer who's in command of the failanks battalion that gets hit in the failanks battalion that gets hit in the failanks battalion that gets hit in the flank by the Persian king's Greek flank by the Persian king's Greek flank by the Persian king's Greek mercenaries. And every account of this mercenaries. And every account of this mercenaries. And every account of this battle you will read is somewhat battle you will read is somewhat battle you will read is somewhat different from each other. Or I like the different from each other. Or I like the different from each other. Or I like the way historian Frank Naiden in soldier way historian Frank Naiden in soldier way historian Frank Naiden in soldier priest and god describes this moment priest and god describes this moment priest and god describes this moment when talmy's failank battalion gets when talmy's failank battalion gets when talmy's failank battalion gets speared in the flank by the the speared in the flank by the the speared in the flank by the the hoplights of the great king and they'll hoplights of the great king and they'll hoplights of the great king and they'll be using a 9 to 12t spear which I love be using a 9 to 12t spear which I love be using a 9 to 12t spear which I love is described as a short spear by Niden is described as a short spear by Niden is described as a short spear by Niden but that is relative compared to the 15

but that is relative compared to the 15 but that is relative compared to the 15 to 19 ft pike of the Macedonians and to 19 ft pike of the Macedonians and to 19 ft pike of the Macedonians and Frank Niden writes quote quote. Frank Niden writes quote quote. Frank Niden writes quote quote. Tommy now stood some dozens of yards Tommy now stood some dozens of yards Tommy now stood some dozens of yards away from the Greeks. He marched to the away from the Greeks. He marched to the away from the Greeks. He marched to the right of his men, hurrying them along, right of his men, hurrying them along, right of his men, hurrying them along, conspicuous in his purple cloak. The conspicuous in his purple cloak. The conspicuous in his purple cloak. The Greeks smashed into them. Their short Greeks smashed into them. Their short Greeks smashed into them. Their short spears, haha, caught the Macedonians in spears, haha, caught the Macedonians in spears, haha, caught the Macedonians in the side. As the Macedonian officers the side. As the Macedonian officers the side. As the Macedonian officers stepped forward to rally their stepped forward to rally their stepped forward to rally their companies, they made themselves targets companies, they made themselves targets companies, they made themselves targets and were stabbed. Tommy fell dead. So and were stabbed. Tommy fell dead. So and were stabbed. Tommy fell dead. So did one officer after another. When did one officer after another. When did one officer after another. When junior officers stepped forward to junior officers stepped forward to junior officers stepped forward to reform the companies, the Greeks speared reform the companies, the Greeks speared reform the companies, the Greeks speared them too. Square by square, the them too. Square by square, the them too. Square by square, the companies disintegrated. Most of Talmy's companies disintegrated. Most of Talmy's companies disintegrated. Most of Talmy's 100 or so officers were now slain, 100 or so officers were now slain, 100 or so officers were now slain, fatally wounded, or trampled to death. fatally wounded, or trampled to death. fatally wounded, or trampled to death. End quote. End quote. End quote. So, here's the crisis moment. When was So, here's the crisis moment. When was So, here's the crisis moment. When was the last time the failanks of Macedonia the last time the failanks of Macedonia the last time the failanks of Macedonia had been defeated? Well, didn't happen had been defeated? Well, didn't happen had been defeated? Well, didn't happen at any point in Alexander's career. And at any point in Alexander's career. And at any point in Alexander's career. And while all this is going on, you could while all this is going on, you could while all this is going on, you could drive yourself crazy diving down the drive yourself crazy diving down the drive yourself crazy diving down the rabbit hole trying to figure out what's rabbit hole trying to figure out what's rabbit hole trying to figure out what's going on to the failank's left, right?

going on to the failank's left, right? going on to the failank's left, right? The people, you know, at the sea where The people, you know, at the sea where The people, you know, at the sea where the big Persian sledgehammer, you know, the big Persian sledgehammer, you know, the big Persian sledgehammer, you know, is waiting to fall on poor Parminio and is waiting to fall on poor Parminio and is waiting to fall on poor Parminio and his cavalry and some Thrians and some his cavalry and some Thrians and some his cavalry and some Thrians and some archers and a bunch of people who archers and a bunch of people who archers and a bunch of people who shouldn't be able to deal with them. shouldn't be able to deal with them. shouldn't be able to deal with them. What's going on over there? What's going on over there? What's going on over there? Well, good luck figuring it out. You Well, good luck figuring it out. You Well, good luck figuring it out. You will find yourself being confronted at will find yourself being confronted at will find yourself being confronted at some point with Palibius's math, which some point with Palibius's math, which some point with Palibius's math, which is, you know, then interpreted by a guy is, you know, then interpreted by a guy is, you know, then interpreted by a guy like Hans Delbrook and others where like Hans Delbrook and others where like Hans Delbrook and others where they're trying to figure out how many they're trying to figure out how many they're trying to figure out how many cavalry you can even get into this cavalry you can even get into this cavalry you can even get into this space. And if you're cramming a bunch of space. And if you're cramming a bunch of space. And if you're cramming a bunch of cavalry in there, which is used to these cavalry in there, which is used to these cavalry in there, which is used to these flowing battles and backs and forth and, flowing battles and backs and forth and, flowing battles and backs and forth and, you know, looking like uh kind of a you know, looking like uh kind of a you know, looking like uh kind of a dance between large formations of dance between large formations of dance between large formations of cavalry. Well, what do you do if you cavalry. Well, what do you do if you cavalry. Well, what do you do if you don't have any space for that? I mean, don't have any space for that? I mean, don't have any space for that? I mean, here's the Delbrookian calculation of here's the Delbrookian calculation of here's the Delbrookian calculation of Palibius's numbers of how many, you Palibius's numbers of how many, you Palibius's numbers of how many, you know, how much space just a mere 5,000 know, how much space just a mere 5,000 know, how much space just a mere 5,000 cavalry would take. And all the ancient cavalry would take. And all the ancient cavalry would take. And all the ancient sources have quite a bit more cavalry sources have quite a bit more cavalry sources have quite a bit more cavalry than that in that zone. And Delbrook than that in that zone. And Delbrook than that in that zone. And Delbrook writes, quote, Palibius estimates 800 writes, quote, Palibius estimates 800 writes, quote, Palibius estimates 800 horsemen per stadium. That's a unit of horsemen per stadium. That's a unit of horsemen per stadium. That's a unit of ancient Greek measurement with the ancient Greek measurement with the ancient Greek measurement with the deepest normal formation of eight horses deepest normal formation of eight horses deepest normal formation of eight horses and therefore 6 ft per horse with and therefore 6 ft per horse with and therefore 6 ft per horse with intervals. It is also probable, however, intervals. It is also probable, however, intervals. It is also probable, however, that they were sometimes drawn up that they were sometimes drawn up that they were sometimes drawn up deeper, and they may very well have been deeper, and they may very well have been deeper, and they may very well have been much closer together. 5,000 horsemen, he much closer together. 5,000 horsemen, he much closer together. 5,000 horsemen, he calculates, eight horses deep with 6 ft calculates, eight horses deep with 6 ft calculates, eight horses deep with 6 ft to a horse would extend even without to a horse would extend even without to a horse would extend even without intervals more than a kilometer. A intervals more than a kilometer. A intervals more than a kilometer. A kilometer is something more than a half kilometer is something more than a half kilometer is something more than a half mile. So, if that's what 5,000 horsemen mile. So, if that's what 5,000 horsemen mile. So, if that's what 5,000 horsemen on one side is going to be like, well,

on one side is going to be like, well, on one side is going to be like, well, do the math. That's how these Prussian do the math. That's how these Prussian do the math. That's how these Prussian sorts of guys from 100 years ago figured sorts of guys from 100 years ago figured sorts of guys from 100 years ago figured out their battlefield situations. And out their battlefield situations. And out their battlefield situations. And the math doesn't add up to a lot of the math doesn't add up to a lot of the math doesn't add up to a lot of movement on that flank. And maybe the movement on that flank. And maybe the movement on that flank. And maybe the best way to view it because something best way to view it because something best way to view it because something doesn't happen there. How about that? doesn't happen there. How about that? doesn't happen there. How about that? That's a Yogi Bara issue. Something That's a Yogi Bara issue. Something That's a Yogi Bara issue. Something doesn't happen there. And it becomes one doesn't happen there. And it becomes one doesn't happen there. And it becomes one of those Sherlock Holmes dog that didn't of those Sherlock Holmes dog that didn't of those Sherlock Holmes dog that didn't bark sort of deal. And you start asking bark sort of deal. And you start asking bark sort of deal. And you start asking yourself, if the Persians have this yourself, if the Persians have this yourself, if the Persians have this mammoth numbers advantage, maybe even a mammoth numbers advantage, maybe even a mammoth numbers advantage, maybe even a qualitative equal with the Macedonian qualitative equal with the Macedonian qualitative equal with the Macedonian side, why aren't they blowing through side, why aren't they blowing through side, why aren't they blowing through here like the sledgehammer head should here like the sledgehammer head should here like the sledgehammer head should be doing? And it's possible that it's be doing? And it's possible that it's be doing? And it's possible that it's because there's an echelon sort of deal because there's an echelon sort of deal because there's an echelon sort of deal happening here. We mentioned it in happening here. We mentioned it in happening here. We mentioned it in another battle, didn't we, where we said another battle, didn't we, where we said another battle, didn't we, where we said it's like a wave crashing on a beach and it's like a wave crashing on a beach and it's like a wave crashing on a beach and the wave could be breaking way down the the wave could be breaking way down the the wave could be breaking way down the coast, whereas it's still cresting down coast, whereas it's still cresting down coast, whereas it's still cresting down by you. And maybe Alexander is winning by you. And maybe Alexander is winning by you. And maybe Alexander is winning the battle on the far mountain side of the battle on the far mountain side of the battle on the far mountain side of the flank here before the sledgehammer the flank here before the sledgehammer the flank here before the sledgehammer of the Persian assault really gets of the Persian assault really gets of the Persian assault really gets going.

going. going. But if the middle falls apart, none of But if the middle falls apart, none of But if the middle falls apart, none of that matters. The middle needs to call that matters. The middle needs to call that matters. The middle needs to call for help, and apparently does. There's a for help, and apparently does. There's a for help, and apparently does. There's a 911 red alert put out in the form of a 911 red alert put out in the form of a 911 red alert put out in the form of a trumpet that also according to Frank trumpet that also according to Frank trumpet that also according to Frank Niden and he writes about the moment Niden and he writes about the moment Niden and he writes about the moment where the failank calls for help and he where the failank calls for help and he where the failank calls for help and he says quote surviving officers sounded says quote surviving officers sounded says quote surviving officers sounded trumpets calling men to regroup and trumpets calling men to regroup and trumpets calling men to regroup and other units to help. Alexander's nearby other units to help. Alexander's nearby other units to help. Alexander's nearby strike force heard the call better than strike force heard the call better than strike force heard the call better than Parminio's wing. Alexander halted his Parminio's wing. Alexander halted his Parminio's wing. Alexander halted his advance on Das and turned to observe the advance on Das and turned to observe the advance on Das and turned to observe the fighting some hundreds of yards behind fighting some hundreds of yards behind fighting some hundreds of yards behind him. Cenus or Coinos, commander of the him. Cenus or Coinos, commander of the him. Cenus or Coinos, commander of the front half of the Failanks, turned and front half of the Failanks, turned and front half of the Failanks, turned and watched also. He was closer to the watched also. He was closer to the watched also. He was closer to the belleaguered regiment. In the Persian belleaguered regiment. In the Persian belleaguered regiment. In the Persian army, a man in Coinos's position, would army, a man in Coinos's position, would army, a man in Coinos's position, would have waited for orders from the king. have waited for orders from the king. have waited for orders from the king. Not in this army. As Alexander watched, Not in this army. As Alexander watched, Not in this army. As Alexander watched, Kinos gave the order for his regiment Kinos gave the order for his regiment Kinos gave the order for his regiment and those beside it to turn around and and those beside it to turn around and and those beside it to turn around and head toward the fighting. Once Coinos head toward the fighting. Once Coinos head toward the fighting. Once Coinos arrived on the scene, he positioned his arrived on the scene, he positioned his arrived on the scene, he positioned his men so that they could hit the Greeks on men so that they could hit the Greeks on men so that they could hit the Greeks on the side. What the Greeks had done to the side. What the Greeks had done to the side. What the Greeks had done to Tammy, Coinus now did to them. End Tammy, Coinus now did to them. End Tammy, Coinus now did to them. End quote.

quote. quote. Now when Niden is referring to what Now when Niden is referring to what Now when Niden is referring to what Alexander is doing by this time Alexander is doing by this time Alexander is doing by this time Alexander is beginning with a couple of Alexander is beginning with a couple of Alexander is beginning with a couple of units of infantry failank guys too to units of infantry failank guys too to units of infantry failank guys too to make his way slanted towards the great make his way slanted towards the great make his way slanted towards the great king's chariot in the middle. This is king's chariot in the middle. This is king's chariot in the middle. This is where, as we said earlier, the problem where, as we said earlier, the problem where, as we said earlier, the problem with the theory that is with the with the theory that is with the with the theory that is with the Hypaspus and not with the companions, Hypaspus and not with the companions, Hypaspus and not with the companions, right? On foot instead of by cavalry at right? On foot instead of by cavalry at right? On foot instead of by cavalry at the initial part of this battle comes the initial part of this battle comes the initial part of this battle comes into play because where's the time for into play because where's the time for into play because where's the time for the grooms to bring all the horses right the grooms to bring all the horses right the grooms to bring all the horses right thousands of horses at least a thousand thousands of horses at least a thousand thousands of horses at least a thousand closer to two across the river behind closer to two across the river behind closer to two across the river behind Alexander's foot advance so that they Alexander's foot advance so that they Alexander's foot advance so that they can now mount up again. space is a can now mount up again. space is a can now mount up again. space is a priority here and we're dealing with a priority here and we're dealing with a priority here and we're dealing with a crowded situation at this point. I was crowded situation at this point. I was crowded situation at this point. I was looking up because I was fascinated by looking up because I was fascinated by looking up because I was fascinated by it whether there was a kind of law of it whether there was a kind of law of it whether there was a kind of law of thermodynamics, hydrodnamics, one of thermodynamics, hydrodnamics, one of thermodynamics, hydrodnamics, one of those kinds of things for crowds of those kinds of things for crowds of those kinds of things for crowds of people. And it was interesting that I people. And it was interesting that I people. And it was interesting that I found out there was found out there was found out there was and the term connected with this I and the term connected with this I and the term connected with this I thought it was a fascinating term is thought it was a fascinating term is thought it was a fascinating term is that crowds behaved like thinking that crowds behaved like thinking that crowds behaved like thinking fluids.

fluids. fluids. And so the people packed into this small And so the people packed into this small And so the people packed into this small space are a key component in what's space are a key component in what's space are a key component in what's going on. For example, when you think of going on. For example, when you think of going on. For example, when you think of Alexander pushing the Persians at the Alexander pushing the Persians at the Alexander pushing the Persians at the front and how a maneuver like that would front and how a maneuver like that would front and how a maneuver like that would ripple like an accordion all the way ripple like an accordion all the way ripple like an accordion all the way down the ranks and people would get down the ranks and people would get down the ranks and people would get shoved backwards. And the ancient shoved backwards. And the ancient shoved backwards. And the ancient writers uh in military affairs in lots writers uh in military affairs in lots writers uh in military affairs in lots of different battles would talk about of different battles would talk about of different battles would talk about how often the crowdedness would get to how often the crowdedness would get to how often the crowdedness would get to such a degree that people couldn't raise such a degree that people couldn't raise such a degree that people couldn't raise their arms. You know, you're in such a their arms. You know, you're in such a their arms. You know, you're in such a packed group of people. And we've all packed group of people. And we've all packed group of people. And we've all been in crowds like that. You couldn't been in crowds like that. You couldn't been in crowds like that. You couldn't get your arm up if you wanted to. And if get your arm up if you wanted to. And if get your arm up if you wanted to. And if you did get it up, you couldn't get it you did get it up, you couldn't get it you did get it up, you couldn't get it back down again. Well, how would you use back down again. Well, how would you use back down again. Well, how would you use a weapon? This is actually part of what a weapon? This is actually part of what a weapon? This is actually part of what armies want to do sometimes to each armies want to do sometimes to each armies want to do sometimes to each other. I mean, shove them so close other. I mean, shove them so close other. I mean, shove them so close together that they become useless as together that they become useless as together that they become useless as fighters. The Roman legionaries used to fighters. The Roman legionaries used to fighters. The Roman legionaries used to have to have something like 6 ft of have to have something like 6 ft of have to have something like 6 ft of space around them to do what they wanted space around them to do what they wanted space around them to do what they wanted to do. So, you can see how something to do. So, you can see how something to do. So, you can see how something like this would be an impediment. And like this would be an impediment. And like this would be an impediment. And I'm trying and I've never been able to I'm trying and I've never been able to I'm trying and I've never been able to mentally envision it. Trying to imagine mentally envision it. Trying to imagine mentally envision it. Trying to imagine how the horses play into all this how the horses play into all this how the horses play into all this because where are they in the crowds?

because where are they in the crowds? because where are they in the crowds? And I mean, the whole thing has always And I mean, the whole thing has always And I mean, the whole thing has always been tough for me to envision. But I'm been tough for me to envision. But I'm been tough for me to envision. But I'm trying to imagine that as these crowds trying to imagine that as these crowds trying to imagine that as these crowds are coming together that people are are coming together that people are are coming together that people are slowly making their way through them. I slowly making their way through them. I slowly making their way through them. I mean, again, if you were in a crowd of mean, again, if you were in a crowd of mean, again, if you were in a crowd of people and somebody needed to get to the people and somebody needed to get to the people and somebody needed to get to the front of the crowd to deliver a message, front of the crowd to deliver a message, front of the crowd to deliver a message, think about how they would work their think about how they would work their think about how they would work their way through it slowly but surely. Now, way through it slowly but surely. Now, way through it slowly but surely. Now, if they were killing the people in front if they were killing the people in front if they were killing the people in front of them as they did it, well, that's of them as they did it, well, that's of them as they did it, well, that's another dynamic entirely, too. And that another dynamic entirely, too. And that another dynamic entirely, too. And that seems to be what it's like. It's like seems to be what it's like. It's like seems to be what it's like. It's like carving your way towards a destination. carving your way towards a destination. carving your way towards a destination. In this story, the destination is the In this story, the destination is the In this story, the destination is the great king of Persia. And the person great king of Persia. And the person great king of Persia. And the person carving his way inch by inch towards him carving his way inch by inch towards him carving his way inch by inch towards him is Alexander. is Alexander. is Alexander. And he is so conspicuous in his dress as And he is so conspicuous in his dress as And he is so conspicuous in his dress as the great king of Persia is too. We the great king of Persia is too. We the great king of Persia is too. We explain that they want to be explain that they want to be explain that they want to be conspicuous. But that means everybody conspicuous. But that means everybody conspicuous. But that means everybody sees him. If you happen to have a nice sees him. If you happen to have a nice sees him. If you happen to have a nice little javelin in your hand you're not little javelin in your hand you're not little javelin in your hand you're not using at the moment. Wouldn't you fling using at the moment. Wouldn't you fling using at the moment. Wouldn't you fling it over there? I mean, it's crazy to it over there? I mean, it's crazy to it over there? I mean, it's crazy to think about how long you're caught in think about how long you're caught in think about how long you're caught in this crowd and people are after you. But this crowd and people are after you. But this crowd and people are after you. But at a certain point, he's approaching the at a certain point, he's approaching the at a certain point, he's approaching the great king. And we come to the great king. And we come to the great king. And we come to the interesting part of this story where, as interesting part of this story where, as interesting part of this story where, as we said earlier, you've got the the we said earlier, you've got the the we said earlier, you've got the the actual head of state right there in actual head of state right there in actual head of state right there in front of you. I mean, that the war is front of you. I mean, that the war is front of you. I mean, that the war is between, you know, the the president of between, you know, the the president of between, you know, the the president of one country today and the prime minister one country today and the prime minister one country today and the prime minister of another. Well, here they are facing of another. Well, here they are facing of another. Well, here they are facing off, Churchill and Hitler, off, Churchill and Hitler, off, Churchill and Hitler, yards from each other.

yards from each other. yards from each other. And in the Vulgate tradition, the And in the Vulgate tradition, the And in the Vulgate tradition, the Diodorises and the courteouses and Diodorises and the courteouses and Diodorises and the courteouses and stuff, they like to get much more uh stuff, they like to get much more uh stuff, they like to get much more uh sort of descriptive about it all, tropes sort of descriptive about it all, tropes sort of descriptive about it all, tropes and everything else. So remember, and and everything else. So remember, and and everything else. So remember, and you know, these guys weren't there. Some you know, these guys weren't there. Some you know, these guys weren't there. Some of this stuff is standard fair, but it of this stuff is standard fair, but it of this stuff is standard fair, but it does color it up for us a little bit in does color it up for us a little bit in does color it up for us a little bit in my wonderful Robin Waterfield my wonderful Robin Waterfield my wonderful Robin Waterfield translation of Diodoris. Diodoris translation of Diodoris. Diodoris translation of Diodoris. Diodoris explains colorfully what this moment is explains colorfully what this moment is explains colorfully what this moment is like and says, quote, "The officers in like and says, quote, "The officers in like and says, quote, "The officers in command of each unit led from the front command of each unit led from the front command of each unit led from the front and by their example stiffened the and by their example stiffened the and by their example stiffened the resolve of their men. The scene before a resolve of their men. The scene before a resolve of their men. The scene before a spectator's eyes would therefore have spectator's eyes would therefore have spectator's eyes would therefore have been one of men wounded and being been one of men wounded and being been one of men wounded and being wounded in countless different ways and wounded in countless different ways and wounded in countless different ways and struggles of every imaginable kind struggles of every imaginable kind struggles of every imaginable kind erupting on the field in the pursuit of erupting on the field in the pursuit of erupting on the field in the pursuit of victory. When the Persian Axiopath, a victory. When the Persian Axiopath, a victory. When the Persian Axiopath, a brother of Das, who was renowned for his brother of Das, who was renowned for his brother of Das, who was renowned for his courage, saw that Alexander was making courage, saw that Alexander was making courage, saw that Alexander was making for Das in a seemingly unstoppable for Das in a seemingly unstoppable for Das in a seemingly unstoppable charge. Let me stop you here. Or a slow charge. Let me stop you here. Or a slow charge. Let me stop you here. Or a slow carving his way through the crowd toward carving his way through the crowd toward carving his way through the crowd toward the great king. Theodoris continues. He the great king. Theodoris continues. He the great king. Theodoris continues. He resolved to share his brother's fate. He resolved to share his brother's fate. He resolved to share his brother's fate. He collected the best of the horsemen in collected the best of the horsemen in collected the best of the horsemen in his command, and with them at his side, his command, and with them at his side, his command, and with them at his side, he swooped down on Alexander. Certain he swooped down on Alexander. Certain he swooped down on Alexander. Certain that this demonstration of brotherly that this demonstration of brotherly that this demonstration of brotherly love would bring him great fame among love would bring him great fame among love would bring him great fame among the Persians, he fought in front of the Persians, he fought in front of the Persians, he fought in front of Das's chariot, engaging the enemy Das's chariot, engaging the enemy Das's chariot, engaging the enemy fearlessly, and such was his skill that fearlessly, and such was his skill that fearlessly, and such was his skill that many fell dead before him. But Alexander many fell dead before him. But Alexander many fell dead before him. But Alexander had the advantage in terms of valor, and had the advantage in terms of valor, and had the advantage in terms of valor, and soon a great pile of corpses was heaped

soon a great pile of corpses was heaped soon a great pile of corpses was heaped around Das's chariot. For in his longing around Das's chariot. For in his longing around Das's chariot. For in his longing to break through to the Persian king, to break through to the Persian king, to break through to the Persian king, every Macedonian contended passionately every Macedonian contended passionately every Macedonian contended passionately with his comrades and gave no thought to with his comrades and gave no thought to with his comrades and gave no thought to personal safety." End quote. personal safety." End quote. personal safety." End quote. Diodoris says in this pushing forward Diodoris says in this pushing forward Diodoris says in this pushing forward and killing towards Das's chariot, and killing towards Das's chariot, and killing towards Das's chariot, Alexander was wounded in the thigh. This Alexander was wounded in the thigh. This Alexander was wounded in the thigh. This is a longunning part of the story that is a longunning part of the story that is a longunning part of the story that some sources say and some don't. some sources say and some don't. some sources say and some don't. Interestingly enough, considering we Interestingly enough, considering we Interestingly enough, considering we talked about this at the battle of the talked about this at the battle of the talked about this at the battle of the Granicus 2, and I often do, by the way, Granicus 2, and I often do, by the way, Granicus 2, and I often do, by the way, because I think it's key, one of the key because I think it's key, one of the key because I think it's key, one of the key variables on an ancient battlefield, but variables on an ancient battlefield, but variables on an ancient battlefield, but uh once again, the psychology of animals uh once again, the psychology of animals uh once again, the psychology of animals comes into play. And Diodoris writes, comes into play. And Diodoris writes, comes into play. And Diodoris writes, quote, "The horses yolked to Das's quote, "The horses yolked to Das's quote, "The horses yolked to Das's chariot received multiple wounds, and chariot received multiple wounds, and chariot received multiple wounds, and they were so startled by the number of they were so startled by the number of they were so startled by the number of corpses piling up around them that they corpses piling up around them that they corpses piling up around them that they attempted to shake off their bits and attempted to shake off their bits and attempted to shake off their bits and almost bore Das off into the midst of almost bore Das off into the midst of almost bore Das off into the midst of the enemy." End quote.

the enemy." End quote. the enemy." End quote. The ancient writer Curtis is also uh The ancient writer Curtis is also uh The ancient writer Curtis is also uh sort of part of the same tradition as sort of part of the same tradition as sort of part of the same tradition as Diodoris and has a version of that story Diodoris and has a version of that story Diodoris and has a version of that story and he says quote by this time Das's and he says quote by this time Das's and he says quote by this time Das's horses had been pierced by lances and horses had been pierced by lances and horses had been pierced by lances and were distracted with pain. They had were distracted with pain. They had were distracted with pain. They had begun to toss the yolk and were at the begun to toss the yolk and were at the begun to toss the yolk and were at the point of hurling the king from his point of hurling the king from his point of hurling the king from his chariot. End quote. I read an chariot. End quote. I read an chariot. End quote. I read an interesting theory a while back because interesting theory a while back because interesting theory a while back because the whole horse thing is so interesting the whole horse thing is so interesting the whole horse thing is so interesting to me and it was about how they might to me and it was about how they might to me and it was about how they might have trained horses to do things that have trained horses to do things that have trained horses to do things that people don't think they should do like people don't think they should do like people don't think they should do like charge solid objects and the suggestion charge solid objects and the suggestion charge solid objects and the suggestion was that they would have these horses was that they would have these horses was that they would have these horses and train them to charge these ranks and and train them to charge these ranks and and train them to charge these ranks and then the ranks would always open up in then the ranks would always open up in then the ranks would always open up in training. So they would get this idea training. So they would get this idea training. So they would get this idea that oh that's what they'll always do that oh that's what they'll always do that oh that's what they'll always do and then in a real battle they would you and then in a real battle they would you and then in a real battle they would you know assume that the people in front of know assume that the people in front of know assume that the people in front of them with the pointy spears would move them with the pointy spears would move them with the pointy spears would move and they didn't. And in that theory, a and they didn't. And in that theory, a and they didn't. And in that theory, a horse is a oneshot weapon because it horse is a oneshot weapon because it horse is a oneshot weapon because it will only do that once. And if it will only do that once. And if it will only do that once. And if it survives, it'll never do that again. So survives, it'll never do that again. So survives, it'll never do that again. So psychologically, you have to train sort psychologically, you have to train sort psychologically, you have to train sort of the horse to do things it wouldn't of the horse to do things it wouldn't of the horse to do things it wouldn't otherwise do because the horse otherwise do because the horse otherwise do because the horse psychology is key. Well, how long would psychology is key. Well, how long would psychology is key. Well, how long would one expect chariot horses to sit there one expect chariot horses to sit there one expect chariot horses to sit there in the midst of what I just described in the midst of what I just described in the midst of what I just described and not lose it? Heck, people lose it and not lose it? Heck, people lose it and not lose it? Heck, people lose it all the time. all those people that all the time. all those people that all the time. all those people that would run away before they even came would run away before they even came would run away before they even came into combat and those poor horses find into combat and those poor horses find into combat and those poor horses find themselves where they do. Well, one way themselves where they do. Well, one way themselves where they do. Well, one way or another, it's an integral part of the or another, it's an integral part of the or another, it's an integral part of the story that um they're not going to stick story that um they're not going to stick story that um they're not going to stick around. And can you imagine if they go around. And can you imagine if they go around. And can you imagine if they go crazy uh with the great king of Persia

crazy uh with the great king of Persia crazy uh with the great king of Persia in the chariot pulled by them? in the chariot pulled by them? in the chariot pulled by them? Aryan has it a much more cowardly move Aryan has it a much more cowardly move Aryan has it a much more cowardly move and has the great king deciding he's got and has the great king deciding he's got and has the great king deciding he's got better places to be. And in my Aubrey better places to be. And in my Aubrey better places to be. And in my Aubrey Delenor translation of Aryan, Aryan Delenor translation of Aryan, Aryan Delenor translation of Aryan, Aryan says, quote, "The moment the Persian says, quote, "The moment the Persian says, quote, "The moment the Persian left went to pieces under Alexander's left went to pieces under Alexander's left went to pieces under Alexander's attack, and Das in his war chariot saw attack, and Das in his war chariot saw attack, and Das in his war chariot saw that it was cut off, he incontinently that it was cut off, he incontinently that it was cut off, he incontinently fled. Indeed, he led the race for fled. Indeed, he led the race for fled. Indeed, he led the race for safety, keeping to his chariot as long safety, keeping to his chariot as long safety, keeping to his chariot as long as there was smooth ground to travel on, as there was smooth ground to travel on, as there was smooth ground to travel on, he was forced to abandon it when the he was forced to abandon it when the he was forced to abandon it when the ravines and other obstructions barred ravines and other obstructions barred ravines and other obstructions barred his way. Then dropping his shield and his way. Then dropping his shield and his way. Then dropping his shield and stripping off his mantle and even stripping off his mantle and even stripping off his mantle and even leaving his bow in the war chariot, he leaving his bow in the war chariot, he leaving his bow in the war chariot, he leapt upon his horse and rode for his leapt upon his horse and rode for his leapt upon his horse and rode for his life." End quote. life." End quote. life." End quote. So the Aryan version of the Alexander So the Aryan version of the Alexander So the Aryan version of the Alexander movie definitely portrays the great king movie definitely portrays the great king movie definitely portrays the great king of Persia as a coward uh as opposed to a of Persia as a coward uh as opposed to a of Persia as a coward uh as opposed to a victim of thinking fluids, but in this victim of thinking fluids, but in this victim of thinking fluids, but in this case horse thinking fluids.

case horse thinking fluids. case horse thinking fluids. It matters not because once the great It matters not because once the great It matters not because once the great king uh flees the battlefield and this king uh flees the battlefield and this king uh flees the battlefield and this also very common in in ancient warfare also very common in in ancient warfare also very common in in ancient warfare uh everyone around him starts to run too uh everyone around him starts to run too uh everyone around him starts to run too and this sets off a chain reaction and and this sets off a chain reaction and and this sets off a chain reaction and kind of explains what's going on with kind of explains what's going on with kind of explains what's going on with the Persian sledgehammer back at the at the Persian sledgehammer back at the at the Persian sledgehammer back at the at the seaside part of this battle because the seaside part of this battle because the seaside part of this battle because it sounds like it's just getting going it sounds like it's just getting going it sounds like it's just getting going and into it and and there's a lot of and into it and and there's a lot of and into it and and there's a lot of fighting going on and then they see that fighting going on and then they see that fighting going on and then they see that the great king is fleeing. and the army the great king is fleeing. and the army the great king is fleeing. and the army is sort of uh retreating like that wave is sort of uh retreating like that wave is sort of uh retreating like that wave pulling back to the ocean and they pulling back to the ocean and they pulling back to the ocean and they decide to go with it too and now the decide to go with it too and now the decide to go with it too and now the killing really gets bad. killing really gets bad. killing really gets bad. This is where the crowd dynamics really This is where the crowd dynamics really This is where the crowd dynamics really comes into play. And anybody who's a comes into play. And anybody who's a comes into play. And anybody who's a person who studies things like escape person who studies things like escape person who studies things like escape routes in a crowded theater, if there's routes in a crowded theater, if there's routes in a crowded theater, if there's a fire, would understand what's going to a fire, would understand what's going to a fire, would understand what's going to happen here. Because in this sort of happen here. Because in this sort of happen here. Because in this sort of terrain, there's only a few passes that terrain, there's only a few passes that terrain, there's only a few passes that will allow anyone to get away from will allow anyone to get away from will allow anyone to get away from what's happening here. And they are what's happening here. And they are what's happening here. And they are nowhere near wide enough to deal with nowhere near wide enough to deal with nowhere near wide enough to deal with the number of people that are going to the number of people that are going to the number of people that are going to try to use them. And the metaphorical try to use them. And the metaphorical try to use them. And the metaphorical fire, the pursuing, in this case mostly fire, the pursuing, in this case mostly fire, the pursuing, in this case mostly Alexandrian cavalry is burning them as Alexandrian cavalry is burning them as Alexandrian cavalry is burning them as they run. And the second they have to they run. And the second they have to they run. And the second they have to slow down cuz once again you reach a slow down cuz once again you reach a slow down cuz once again you reach a bottleneck in the way out and it's a bottleneck in the way out and it's a bottleneck in the way out and it's a giant crowd, they are killing you from giant crowd, they are killing you from giant crowd, they are killing you from behind. And there is no quicker and more behind. And there is no quicker and more behind. And there is no quicker and more onesided way to die than that way.

onesided way to die than that way. onesided way to die than that way. There have been some wonderful There have been some wonderful There have been some wonderful recreations as we had mentioned earlier recreations as we had mentioned earlier recreations as we had mentioned earlier showing how routes may have happened and showing how routes may have happened and showing how routes may have happened and it's interesting to see how certain it's interesting to see how certain it's interesting to see how certain people run ahead of the pursuers and people run ahead of the pursuers and people run ahead of the pursuers and engage the people running away um you engage the people running away um you engage the people running away um you know at speed whereas other small groups know at speed whereas other small groups know at speed whereas other small groups of people running away decide to turn of people running away decide to turn of people running away decide to turn around and form a little block together. around and form a little block together. around and form a little block together. I mean, there's a whole bunch of I mean, there's a whole bunch of I mean, there's a whole bunch of dynamics going on, but once this becomes dynamics going on, but once this becomes dynamics going on, but once this becomes a rush toward the exits and everybody a rush toward the exits and everybody a rush toward the exits and everybody has their back turned trying to push has their back turned trying to push has their back turned trying to push their way through, you are nothing but their way through, you are nothing but their way through, you are nothing but corpses waiting to happen. corpses waiting to happen. corpses waiting to happen. And the killing is immense. and the um And the killing is immense. and the um And the killing is immense. and the um Alexandrian Alexandrian Alexandrian compatriate, a guy who starts his own compatriate, a guy who starts his own compatriate, a guy who starts his own dynasty in um Egypt is descendant is dynasty in um Egypt is descendant is dynasty in um Egypt is descendant is Cleopatra Talamy, who's one of the main Cleopatra Talamy, who's one of the main Cleopatra Talamy, who's one of the main sources for um some of these ancient sources for um some of these ancient sources for um some of these ancient writers of ours. He claims to have writers of ours. He claims to have writers of ours. He claims to have crossed a ravine crossed a ravine crossed a ravine absolutely full of dead bodies.

absolutely full of dead bodies. absolutely full of dead bodies. And a bunch of these people were killed And a bunch of these people were killed And a bunch of these people were killed before the pursuers ever even got to before the pursuers ever even got to before the pursuers ever even got to them. The crowd itself becomes lethal. them. The crowd itself becomes lethal. them. The crowd itself becomes lethal. As Diodoris points out, this is from my As Diodoris points out, this is from my As Diodoris points out, this is from my C. Bradford Wells translation of the C. Bradford Wells translation of the C. Bradford Wells translation of the ancient historian. And he picks up the ancient historian. And he picks up the ancient historian. And he picks up the story from the moment where the Persian story from the moment where the Persian story from the moment where the Persian king exits his chariot, gets on his king exits his chariot, gets on his king exits his chariot, gets on his escape horse, the lone horse that he can escape horse, the lone horse that he can escape horse, the lone horse that he can ride out of there, and says, quote, ride out of there, and says, quote, ride out of there, and says, quote, seeing their king in this state, the seeing their king in this state, the seeing their king in this state, the Persians with him turned to flee. And as Persians with him turned to flee. And as Persians with him turned to flee. And as each adjacent unit in turn did the same, each adjacent unit in turn did the same, each adjacent unit in turn did the same, the whole Persian cavalry was soon in the whole Persian cavalry was soon in the whole Persian cavalry was soon in full retreat. As their route took them full retreat. As their route took them full retreat. As their route took them through narrow defiles and over rough through narrow defiles and over rough through narrow defiles and over rough country, they clashed and trampled on country, they clashed and trampled on country, they clashed and trampled on one another, and many died without one another, and many died without one another, and many died without having received a blow from the enemy. having received a blow from the enemy. having received a blow from the enemy. Four men lay piled up in confusion, he Four men lay piled up in confusion, he Four men lay piled up in confusion, he writes, some without armor, others in writes, some without armor, others in writes, some without armor, others in full battle paniply. Some with their full battle paniply. Some with their full battle paniply. Some with their swords still drawn killed those who swords still drawn killed those who swords still drawn killed those who spitted themselves upon them. Most of spitted themselves upon them. Most of spitted themselves upon them. Most of the cavalry, however, bursting out into the cavalry, however, bursting out into the cavalry, however, bursting out into the plane and driving their horses at the plane and driving their horses at the plane and driving their horses at full gallop, succeeded in reaching the full gallop, succeeded in reaching the full gallop, succeeded in reaching the safety of the friendly cities. Now, the safety of the friendly cities. Now, the safety of the friendly cities. Now, the Macedonian failanks and the Persian Macedonian failanks and the Persian Macedonian failanks and the Persian infantry were engaged only briefly, he infantry were engaged only briefly, he infantry were engaged only briefly, he writes, for the route of the cavalry had writes, for the route of the cavalry had writes, for the route of the cavalry had been, as it were, a prelude of the whole been, as it were, a prelude of the whole been, as it were, a prelude of the whole victory. Soon all of the Persians were victory. Soon all of the Persians were victory. Soon all of the Persians were in retreat, and so many tens of in retreat, and so many tens of in retreat, and so many tens of thousands were making their escape thousands were making their escape thousands were making their escape through narrow passes, the whole through narrow passes, the whole through narrow passes, the whole countryside was soon covered with

countryside was soon covered with countryside was soon covered with bodies. end quote. bodies. end quote. bodies. end quote. anyone who's taken an interest in what's anyone who's taken an interest in what's anyone who's taken an interest in what's sometimes called battlefield archaeology sometimes called battlefield archaeology sometimes called battlefield archaeology uh that's taken place in locations like uh that's taken place in locations like uh that's taken place in locations like where George Kuster died at the Battle where George Kuster died at the Battle where George Kuster died at the Battle of the Little Big Horn will be of the Little Big Horn will be of the Little Big Horn will be fascinated uh by as I am too by how fascinated uh by as I am too by how fascinated uh by as I am too by how modern technology can almost recreate modern technology can almost recreate modern technology can almost recreate the battle based on what you could call the battle based on what you could call the battle based on what you could call debris fields left over whether it's debris fields left over whether it's debris fields left over whether it's ammunition bones equipment whatever ammunition bones equipment whatever ammunition bones equipment whatever and if If you, you know, read the and if If you, you know, read the and if If you, you know, read the accounts here, uh, this battle could accounts here, uh, this battle could accounts here, uh, this battle could almost be recreated that way. I mean, almost be recreated that way. I mean, almost be recreated that way. I mean, the the carnage around the where the the the carnage around the where the the the carnage around the where the great king's chariot was is remarked great king's chariot was is remarked great king's chariot was is remarked upon. There was a great slaughter there upon. There was a great slaughter there upon. There was a great slaughter there because that's where, you know, it all because that's where, you know, it all because that's where, you know, it all hit the fan, right? The the bravest hit the fan, right? The the bravest hit the fan, right? The the bravest guards, troops that the king has are guards, troops that the king has are guards, troops that the king has are trying to literally fend Alexander off. trying to literally fend Alexander off. trying to literally fend Alexander off. That's the famous scene from the That's the famous scene from the That's the famous scene from the Alexander mosaic, you know, with Alexander mosaic, you know, with Alexander mosaic, you know, with Alexander charging, spearing a guy and Alexander charging, spearing a guy and Alexander charging, spearing a guy and the great king's right there in the the great king's right there in the the great king's right there in the chariot. And the look on his face, well, chariot. And the look on his face, well, chariot. And the look on his face, well, says it all even all these years later.

says it all even all these years later. says it all even all these years later. But they don't know how many people were But they don't know how many people were But they don't know how many people were killed in this battle on the Persian killed in this battle on the Persian killed in this battle on the Persian side for the same reason that they don't side for the same reason that they don't side for the same reason that they don't know how many people fought in this know how many people fought in this know how many people fought in this battle on the Persian side. But it's an battle on the Persian side. But it's an battle on the Persian side. But it's an absolutely safe bet to say, you know, absolutely safe bet to say, you know, absolutely safe bet to say, you know, it's 15 or 20 Titanics at least going it's 15 or 20 Titanics at least going it's 15 or 20 Titanics at least going down, right? 20,000 at least. down, right? 20,000 at least. down, right? 20,000 at least. You could bump those numbers up double You could bump those numbers up double You could bump those numbers up double and have a lot of people be fine with and have a lot of people be fine with and have a lot of people be fine with that, too. that, too. that, too. And the only thing that probably saves And the only thing that probably saves And the only thing that probably saves that from being worse is night. that from being worse is night. that from being worse is night. Remember, the battle's supposed to have Remember, the battle's supposed to have Remember, the battle's supposed to have started in the late afternoon. So, uh, started in the late afternoon. So, uh, started in the late afternoon. So, uh, they probably only had, by the they probably only had, by the they probably only had, by the calculations that we even mentioned, uh, calculations that we even mentioned, uh, calculations that we even mentioned, uh, 2 hours or something of light. So, 2 hours or something of light. So, 2 hours or something of light. So, however long it took to have the battle. however long it took to have the battle. however long it took to have the battle. I mean, Alexander supposedly uh, himself I mean, Alexander supposedly uh, himself I mean, Alexander supposedly uh, himself is involved in the pursuit. is involved in the pursuit. is involved in the pursuit. And the ancient sources say he pursued And the ancient sources say he pursued And the ancient sources say he pursued for I looked it up. It's between 20 and for I looked it up. It's between 20 and for I looked it up. It's between 20 and 25 miles. So, then you have to not just 25 miles. So, then you have to not just 25 miles. So, then you have to not just go that far, but then turn around and go that far, but then turn around and go that far, but then turn around and retrace your steps to get back to where retrace your steps to get back to where retrace your steps to get back to where you were.

you were. you were. And to be honest, there's a lot of And to be honest, there's a lot of And to be honest, there's a lot of things that interest me about this things that interest me about this things that interest me about this moment in this guy's life. moment in this guy's life. moment in this guy's life. It's something that's been relatively It's something that's been relatively It's something that's been relatively unexplored in, for example, the movie unexplored in, for example, the movie unexplored in, for example, the movie history of the man. I mean, as we said, history of the man. I mean, as we said, history of the man. I mean, as we said, I think the battle of Isis doesn't even I think the battle of Isis doesn't even I think the battle of Isis doesn't even appear in the two major movies that have appear in the two major movies that have appear in the two major movies that have been done about Alexander. But what's been done about Alexander. But what's been done about Alexander. But what's going through his head at this time? going through his head at this time? going through his head at this time? First of all, I mean, in my scene, First of all, I mean, in my scene, First of all, I mean, in my scene, you're probably going to get one of you're probably going to get one of you're probably going to get one of those ratings where you can't even bring those ratings where you can't even bring those ratings where you can't even bring people under 18, even with permission people under 18, even with permission people under 18, even with permission from a parent, because think about from a parent, because think about from a parent, because think about what he's going to look like at this what he's going to look like at this what he's going to look like at this point. Now, uh, the thigh wound he point. Now, uh, the thigh wound he point. Now, uh, the thigh wound he supposedly has, and very well may is supposedly has, and very well may is supposedly has, and very well may is going to have been bleeding. So, there's going to have been bleeding. So, there's going to have been bleeding. So, there's going to be that, but you need to going to be that, but you need to going to be that, but you need to remember what these battlefields look remember what these battlefields look remember what these battlefields look like. like. like. And I've talked about it extensively And I've talked about it extensively And I've talked about it extensively because in my mind, I can't even picture because in my mind, I can't even picture because in my mind, I can't even picture it. And of course, you know, it. And of course, you know, it. And of course, you know, battlefields in the ancient world are battlefields in the ancient world are battlefields in the ancient world are like fingerprints. No two are exactly like fingerprints. No two are exactly like fingerprints. No two are exactly the same. the same. the same. But I believe, didn't we say way back But I believe, didn't we say way back But I believe, didn't we say way back when we were doing the Roman shows, they when we were doing the Roman shows, they when we were doing the Roman shows, they in some places they would hold tours in some places they would hold tours in some places they would hold tours afterwards to show people what it looked afterwards to show people what it looked afterwards to show people what it looked like. There's a morbid curiosity in the like. There's a morbid curiosity in the like. There's a morbid curiosity in the whole thing, but it must have been awful whole thing, but it must have been awful whole thing, but it must have been awful to behold.

to behold. to behold. Um, I remember reading some stuff Um, I remember reading some stuff Um, I remember reading some stuff historian um, Larry Tridle had talked historian um, Larry Tridle had talked historian um, Larry Tridle had talked about when he was talking about what the about when he was talking about what the about when he was talking about what the environment of the ancient battlefield environment of the ancient battlefield environment of the ancient battlefield would be like. And he was quoted in my would be like. And he was quoted in my would be like. And he was quoted in my copy of combat trauma in the ancient copy of combat trauma in the ancient copy of combat trauma in the ancient Greeks, saying about a hoplight battle, Greeks, saying about a hoplight battle, Greeks, saying about a hoplight battle, which is similar to what we had this which is similar to what we had this which is similar to what we had this afternoon here. and he says, quote, "The afternoon here. and he says, quote, "The afternoon here. and he says, quote, "The sights and sounds of this fight, like sights and sounds of this fight, like sights and sounds of this fight, like any battle, ancient or modern, are any battle, ancient or modern, are any battle, ancient or modern, are nearly beyond the comprehension of the nearly beyond the comprehension of the nearly beyond the comprehension of the inexperienced. The battlefield itself inexperienced. The battlefield itself inexperienced. The battlefield itself would have become littered with bodies would have become littered with bodies would have become littered with bodies of the wounded, dying, and dead, making of the wounded, dying, and dead, making of the wounded, dying, and dead, making it difficult to walk and fight at the it difficult to walk and fight at the it difficult to walk and fight at the same time. Blood and viscera would have same time. Blood and viscera would have same time. Blood and viscera would have made the ground slippery and the air made the ground slippery and the air made the ground slippery and the air foul. The noise and confusion would have foul. The noise and confusion would have foul. The noise and confusion would have been bewildering and disorienting all at been bewildering and disorienting all at been bewildering and disorienting all at once. once. once. end quote. end quote. end quote. And so here we have Alexander And so here we have Alexander And so here we have Alexander on this ride back. Don't know how long on this ride back. Don't know how long on this ride back. Don't know how long it would have taken him. Depends on his it would have taken him. Depends on his it would have taken him. Depends on his speed, right? Hour, maybe two. And he's speed, right? Hour, maybe two. And he's speed, right? Hour, maybe two. And he's got some time now to think and absorb got some time now to think and absorb got some time now to think and absorb what's happened. And when he arrives, what's happened. And when he arrives, what's happened. And when he arrives, you know, back where the Macedonians are you know, back where the Macedonians are you know, back where the Macedonians are near the battlefield, he must have near the battlefield, he must have near the battlefield, he must have looked like Carrie from the movie Carrie looked like Carrie from the movie Carrie looked like Carrie from the movie Carrie when the pig's blood was all dropped on when the pig's blood was all dropped on when the pig's blood was all dropped on him. How can you be in close proximity him. How can you be in close proximity him. How can you be in close proximity to lots of people having limbs lpped to lots of people having limbs lpped to lots of people having limbs lpped off? I mean, the arterial blood spurting off? I mean, the arterial blood spurting off? I mean, the arterial blood spurting all over the place. Go look at a crime

all over the place. Go look at a crime all over the place. Go look at a crime scene photo of a modern murder scene. scene photo of a modern murder scene. scene photo of a modern murder scene. And now imagine what we talked about And now imagine what we talked about And now imagine what we talked about with Alexander and crowds and all this with Alexander and crowds and all this with Alexander and crowds and all this kind. I mean, this is the sort of stuff kind. I mean, this is the sort of stuff kind. I mean, this is the sort of stuff that'll get your movie rated X or that'll get your movie rated X or that'll get your movie rated X or something and you won't even be able to something and you won't even be able to something and you won't even be able to bring people under 18 with a parents, bring people under 18 with a parents, bring people under 18 with a parents, you know, accompaniment. That'll ruin you know, accompaniment. That'll ruin you know, accompaniment. That'll ruin your movie right there. But that's your movie right there. But that's your movie right there. But that's probably closer to the reality. probably closer to the reality. probably closer to the reality. I'm fascinated by several aspects of I'm fascinated by several aspects of I'm fascinated by several aspects of what what's just happened though. First what what's just happened though. First what what's just happened though. First of all, just Alexander leading the of all, just Alexander leading the of all, just Alexander leading the pursuit himself is so Alexander. pursuit himself is so Alexander. pursuit himself is so Alexander. Even his dad who was no sherker when it Even his dad who was no sherker when it Even his dad who was no sherker when it came to being the first among equals and came to being the first among equals and came to being the first among equals and you know the whole thing. I mean gave up you know the whole thing. I mean gave up you know the whole thing. I mean gave up his eye, limped around for you know the his eye, limped around for you know the his eye, limped around for you know the rest of the end of his life. I mean he rest of the end of his life. I mean he rest of the end of his life. I mean he gave up his body for all that. I but gave up his body for all that. I but gave up his body for all that. I but even Philip might have said, "Okay, let even Philip might have said, "Okay, let even Philip might have said, "Okay, let the light cavalry do the pursuing. Let's the light cavalry do the pursuing. Let's the light cavalry do the pursuing. Let's start the party early, get the wine start the party early, get the wine start the party early, get the wine going." But not Alexander. And if this going." But not Alexander. And if this going." But not Alexander. And if this was the only time he did this, it was the only time he did this, it was the only time he did this, it wouldn't be worth bringing up. But all wouldn't be worth bringing up. But all wouldn't be worth bringing up. But all throughout his career, he does this. He throughout his career, he does this. He throughout his career, he does this. He doesn't miss an opportunity to be doesn't miss an opportunity to be doesn't miss an opportunity to be involved in the fight wherever it is.

involved in the fight wherever it is. involved in the fight wherever it is. And things to remember, and we've said And things to remember, and we've said And things to remember, and we've said this before, he he is famously this before, he he is famously this before, he he is famously um not as tall, not as big as the people um not as tall, not as big as the people um not as tall, not as big as the people around him. I mean, he's he's this is around him. I mean, he's he's this is around him. I mean, he's he's this is remarked upon and yet he's right there remarked upon and yet he's right there remarked upon and yet he's right there first and it's going to get him into first and it's going to get him into first and it's going to get him into trouble, of course, cuz think about we trouble, of course, cuz think about we trouble, of course, cuz think about we said the boxing analogy, the idea of the said the boxing analogy, the idea of the said the boxing analogy, the idea of the wear and tear. Keep track of the wear wear and tear. Keep track of the wear wear and tear. Keep track of the wear and tear on this guy. What's going on in and tear on this guy. What's going on in and tear on this guy. What's going on in all these pursuits? all these pursuits? all these pursuits? If I could transfer your brain into his If I could transfer your brain into his If I could transfer your brain into his mind and all of a sudden you could see mind and all of a sudden you could see mind and all of a sudden you could see the images flashing from his memory the images flashing from his memory the images flashing from his memory banks, I mean, you'd be traumatized. banks, I mean, you'd be traumatized. banks, I mean, you'd be traumatized. There'd be your rated X movie right There'd be your rated X movie right There'd be your rated X movie right there. But think about all these there. But think about all these there. But think about all these incidents. How many people did he kill incidents. How many people did he kill incidents. How many people did he kill today? today? today? How much of those things stick with him How much of those things stick with him How much of those things stick with him or not? It's a longunning debate, by the or not? It's a longunning debate, by the or not? It's a longunning debate, by the way. And that combat trauma book I just way. And that combat trauma book I just way. And that combat trauma book I just mentioned is one of the books that talks mentioned is one of the books that talks mentioned is one of the books that talks about it. There's all kinds of versions about it. There's all kinds of versions about it. There's all kinds of versions though, Achilles in Vietnam though, Achilles in Vietnam though, Achilles in Vietnam that talk about this uh question about that talk about this uh question about that talk about this uh question about whether or not what we would call PTSD whether or not what we would call PTSD whether or not what we would call PTSD today is something that was really today is something that was really today is something that was really invented by moderns and that culture and invented by moderns and that culture and invented by moderns and that culture and all sorts of other things insulated all sorts of other things insulated all sorts of other things insulated earlier peoples from it or whether or earlier peoples from it or whether or earlier peoples from it or whether or not it's more biological and it doesn't not it's more biological and it doesn't not it's more biological and it doesn't matter what time and place you come matter what time and place you come matter what time and place you come from. That might add as a variable, but from. That might add as a variable, but from. That might add as a variable, but you see enough murders and participate you see enough murders and participate you see enough murders and participate in enough murders, it's going to affect in enough murders, it's going to affect in enough murders, it's going to affect you no matter what.

you no matter what. you no matter what. It's an interesting debate, but somehow It's an interesting debate, but somehow It's an interesting debate, but somehow one wonders whether all the incidents one wonders whether all the incidents one wonders whether all the incidents that Alexander's living and going that Alexander's living and going that Alexander's living and going through here are having some effect on through here are having some effect on through here are having some effect on him. And if not the stuff we can argue him. And if not the stuff we can argue him. And if not the stuff we can argue about whether or not it's biological or about whether or not it's biological or about whether or not it's biological or cultural or any of those sorts of cultural or any of those sorts of cultural or any of those sorts of things, just think about how many times things, just think about how many times things, just think about how many times he's getting hit on the head. he's getting hit on the head. he's getting hit on the head. Battle of the Granicus famously almost Battle of the Granicus famously almost Battle of the Granicus famously almost has his skull split open. A lot of talk has his skull split open. A lot of talk has his skull split open. A lot of talk these days that didn't exist before CTE, these days that didn't exist before CTE, these days that didn't exist before CTE, you know, the concussive uh damage that you know, the concussive uh damage that you know, the concussive uh damage that occurs in contact sports. A lot of talk occurs in contact sports. A lot of talk occurs in contact sports. A lot of talk now that wasn't around when I was now that wasn't around when I was now that wasn't around when I was younger about this cuz more is known younger about this cuz more is known younger about this cuz more is known about it. When you look at Alexander and about it. When you look at Alexander and about it. When you look at Alexander and all the wear and tear, remember he's not all the wear and tear, remember he's not all the wear and tear, remember he's not just stabbing people in the back during just stabbing people in the back during just stabbing people in the back during these pursuits. People are selling their these pursuits. People are selling their these pursuits. People are selling their lives dearly. At the battle of Kenne lives dearly. At the battle of Kenne lives dearly. At the battle of Kenne where Hannibal surrounded 50,000 or more where Hannibal surrounded 50,000 or more where Hannibal surrounded 50,000 or more Romans. Uh that's the end of the battle Romans. Uh that's the end of the battle Romans. Uh that's the end of the battle as far as a war gamer is concerned, as far as a war gamer is concerned, as far as a war gamer is concerned, right? That's when I pack up and go right? That's when I pack up and go right? That's when I pack up and go home. But you still have to kill all home. But you still have to kill all home. But you still have to kill all those people and every one of them is those people and every one of them is those people and every one of them is going to want to sell their lives going to want to sell their lives going to want to sell their lives dearly. And so you could be a dearly. And so you could be a dearly. And so you could be a Carthaginian thinking, the battle's won, Carthaginian thinking, the battle's won, Carthaginian thinking, the battle's won, I've surrounded these guys, but I still I've surrounded these guys, but I still I've surrounded these guys, but I still have to kill my way to the center of a have to kill my way to the center of a have to kill my way to the center of a massive crowd, and everybody at the massive crowd, and everybody at the massive crowd, and everybody at the edges is going to fight like a cornered edges is going to fight like a cornered edges is going to fight like a cornered rat. Same applies to Alexander. And rat. Same applies to Alexander. And rat. Same applies to Alexander. And that's a large part of the Alexander that's a large part of the Alexander that's a large part of the Alexander story that goes unrecorded.

story that goes unrecorded. story that goes unrecorded. Add up all the times he does what he Add up all the times he does what he Add up all the times he does what he just did here, take part in the pursuit, just did here, take part in the pursuit, just did here, take part in the pursuit, be the first over the wall, whatever it be the first over the wall, whatever it be the first over the wall, whatever it is, and you don't record the rocks that is, and you don't record the rocks that is, and you don't record the rocks that hit him in the head and all that other hit him in the head and all that other hit him in the head and all that other stuff. We'll have a chance to revisit stuff. We'll have a chance to revisit stuff. We'll have a chance to revisit this later cuz it's part of the mystery. this later cuz it's part of the mystery. this later cuz it's part of the mystery. But the other thing that occurs to me, But the other thing that occurs to me, But the other thing that occurs to me, if you're into things like the extremes if you're into things like the extremes if you're into things like the extremes of the human experience, there are other of the human experience, there are other of the human experience, there are other extremes beyond the bloody and the extremes beyond the bloody and the extremes beyond the bloody and the horrible. There's the extremes of horrible. There's the extremes of horrible. There's the extremes of emotion. I mean, what does this feel emotion. I mean, what does this feel emotion. I mean, what does this feel like? What is what is running through like? What is what is running through like? What is what is running through his emotional sense at this moment? I his emotional sense at this moment? I his emotional sense at this moment? I mean, you try to think of like scoring a mean, you try to think of like scoring a mean, you try to think of like scoring a goal in the World Cup, uh, scoring a goal in the World Cup, uh, scoring a goal in the World Cup, uh, scoring a touchdown in the Super Bowl. I mean, I touchdown in the Super Bowl. I mean, I touchdown in the Super Bowl. I mean, I what does this compare to? And what's what does this compare to? And what's what does this compare to? And what's the amplitude? And what are the the amplitude? And what are the the amplitude? And what are the emotions? You know, is it jubilation? emotions? You know, is it jubilation? emotions? You know, is it jubilation? Is it sort of shock? Is it a letdown Is it sort of shock? Is it a letdown Is it sort of shock? Is it a letdown because you've had all this adrenaline, because you've had all this adrenaline, because you've had all this adrenaline, all this stress you've been looking up all this stress you've been looking up all this stress you've been looking up to and now it's deflated? Are you simply to and now it's deflated? Are you simply to and now it's deflated? Are you simply completely physically whipped because completely physically whipped because completely physically whipped because you probably have never exerted yourself you probably have never exerted yourself you probably have never exerted yourself athletically and physically as intensely athletically and physically as intensely athletically and physically as intensely as you have today and remember the days as you have today and remember the days as you have today and remember the days leading up to it?

leading up to it? leading up to it? Or is it brain chemicals involved? Do we Or is it brain chemicals involved? Do we Or is it brain chemicals involved? Do we have adrenaline and serotonin and have adrenaline and serotonin and have adrenaline and serotonin and dopamine and all these things working on dopamine and all these things working on dopamine and all these things working on him? I mean, what does this feel like? him? I mean, what does this feel like? him? I mean, what does this feel like? Very few people have ever been in a Very few people have ever been in a Very few people have ever been in a situation uh where they can feel what situation uh where they can feel what situation uh where they can feel what Alexander's feeling here. At least not Alexander's feeling here. At least not Alexander's feeling here. At least not at the amplitude he'd be feeling it. at the amplitude he'd be feeling it. at the amplitude he'd be feeling it. that I'm fascinated by what that must to that I'm fascinated by what that must to that I'm fascinated by what that must to use the word again feel like. use the word again feel like. use the word again feel like. Now I'd said that um you know no one Now I'd said that um you know no one Now I'd said that um you know no one knows how many Persians died. Uh no one knows how many Persians died. Uh no one knows how many Persians died. Uh no one knows how many Macedonians died either. knows how many Macedonians died either. knows how many Macedonians died either. You have the numbers from the ancient You have the numbers from the ancient You have the numbers from the ancient sources which clearly sound like sources which clearly sound like sources which clearly sound like propaganda propaganda propaganda or they're being misinterpreted right? or they're being misinterpreted right? or they're being misinterpreted right? They'll give you these low numbers and They'll give you these low numbers and They'll give you these low numbers and then you realize later they're only then you realize later they're only then you realize later they're only counting you know the companions or counting you know the companions or counting you know the companions or something. you know, those those thrians something. you know, those those thrians something. you know, those those thrians or those Akranians or those light or those Akranians or those light or those Akranians or those light troops, they didn't even they weren't troops, they didn't even they weren't troops, they didn't even they weren't even mentioned in the numbers. So, who even mentioned in the numbers. So, who even mentioned in the numbers. So, who knows? There have been good estimates knows? There have been good estimates knows? There have been good estimates that the numbers are probably something, that the numbers are probably something, that the numbers are probably something, you know, 1,500 you know, 1,500 you know, 1,500 uh with a 4:1 or a 5:1 ratio wounded to uh with a 4:1 or a 5:1 ratio wounded to uh with a 4:1 or a 5:1 ratio wounded to dead. So, that's, you know, four or dead. So, that's, you know, four or dead. So, that's, you know, four or 5,000 men wounded. And that makes sense 5,000 men wounded. And that makes sense 5,000 men wounded. And that makes sense when you think about the kind of when you think about the kind of when you think about the kind of injuries you would get from all that injuries you would get from all that injuries you would get from all that stuff being thrown in the air. Like we stuff being thrown in the air. Like we stuff being thrown in the air. Like we talked about all those javelins, all talked about all those javelins, all talked about all those javelins, all those arrows kicking around in the air.

those arrows kicking around in the air. those arrows kicking around in the air. Uh that's going to be a lot of people Uh that's going to be a lot of people Uh that's going to be a lot of people getting wounded. getting wounded. getting wounded. It demonstrates uh yet again though the It demonstrates uh yet again though the It demonstrates uh yet again though the difference between the kind of difference between the kind of difference between the kind of casualties that the winner gets versus casualties that the winner gets versus casualties that the winner gets versus the loser. And it's that route and all the loser. And it's that route and all the loser. And it's that route and all the killing that happens after the the killing that happens after the the killing that happens after the battle's officially over that really battle's officially over that really battle's officially over that really determines who suffers a lot more. determines who suffers a lot more. determines who suffers a lot more. Speaking of the suffering, there's an Speaking of the suffering, there's an Speaking of the suffering, there's an incident here that occurs when Alexander incident here that occurs when Alexander incident here that occurs when Alexander gets back from the pursuit. gets back from the pursuit. gets back from the pursuit. The timeline is weird, so it's hard to The timeline is weird, so it's hard to The timeline is weird, so it's hard to know whether it happens sort of like know whether it happens sort of like know whether it happens sort of like right when he comes back or if it's the right when he comes back or if it's the right when he comes back or if it's the next day or if it's spaced out over both next day or if it's spaced out over both next day or if it's spaced out over both of them, but it's an interesting moment, of them, but it's an interesting moment, of them, but it's an interesting moment, and I'm fascinated with this, too. We and I'm fascinated with this, too. We and I'm fascinated with this, too. We talked about it when we talked about talked about it when we talked about talked about it when we talked about Alexander destroying thieves and what Alexander destroying thieves and what Alexander destroying thieves and what human beings do in situations like that. human beings do in situations like that. human beings do in situations like that. If you're a thie and he's destroying If you're a thie and he's destroying If you're a thie and he's destroying your city and you know this is coming, your city and you know this is coming, your city and you know this is coming, what do you do? Do you stay in your what do you do? Do you stay in your what do you do? Do you stay in your home? Do you head to the, you know, city home? Do you head to the, you know, city home? Do you head to the, you know, city square to be with other people? And it square to be with other people? And it square to be with other people? And it seems like that's what a lot of people seems like that's what a lot of people seems like that's what a lot of people do.

do. do. And when Alexander's troops overrun the And when Alexander's troops overrun the And when Alexander's troops overrun the camp of Das, uh, which is nearby, that's camp of Das, uh, which is nearby, that's camp of Das, uh, which is nearby, that's where they were sort of staying while where they were sort of staying while where they were sort of staying while they awaited the battle. Well, now the they awaited the battle. Well, now the they awaited the battle. Well, now the Macedonians, Macedonians, Macedonians, uh, get their hands on it. Peter Green uh, get their hands on it. Peter Green uh, get their hands on it. Peter Green referred to it as a looters paradise. referred to it as a looters paradise. referred to it as a looters paradise. You have to think of as we had mentioned You have to think of as we had mentioned You have to think of as we had mentioned earlier something along the lines of a earlier something along the lines of a earlier something along the lines of a city. city. city. The the number of people that would have The the number of people that would have The the number of people that would have been living including the hangers on and been living including the hangers on and been living including the hangers on and all the support people in this Persian all the support people in this Persian all the support people in this Persian camp would have made a goodsize ancient camp would have made a goodsize ancient camp would have made a goodsize ancient city city city and the pavilion for the great king and the pavilion for the great king and the pavilion for the great king alone. This giant tent has a courtyard. alone. This giant tent has a courtyard. alone. This giant tent has a courtyard. I mean it's it's massive. It's far I mean it's it's massive. It's far I mean it's it's massive. It's far richer than most of the people in the richer than most of the people in the richer than most of the people in the Macedonian army have ever even dreamed Macedonian army have ever even dreamed Macedonian army have ever even dreamed of. And remember, if the speeches, you of. And remember, if the speeches, you of. And remember, if the speeches, you know, grain of salt here are to be taken know, grain of salt here are to be taken know, grain of salt here are to be taken u you know, the ones that Alexander gave u you know, the ones that Alexander gave u you know, the ones that Alexander gave before the battle uh of any sort of before the battle uh of any sort of before the battle uh of any sort of value at all, he's literally telling value at all, he's literally telling value at all, he's literally telling people like the thrians who get a slap people like the thrians who get a slap people like the thrians who get a slap in the face by being saved, you know, in the face by being saved, you know, in the face by being saved, you know, people who make a living off robbery.

people who make a living off robbery. people who make a living off robbery. He's telling them what's there, right? He's telling them what's there, right? He's telling them what's there, right? To motivate them. Well, guess what? Time To motivate them. Well, guess what? Time To motivate them. Well, guess what? Time to collect your winnings. to collect your winnings. to collect your winnings. And this camp is being ransacked to such And this camp is being ransacked to such And this camp is being ransacked to such a degree that the uh ancient authors a degree that the uh ancient authors a degree that the uh ancient authors talk about you can follow the trail of talk about you can follow the trail of talk about you can follow the trail of stuff that people have just thrown out stuff that people have just thrown out stuff that people have just thrown out because they found better stuff along because they found better stuff along because they found better stuff along the way. So they throw out the stuff the way. So they throw out the stuff the way. So they throw out the stuff that they had previously because they that they had previously because they that they had previously because they found something better and they can't found something better and they can't found something better and they can't carry it all. And of course part of the carry it all. And of course part of the carry it all. And of course part of the loot here loot here loot here are people, especially women, and are people, especially women, and are people, especially women, and they're part of the nightmare that's they're part of the nightmare that's they're part of the nightmare that's going on in a place like this. Because going on in a place like this. Because going on in a place like this. Because as we had said, the Persians bring their as we had said, the Persians bring their as we had said, the Persians bring their families with them. The great king's families with them. The great king's families with them. The great king's family is here. The family of a bunch of family is here. The family of a bunch of family is here. The family of a bunch of the people of the so-called kinsmen, the people of the so-called kinsmen, the people of the so-called kinsmen, which is really the, let's call them, which is really the, let's call them, which is really the, let's call them, the oligarchy of aid Persia. They're the oligarchy of aid Persia. They're the oligarchy of aid Persia. They're here too. here too. here too. And now they've fallen into the And now they've fallen into the And now they've fallen into the Macedonian hands and they are being Macedonian hands and they are being Macedonian hands and they are being abused. abused. abused. The ancient sources talk about it. And The ancient sources talk about it. And The ancient sources talk about it. And you know, again, this is where you have you know, again, this is where you have you know, again, this is where you have to parse the sources a little because to parse the sources a little because to parse the sources a little because remember that Aryan is doing a version remember that Aryan is doing a version remember that Aryan is doing a version of Alexander that makes it really shaves of Alexander that makes it really shaves of Alexander that makes it really shaves off the rough edges. If he ever says off the rough edges. If he ever says off the rough edges. If he ever says anything critical, you take it as anything critical, you take it as anything critical, you take it as hyperritical because that's unusual for hyperritical because that's unusual for hyperritical because that's unusual for him. But in this case, Aryan uses what's him. But in this case, Aryan uses what's him. But in this case, Aryan uses what's happening here as a setup to show, you happening here as a setup to show, you happening here as a setup to show, you know, one of Alexander's really good know, one of Alexander's really good know, one of Alexander's really good qualities allegedly. But the vulgate qualities allegedly. But the vulgate qualities allegedly. But the vulgate tradition guys, the Diodorises and the tradition guys, the Diodorises and the tradition guys, the Diodorises and the um the courteouses, they fully talk

um the courteouses, they fully talk um the courteouses, they fully talk about what the Macedonian troops are about what the Macedonian troops are about what the Macedonian troops are doing to the women. And an interesting doing to the women. And an interesting doing to the women. And an interesting scene develops. And again, if we're scene develops. And again, if we're scene develops. And again, if we're doing this like a movie, there's a scene doing this like a movie, there's a scene doing this like a movie, there's a scene to include here because it's interesting to include here because it's interesting to include here because it's interesting and you don't get a lot of these in and you don't get a lot of these in and you don't get a lot of these in history, but it's it's the moment where history, but it's it's the moment where history, but it's it's the moment where the queen mother who was there. So, this the queen mother who was there. So, this the queen mother who was there. So, this would be Das III's mother. She's there. would be Das III's mother. She's there. would be Das III's mother. She's there. She's going to be the elderly older She's going to be the elderly older She's going to be the elderly older power and almost through like the power power and almost through like the power power and almost through like the power of her dignity and personality. of her dignity and personality. of her dignity and personality. She creates I was trying to think of She creates I was trying to think of She creates I was trying to think of what a good term would be to create the what a good term would be to create the what a good term would be to create the right visuals. It's like a circle of right visuals. It's like a circle of right visuals. It's like a circle of protection around the nearby people protection around the nearby people protection around the nearby people around her drawing them. Again, this is around her drawing them. Again, this is around her drawing them. Again, this is me reading into the sources, but you can me reading into the sources, but you can me reading into the sources, but you can read them for yourself and see what it read them for yourself and see what it read them for yourself and see what it is you think's going on here. sort of is you think's going on here. sort of is you think's going on here. sort of brings them into her circle of brings them into her circle of brings them into her circle of protection and it's keeping the protection and it's keeping the protection and it's keeping the Macedonian looters at bay. Macedonian looters at bay. Macedonian looters at bay. And this whole incident includes a line And this whole incident includes a line And this whole incident includes a line from Diodoris that I love. I wonder what from Diodoris that I love. I wonder what from Diodoris that I love. I wonder what the ancient Greek uh in the ancient the ancient Greek uh in the ancient the ancient Greek uh in the ancient Greek how it sounds. But he he's talking Greek how it sounds. But he he's talking Greek how it sounds. But he he's talking about the women that are being abused about the women that are being abused about the women that are being abused and then they they seek help. He says and then they they seek help. He says and then they they seek help. He says from those who need help themselves.

from those who need help themselves. from those who need help themselves. And that's like this queen mother. I And that's like this queen mother. I And that's like this queen mother. I mean, ostensively, mean, ostensively, mean, ostensively, uh, they think she thinks, and she's uh, they think she thinks, and she's uh, they think she thinks, and she's with, uh, her son's wife, uh, which is with, uh, her son's wife, uh, which is with, uh, her son's wife, uh, which is also, uh, Daria's sister, I think, and also, uh, Daria's sister, I think, and also, uh, Daria's sister, I think, and and his two granddaughters and the and his two granddaughters and the and his two granddaughters and the grandson, and and they think they're grandson, and and they think they're grandson, and and they think they're going to be executed anyway. And here going to be executed anyway. And here going to be executed anyway. And here she is through the power of her dignity she is through the power of her dignity she is through the power of her dignity and personality, sort of keeping the and personality, sort of keeping the and personality, sort of keeping the looters at bay. And this is the way looters at bay. And this is the way looters at bay. And this is the way Diodoris in the fabulous Robin Diodoris in the fabulous Robin Diodoris in the fabulous Robin Waterfield translation Waterfield translation Waterfield translation um, tells the story. Quote, "The women um, tells the story. Quote, "The women um, tells the story. Quote, "The women who were taken prisoner suffered who were taken prisoner suffered who were taken prisoner suffered terribly. Previously, given their terribly. Previously, given their terribly. Previously, given their pampered way of life, they had scarcely pampered way of life, they had scarcely pampered way of life, they had scarcely been able to bring themselves to travel been able to bring themselves to travel been able to bring themselves to travel on richly appointed wagons and never on richly appointed wagons and never on richly appointed wagons and never exposed any part of their bodies." He's exposed any part of their bodies." He's exposed any part of their bodies." He's talking about these Persian noble women. talking about these Persian noble women. talking about these Persian noble women. But now they were evicted from their But now they were evicted from their But now they were evicted from their tents clad only in their undergarments. tents clad only in their undergarments. tents clad only in their undergarments. Bewailing their lot and tearing at their Bewailing their lot and tearing at their Bewailing their lot and tearing at their clothes, they appealed to the gods and clothes, they appealed to the gods and clothes, they appealed to the gods and fell to the knees of the victors. fell to the knees of the victors. fell to the knees of the victors. Ripping off the jewelry they were Ripping off the jewelry they were Ripping off the jewelry they were wearing with trembling hands, they fled wearing with trembling hands, they fled wearing with trembling hands, they fled with loosened hair over stony ground and with loosened hair over stony ground and with loosened hair over stony ground and huddled together, calling for help from huddled together, calling for help from huddled together, calling for help from those who were already in need of help those who were already in need of help those who were already in need of help themselves. Some of their capttors, he themselves. Some of their capttors, he themselves. Some of their capttors, he writes, dragged the wretched women away writes, dragged the wretched women away writes, dragged the wretched women away by the hair, while others tore off their by the hair, while others tore off their by the hair, while others tore off their clothes and pawed at their naked bodies.

clothes and pawed at their naked bodies. clothes and pawed at their naked bodies. They struck the women with the butt of They struck the women with the butt of They struck the women with the butt of their spears and acted as though fortune their spears and acted as though fortune their spears and acted as though fortune had granted them the right to abuse the had granted them the right to abuse the had granted them the right to abuse the most precious and renowned of the most precious and renowned of the most precious and renowned of the barbarians possessions." barbarians possessions." barbarians possessions." End quote. End quote. End quote. Well, that's where Curteous now has sort Well, that's where Curteous now has sort Well, that's where Curteous now has sort of the queen mother uh with her circle of the queen mother uh with her circle of the queen mother uh with her circle of protection and um in my John Yardly of protection and um in my John Yardly of protection and um in my John Yardly translation of Curteous, Curteous's translation of Curteous, Curteous's translation of Curteous, Curteous's quote. quote. quote. However, it was Das's mother and his However, it was Das's mother and his However, it was Das's mother and his wife, prisoners now, who had attracted wife, prisoners now, who had attracted wife, prisoners now, who had attracted to themselves everyone's gaze and to themselves everyone's gaze and to themselves everyone's gaze and attention. His mother commanded respect attention. His mother commanded respect attention. His mother commanded respect by her age as well as by her royal by her age as well as by her royal by her age as well as by her royal dignity. his wife by a beauty that even dignity. his wife by a beauty that even dignity. his wife by a beauty that even her current misfortune had not marred. her current misfortune had not marred. her current misfortune had not marred. The latter had taken to her bosom her The latter had taken to her bosom her The latter had taken to her bosom her young son, who had not yet turned six, a young son, who had not yet turned six, a young son, who had not yet turned six, a boy born into the expectation of the boy born into the expectation of the boy born into the expectation of the great fortune his father had just lost. great fortune his father had just lost. great fortune his father had just lost. In the lap of their aged grandmother, In the lap of their aged grandmother, In the lap of their aged grandmother, lay Das's two grownup but unmarried lay Das's two grownup but unmarried lay Das's two grownup but unmarried daughters, grieving for their daughters, grieving for their daughters, grieving for their grandmother as well as themselves.

grandmother as well as themselves. grandmother as well as themselves. Around her, now he's talking about the Around her, now he's talking about the Around her, now he's talking about the queen mother. Around her stood a large queen mother. Around her stood a large queen mother. Around her stood a large number of highborn women. Their hair number of highborn women. Their hair number of highborn women. Their hair torn, their clothes rent, and their torn, their clothes rent, and their torn, their clothes rent, and their former gracefulness forgotten. They former gracefulness forgotten. They former gracefulness forgotten. They called upon their queens and mistresses, called upon their queens and mistresses, called upon their queens and mistresses, titles formerly appropriate but no titles formerly appropriate but no titles formerly appropriate but no longer applicable. They forgot their own longer applicable. They forgot their own longer applicable. They forgot their own plight and kept asking on which wing Das plight and kept asking on which wing Das plight and kept asking on which wing Das had stood and how the battle had gone, had stood and how the battle had gone, had stood and how the battle had gone, claiming they were not captives at all claiming they were not captives at all claiming they were not captives at all if the king still lived. End quote. if the king still lived. End quote. if the king still lived. End quote. So, you get this sense that these other So, you get this sense that these other So, you get this sense that these other women have gathered around the queen women have gathered around the queen women have gathered around the queen mother because she's I mean, first of mother because she's I mean, first of mother because she's I mean, first of all, if they're all going to die, all, if they're all going to die, all, if they're all going to die, they're all going to die together. they're all going to die together. they're all going to die together. That's what people seem to do in these That's what people seem to do in these That's what people seem to do in these sorts of situations, but she's kind of sorts of situations, but she's kind of sorts of situations, but she's kind of holding off the looter. And at some holding off the looter. And at some holding off the looter. And at some point, I was reading some very good point, I was reading some very good point, I was reading some very good historians who were pointing out what's historians who were pointing out what's historians who were pointing out what's obvious when you think about it. At a obvious when you think about it. At a obvious when you think about it. At a certain point, someone of authority certain point, someone of authority certain point, someone of authority shows up, some officer, somebody who's shows up, some officer, somebody who's shows up, some officer, somebody who's who's not brain damaged during the who's not brain damaged during the who's not brain damaged during the looting phase and realizes who they have looting phase and realizes who they have looting phase and realizes who they have here and how important these people are, here and how important these people are, here and how important these people are, right? Alexander, they mean a lot to right? Alexander, they mean a lot to right? Alexander, they mean a lot to Alexander alive, right? He can use them Alexander alive, right? He can use them Alexander alive, right? He can use them for propaganda purposes, all kinds of for propaganda purposes, all kinds of for propaganda purposes, all kinds of things. So, as soon as they realize what things. So, as soon as they realize what things. So, as soon as they realize what they're dealing with here, the dignity they're dealing with here, the dignity they're dealing with here, the dignity in the office of this queen mother does in the office of this queen mother does in the office of this queen mother does in fact save all these people around in fact save all these people around in fact save all these people around her.

her. her. And then Alexander shows up and has the And then Alexander shows up and has the And then Alexander shows up and has the chance to be Superman coming in and chance to be Superman coming in and chance to be Superman coming in and rescuing the vulnerable women from his rescuing the vulnerable women from his rescuing the vulnerable women from his own people. own people. own people. And a couple of different incidents And a couple of different incidents And a couple of different incidents happen that are related. Uh one that happen that are related. Uh one that happen that are related. Uh one that involves the women freaking out during a involves the women freaking out during a involves the women freaking out during a dinner in the other room and Alexander dinner in the other room and Alexander dinner in the other room and Alexander hearing it and that they think, you hearing it and that they think, you hearing it and that they think, you know, that that Das is dead and they know, that that Das is dead and they know, that that Das is dead and they think they're all going to be executed. think they're all going to be executed. think they're all going to be executed. So Alexander sends in someone to calm So Alexander sends in someone to calm So Alexander sends in someone to calm them down and make them feel better. Uh them down and make them feel better. Uh them down and make them feel better. Uh then another incident where he shows up then another incident where he shows up then another incident where he shows up with his good buddy Hestian. If you with his good buddy Hestian. If you with his good buddy Hestian. If you imagine Batman and Robin, that's kind of imagine Batman and Robin, that's kind of imagine Batman and Robin, that's kind of Alexander and Hestian. Except it's weird Alexander and Hestian. Except it's weird Alexander and Hestian. Except it's weird because Hestian is the larger, bigger because Hestian is the larger, bigger because Hestian is the larger, bigger sort of guy. So it would be as though sort of guy. So it would be as though sort of guy. So it would be as though Batman and Robin appear on the scene and Batman and Robin appear on the scene and Batman and Robin appear on the scene and Robin is 6'2 and 215 lbs and Batman's Robin is 6'2 and 215 lbs and Batman's Robin is 6'2 and 215 lbs and Batman's 5'5 and 145. So just a little bit uh 5'5 and 145. So just a little bit uh 5'5 and 145. So just a little bit uh confusing and it apparently in the confusing and it apparently in the confusing and it apparently in the stories confuses the queen mother who in stories confuses the queen mother who in stories confuses the queen mother who in their famous scene falls to the feet to their famous scene falls to the feet to their famous scene falls to the feet to beseech Alexander the Great and instead beseech Alexander the Great and instead beseech Alexander the Great and instead of doing so had fallen to the feet of doing so had fallen to the feet of doing so had fallen to the feet instead of Batman of Robin because she instead of Batman of Robin because she instead of Batman of Robin because she thinks the larger bigger sort of dude is thinks the larger bigger sort of dude is thinks the larger bigger sort of dude is obviously this great conqueror and he obviously this great conqueror and he obviously this great conqueror and he looks the part. But Alexander in the looks the part. But Alexander in the looks the part. But Alexander in the story and he gets kudos for this too. He story and he gets kudos for this too. He story and he gets kudos for this too. He doesn't take any sort of offense and has doesn't take any sort of offense and has doesn't take any sort of offense and has some wonderful, you know, sort of some wonderful, you know, sort of some wonderful, you know, sort of amorphous kind of eastern mysticism line amorphous kind of eastern mysticism line amorphous kind of eastern mysticism line where he says, "We're both Alexander."

where he says, "We're both Alexander." where he says, "We're both Alexander." So, of the Batman and Robin situation, So, of the Batman and Robin situation, So, of the Batman and Robin situation, we're both Batman, we're both Batman, we're both Batman, but the whole affair and the way he but the whole affair and the way he but the whole affair and the way he treats these women and he's going to be treats these women and he's going to be treats these women and he's going to be basically, by the way, you know, he's basically, by the way, you know, he's basically, by the way, you know, he's going to say that they can stay in their going to say that they can stay in their going to say that they can stay in their offices that he's going to give them offices that he's going to give them offices that he's going to give them even more of an allowance than they got even more of an allowance than they got even more of an allowance than they got before. I mean, it's it's perfect before. I mean, it's it's perfect before. I mean, it's it's perfect propaganda. And Alexander plays this propaganda. And Alexander plays this propaganda. And Alexander plays this part. This is an underrated side of his part. This is an underrated side of his part. This is an underrated side of his genius by the way, but he plays it genius by the way, but he plays it genius by the way, but he plays it perfectly. perfectly. perfectly. But it allows these ancient authors in a But it allows these ancient authors in a But it allows these ancient authors in a way that's very interesting and this is way that's very interesting and this is way that's very interesting and this is where you have to throw a little love uh where you have to throw a little love uh where you have to throw a little love uh in the direction of the Alexander in the direction of the Alexander in the direction of the Alexander historioggraphers who sit here and study historioggraphers who sit here and study historioggraphers who sit here and study these things. Why it's so important for these things. Why it's so important for these things. Why it's so important for Aryan and Diodoris and Curtis and all of Aryan and Diodoris and Curtis and all of Aryan and Diodoris and Curtis and all of these guys that Alexander shows this these guys that Alexander shows this these guys that Alexander shows this sort of gallant nature. this Sir sort of gallant nature. this Sir sort of gallant nature. this Sir Lancelot, Sir Gala had sort of um Lancelot, Sir Gala had sort of um Lancelot, Sir Gala had sort of um almost, almost, almost, you know, courtly love era, medieval era you know, courtly love era, medieval era you know, courtly love era, medieval era sort of values towards what they would sort of values towards what they would sort of values towards what they would have thought of as the weaker sex, have thought of as the weaker sex, have thought of as the weaker sex, although Alexander's mother would kick although Alexander's mother would kick although Alexander's mother would kick his ass.

I read an interesting line in one of the I read an interesting line in one of the books that was pointing out that the books that was pointing out that the books that was pointing out that the fact that the ancient authors would make fact that the ancient authors would make fact that the ancient authors would make such a big deal of his treatment of such a big deal of his treatment of such a big deal of his treatment of women here was perhaps a reflection of women here was perhaps a reflection of women here was perhaps a reflection of how it was expected a person in his how it was expected a person in his how it was expected a person in his position would have treated them. In position would have treated them. In position would have treated them. In other words, maybe they were remarking other words, maybe they were remarking other words, maybe they were remarking upon something that was unusual. upon something that was unusual. upon something that was unusual. This is the way Aryan who always wants This is the way Aryan who always wants This is the way Aryan who always wants to believe the best about Alexander to believe the best about Alexander to believe the best about Alexander uh puts it at the same time uh puts it at the same time uh puts it at the same time acknowledging uh that it's perhaps not a acknowledging uh that it's perhaps not a acknowledging uh that it's perhaps not a true story but even if it's not a true true story but even if it's not a true true story but even if it's not a true story he's still going to give Alexander story he's still going to give Alexander story he's still going to give Alexander credit because it seems like it should credit because it seems like it should credit because it seems like it should be and the Aubry Delling Court be and the Aubry Delling Court be and the Aubry Delling Court translation has Aryan saying quote I translation has Aryan saying quote I translation has Aryan saying quote I record this anecdote it's the heestion record this anecdote it's the heestion record this anecdote it's the heestion story I just talked about not as story I just talked about not as story I just talked about not as necessarily true though it's credible necessarily true though it's credible necessarily true though it's credible enough if such which were indeed the enough if such which were indeed the enough if such which were indeed the facts I cannot but admire Alexander both facts I cannot but admire Alexander both facts I cannot but admire Alexander both for the treating these women with such for the treating these women with such for the treating these women with such compassion and for showing such respect compassion and for showing such respect compassion and for showing such respect and confidence towards his friend and confidence towards his friend and confidence towards his friend meaning a festion if the story is just a meaning a festion if the story is just a meaning a festion if the story is just a story is what he says it was at least story is what he says it was at least story is what he says it was at least inspired by Alexander's character thus inspired by Alexander's character thus inspired by Alexander's character thus he would have acted thus he would have he would have acted thus he would have he would have acted thus he would have spoken and on this account I admire him spoken and on this account I admire him spoken and on this account I admire him no less end quote no less end quote no less end quote well and the vulgar tradition has their well and the vulgar tradition has their well and the vulgar tradition has their own reason to sort of la this moment if own reason to sort of la this moment if own reason to sort of la this moment if it happened in Alexander's life and it happened in Alexander's life and it happened in Alexander's life and that's because as we talked about that's because as we talked about that's because as we talked about earlier earlier earlier Alexander's qualities are the sorts of

Alexander's qualities are the sorts of Alexander's qualities are the sorts of qualities that in the right amounts and qualities that in the right amounts and qualities that in the right amounts and in the right mix are creating this in the right mix are creating this in the right mix are creating this formidable interesting person formidable interesting person formidable interesting person somebody who can do amazing things and somebody who can do amazing things and somebody who can do amazing things and we should point out that if a mosquito we should point out that if a mosquito we should point out that if a mosquito with malaria with malaria with malaria bit Alexander today and he died, he bit Alexander today and he died, he bit Alexander today and he died, he already would have written his name in already would have written his name in already would have written his name in the sands of history and be immortalized the sands of history and be immortalized the sands of history and be immortalized as the greatest conqueror the Greek as the greatest conqueror the Greek as the greatest conqueror the Greek world ever produced already just here. world ever produced already just here. world ever produced already just here. So let's establish that. So let's establish that. So let's establish that. But those same qualities which when they But those same qualities which when they But those same qualities which when they appear in the right amplitudes and appear in the right amplitudes and appear in the right amplitudes and amounts and mix amounts and mix amounts and mix can get easily can get easily can get easily unmed unmed unmed and out of whack. The golden mean as we and out of whack. The golden mean as we and out of whack. The golden mean as we talked about earlier talked about earlier talked about earlier is a difficult point to sustain. And the is a difficult point to sustain. And the is a difficult point to sustain. And the ancient authors have this moment in the ancient authors have this moment in the ancient authors have this moment in the Alexander story where he's starting to Alexander story where he's starting to Alexander story where he's starting to hit this plateau. This is the good hit this plateau. This is the good hit this plateau. This is the good Alexander. This is the one that the Alexander. This is the one that the Alexander. This is the one that the people who see him more from the people who see him more from the people who see him more from the philosophical king side of things. This philosophical king side of things. This philosophical king side of things. This is the the era they laed. Um, is the the era they laed. Um, is the the era they laed. Um, this is where Alexander really seems this is where Alexander really seems this is where Alexander really seems like something different than your like something different than your like something different than your run-of-the-mill sorts of strong men and run-of-the-mill sorts of strong men and run-of-the-mill sorts of strong men and conquerors and power mongers.

conquerors and power mongers. conquerors and power mongers. And it's stories like the way he treats And it's stories like the way he treats And it's stories like the way he treats these Persian women and all these sorts these Persian women and all these sorts these Persian women and all these sorts of things that partially play into this. of things that partially play into this. of things that partially play into this. The ancient authors say that at this The ancient authors say that at this The ancient authors say that at this point the army and the Macedonian rank point the army and the Macedonian rank point the army and the Macedonian rank and file have gotten a taste of Persian and file have gotten a taste of Persian and file have gotten a taste of Persian wealth and opulence wealth and opulence wealth and opulence uh and everything else and uh they're uh and everything else and uh they're uh and everything else and uh they're ready for more. ready for more. ready for more. Alexander has one of these moments Alexander has one of these moments Alexander has one of these moments recorded in Plutarch recorded in Plutarch recorded in Plutarch should be in every movie where he gets should be in every movie where he gets should be in every movie where he gets his exposure to the richness of this his exposure to the richness of this his exposure to the richness of this empire that he's starting to dismantle. empire that he's starting to dismantle. empire that he's starting to dismantle. And remember Alexander, even though they And remember Alexander, even though they And remember Alexander, even though they talk about the Spartan upbringing of the talk about the Spartan upbringing of the talk about the Spartan upbringing of the Macedonians, all come on, he's still the Macedonians, all come on, he's still the Macedonians, all come on, he's still the prince royale when he's growing up, prince royale when he's growing up, prince royale when he's growing up, right? in the court of Philip. They may right? in the court of Philip. They may right? in the court of Philip. They may have been poor compared to Persians, but have been poor compared to Persians, but have been poor compared to Persians, but they were hardly, you know, starving. they were hardly, you know, starving. they were hardly, you know, starving. And yet, when Alexander walks into the And yet, when Alexander walks into the And yet, when Alexander walks into the pavilion of the courtyard of the great pavilion of the courtyard of the great pavilion of the courtyard of the great king's tent in the Persian camp that his king's tent in the Persian camp that his king's tent in the Persian camp that his men are looting, Plutarch, actually, all men are looting, Plutarch, actually, all men are looting, Plutarch, actually, all the ancient authors try to describe the the ancient authors try to describe the the ancient authors try to describe the opulence and richness of this. We're opulence and richness of this. We're opulence and richness of this. We're talking about, you know, a football talking about, you know, a football talking about, you know, a football fieldsized tent maybe with couches and fieldsized tent maybe with couches and fieldsized tent maybe with couches and ch I mean, here's the way Plutarch ch I mean, here's the way Plutarch ch I mean, here's the way Plutarch describes it. And then he has Alexander describes it. And then he has Alexander describes it. And then he has Alexander have this wonderful line, one of these have this wonderful line, one of these have this wonderful line, one of these wonderful ambiguous, multiple ways to wonderful ambiguous, multiple ways to wonderful ambiguous, multiple ways to interpreted Alexandrian lines that are interpreted Alexandrian lines that are interpreted Alexandrian lines that are classic. And Plutarch writes, quote,

classic. And Plutarch writes, quote, classic. And Plutarch writes, quote, this is from the Dryen translation, by this is from the Dryen translation, by this is from the Dryen translation, by the way, and it picks up the story where the way, and it picks up the story where the way, and it picks up the story where Alexander's basically coming back from Alexander's basically coming back from Alexander's basically coming back from hunting for Das during the pursuit. he's hunting for Das during the pursuit. he's hunting for Das during the pursuit. he's going to be covered in blood and going to be covered in blood and going to be covered in blood and everything. And uh he arrives at the everything. And uh he arrives at the everything. And uh he arrives at the tent and his own men have gotten there. tent and his own men have gotten there. tent and his own men have gotten there. The pages have gotten there and prepped The pages have gotten there and prepped The pages have gotten there and prepped it for him with torches and they've got it for him with torches and they've got it for him with torches and they've got a bath drawing. It's just it's all ready a bath drawing. It's just it's all ready a bath drawing. It's just it's all ready for him. And um Dryden has Plutarch for him. And um Dryden has Plutarch for him. And um Dryden has Plutarch saying quote but Das's tent which was saying quote but Das's tent which was saying quote but Das's tent which was full of splendid furniture and full of splendid furniture and full of splendid furniture and quantities of gold and silver they quantities of gold and silver they quantities of gold and silver they reserved for Alexander himself who after reserved for Alexander himself who after reserved for Alexander himself who after he had put off his arms went to bathe he had put off his arms went to bathe he had put off his arms went to bathe himself saying let us now cleanse himself saying let us now cleanse himself saying let us now cleanse ourselves from the toils of war in the ourselves from the toils of war in the ourselves from the toils of war in the baths of Das. baths of Das. baths of Das. Not so, replied one of his followers, Not so, replied one of his followers, Not so, replied one of his followers, but in Alexander's rather, for the but in Alexander's rather, for the but in Alexander's rather, for the property of the conquered is and should property of the conquered is and should property of the conquered is and should be called the conquerors. Here, Plutarch be called the conquerors. Here, Plutarch be called the conquerors. Here, Plutarch writes, "When he beheld the bathing writes, "When he beheld the bathing writes, "When he beheld the bathing vessels, the water pots, the pans, and vessels, the water pots, the pans, and vessels, the water pots, the pans, and the ointment boxes, all of gold, the ointment boxes, all of gold, the ointment boxes, all of gold, curiously wrought, and smelt the curiously wrought, and smelt the curiously wrought, and smelt the fragrant odors with which the whole fragrant odors with which the whole fragrant odors with which the whole place was exquisitly perfumed, and from place was exquisitly perfumed, and from place was exquisitly perfumed, and from fence passed into a pavilion of great fence passed into a pavilion of great fence passed into a pavilion of great size and height, where the couches and size and height, where the couches and size and height, where the couches and tables and preparations for an tables and preparations for an tables and preparations for an entertainment were perfectly entertainment were perfectly entertainment were perfectly magnificent." He turned to those about magnificent." He turned to those about magnificent." He turned to those about him and said, "This, it seems, is him and said, "This, it seems, is him and said, "This, it seems, is royalty."

royalty." royalty." End quote. I've seen that rendered differently. I've seen that rendered differently. This is what it means to be a king. This is what it means to be a king. This is what it means to be a king. This, it seems, is what it means to be a This, it seems, is what it means to be a This, it seems, is what it means to be a king. There's a couple of different ways king. There's a couple of different ways king. There's a couple of different ways you'll see it translated, you'll see it translated, you'll see it translated, but you know, the discussions over what but you know, the discussions over what but you know, the discussions over what he really mean. Is he taking a shot at he really mean. Is he taking a shot at he really mean. Is he taking a shot at the Persians for thinking that that's the Persians for thinking that that's the Persians for thinking that that's what this means, or is he just in what this means, or is he just in what this means, or is he just in general awe? Remember, the Persians are general awe? Remember, the Persians are general awe? Remember, the Persians are the inheritors of the great ancient the inheritors of the great ancient the inheritors of the great ancient empires, one right after another that go empires, one right after another that go empires, one right after another that go all the way back to, you know, the all the way back to, you know, the all the way back to, you know, the Acadians. Acadians. Acadians. I mean, this is really, really ancient I mean, this is really, really ancient I mean, this is really, really ancient stuff. And Alexander is the first stuff. And Alexander is the first stuff. And Alexander is the first European to find himself in a position European to find himself in a position European to find himself in a position to start bathing in the exquisitely to start bathing in the exquisitely to start bathing in the exquisitely jeweled baths of the people who are the jeweled baths of the people who are the jeweled baths of the people who are the inheritors of that level of royalty. inheritors of that level of royalty. inheritors of that level of royalty. It's something human beings have shown a It's something human beings have shown a It's something human beings have shown a propensity to getting used to propensity to getting used to propensity to getting used to and history shows it's often fatal if and history shows it's often fatal if and history shows it's often fatal if you do.

you do. you do. What's interesting, of course, is that What's interesting, of course, is that What's interesting, of course, is that the Greeks knew all about it. It was the Greeks knew all about it. It was the Greeks knew all about it. It was their entertainment stock in trade, for their entertainment stock in trade, for their entertainment stock in trade, for example, to talk about how people like example, to talk about how people like example, to talk about how people like the kings of Persia were undermined by the kings of Persia were undermined by the kings of Persia were undermined by their luxury and opulence and the yesmen their luxury and opulence and the yesmen their luxury and opulence and the yesmen and the women in the herum and the and the women in the herum and the and the women in the herum and the bowing and the scraping and the Well, it bowing and the scraping and the Well, it bowing and the scraping and the Well, it wasn't Sauron's ring that Alexander put wasn't Sauron's ring that Alexander put wasn't Sauron's ring that Alexander put on his finger here. It was Lord Actton's on his finger here. It was Lord Actton's on his finger here. It was Lord Actton's ring, the one inscribed on the inside ring, the one inscribed on the inside ring, the one inscribed on the inside with the words absolute power corrupts with the words absolute power corrupts with the words absolute power corrupts absolutely. absolutely. absolutely. And even though he was a king, Alexander And even though he was a king, Alexander And even though he was a king, Alexander came from a culture that had more of, we came from a culture that had more of, we came from a culture that had more of, we could say maybe a first among equals could say maybe a first among equals could say maybe a first among equals kind of kingship. And he's moving into kind of kingship. And he's moving into kind of kingship. And he's moving into an area where if not the god kings of an area where if not the god kings of an area where if not the god kings of Egypt, because the Persian rulers were Egypt, because the Persian rulers were Egypt, because the Persian rulers were not god kings, but they were demiggod not god kings, but they were demiggod not god kings, but they were demiggod kings. kings. kings. And here we have a ruler in young And here we have a ruler in young And here we have a ruler in young Alexander who already reportedly has a Alexander who already reportedly has a Alexander who already reportedly has a tendency to wonder about his parentage tendency to wonder about his parentage tendency to wonder about his parentage and whether it's completely human or and whether it's completely human or and whether it's completely human or maybe a little bit divine and his mother maybe a little bit divine and his mother maybe a little bit divine and his mother might not be helping that tendency.

might not be helping that tendency. might not be helping that tendency. And now he finds himself beginning to And now he finds himself beginning to And now he finds himself beginning to inherit inherit inherit subjects who are used to treating their subjects who are used to treating their subjects who are used to treating their king as somebody more than human king as somebody more than human king as somebody more than human already. already. already. Well, Well, Well, this sort of thinking about oneself as this sort of thinking about oneself as this sort of thinking about oneself as potentially godlike. potentially godlike. potentially godlike. There's a little bit of a drug aspect to There's a little bit of a drug aspect to There's a little bit of a drug aspect to that that that can make you feel very heady, I imagine. can make you feel very heady, I imagine. can make you feel very heady, I imagine. Although I've never been in that Although I've never been in that Although I've never been in that position, but like so many of the really position, but like so many of the really position, but like so many of the really dangerous drugs out there, you can dangerous drugs out there, you can dangerous drugs out there, you can overdose. overdose. overdose. And what happens to you as a historical And what happens to you as a historical And what happens to you as a historical figure if you do? figure if you do? figure if you do? Well, maybe as we move forward, Well, maybe as we move forward, Well, maybe as we move forward, that's what we're going to find out. that's what we're going to find out. that's what we're going to find out. Is Alexander the Great a cautionary Is Alexander the Great a cautionary Is Alexander the Great a cautionary tale? tale? tale? Well, let's just say that the stage is Well, let's just say that the stage is Well, let's just say that the stage is perfectly set for one of those Greek perfectly set for one of those Greek perfectly set for one of those Greek morality tales or the vulgate tradition morality tales or the vulgate tradition morality tales or the vulgate tradition version of the Alexander story where we version of the Alexander story where we version of the Alexander story where we get a chance to watch the same sort of get a chance to watch the same sort of get a chance to watch the same sort of power that has intoxicated rulers from power that has intoxicated rulers from power that has intoxicated rulers from time immemorial, time immemorial, time immemorial, the numbers of which it's almost crazy the numbers of which it's almost crazy the numbers of which it's almost crazy think of themselves as more than human think of themselves as more than human think of themselves as more than human after a while. Although, listen, this is after a while. Although, listen, this is after a while. Although, listen, this is not a world of of a one god. If somebody not a world of of a one god. If somebody not a world of of a one god. If somebody claims to be Jesus Christ, we lock them claims to be Jesus Christ, we lock them claims to be Jesus Christ, we lock them up in a mental institution today. If you up in a mental institution today. If you up in a mental institution today. If you walk around saying you're a son of Zeus

walk around saying you're a son of Zeus walk around saying you're a son of Zeus or something like that, you just start or something like that, you just start or something like that, you just start doing the math. Say to your buddy, doing the math. Say to your buddy, doing the math. Say to your buddy, "Well, you know, it's possible. I got "Well, you know, it's possible. I got "Well, you know, it's possible. I got around." The point is is it's not quite around." The point is is it's not quite around." The point is is it's not quite the claim back then to say you're divine the claim back then to say you're divine the claim back then to say you're divine than it is now. There was a lot more than it is now. There was a lot more than it is now. There was a lot more gods running around. The odds were gods running around. The odds were gods running around. The odds were better, better, better, but you're separating yourself from the but you're separating yourself from the but you're separating yourself from the rest of the species. rest of the species. rest of the species. And this is something the ancient And this is something the ancient And this is something the ancient writers talked about. The ancient writers talked about. The ancient writers talked about. The ancient moralists love this story because it's moralists love this story because it's moralists love this story because it's it's Icorus all over again, isn't it? it's Icorus all over again, isn't it? it's Icorus all over again, isn't it? And at this point in the Icarus story, And at this point in the Icarus story, And at this point in the Icarus story, Alexander's really starting to gain Alexander's really starting to gain Alexander's really starting to gain altitude and those wings seem awesome altitude and those wings seem awesome altitude and those wings seem awesome and the sun's getting closer and he and the sun's getting closer and he and the sun's getting closer and he hasn't yet noticed that the wax is hasn't yet noticed that the wax is hasn't yet noticed that the wax is heating up. But when you become intoxicated, But when you become intoxicated, not just on power, but on your own not just on power, but on your own not just on power, but on your own greatness and the idea that you're more greatness and the idea that you're more greatness and the idea that you're more than human and you're going to be the than human and you're going to be the than human and you're going to be the best and you're going to do things no best and you're going to do things no best and you're going to do things no one else has done and you're going to one else has done and you're going to one else has done and you're going to push the limits of history.

push the limits of history. push the limits of history. Well, just be careful your wings don't Well, just be careful your wings don't Well, just be careful your wings don't melt. Wrath of the Cons, Funic Nightmares, Wrath of the Cons, Funic Nightmares, Apache Tears, and of course, Ghosts of Apache Tears, and of course, Ghosts of Apache Tears, and of course, Ghosts of the Ostfront. Just a few of the classic the Ostfront. Just a few of the classic the Ostfront. Just a few of the classic hardcore history titles available from hardcore history titles available from hardcore history titles available from dancarlin.com. dancarlin.com. dancarlin.com. Every true fan has heard these Every true fan has heard these Every true fan has heard these favorites. Hey, they make great gifts, favorites. Hey, they make great gifts, favorites. Hey, they make great gifts, too. too. too. >> If you think the show you just heard is >> If you think the show you just heard is >> If you think the show you just heard is worth a dollar, Dan and Ben would love worth a dollar, Dan and Ben would love worth a dollar, Dan and Ben would love to have it. Go to dancarlin.com for to have it. Go to dancarlin.com for to have it. Go to dancarlin.com for information on how to donate to the information on how to donate to the information on how to donate to the show. There's an old phrase that keeps show. There's an old phrase that keeps show. There's an old phrase that keeps popping into my head. popping into my head. popping into my head. A bird in the hand is worth two in the A bird in the hand is worth two in the A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. bush. bush. And it's a hunting idea, a bird hunting And it's a hunting idea, a bird hunting And it's a hunting idea, a bird hunting idea that better to bag a single bird idea that better to bag a single bird idea that better to bag a single bird with a conservative sort of approach with a conservative sort of approach with a conservative sort of approach than to gamble and reach and you know than to gamble and reach and you know than to gamble and reach and you know end up end up end up having had a chance maybe at two and having had a chance maybe at two and having had a chance maybe at two and going home with none. I think about that going home with none. I think about that going home with none. I think about that when we get to where we are in this when we get to where we are in this when we get to where we are in this story upcoming story upcoming story upcoming because the crowd that would suggest because the crowd that would suggest because the crowd that would suggest that everything we've seen up until this that everything we've seen up until this that everything we've seen up until this point in the story we could have seen it point in the story we could have seen it point in the story we could have seen it if Philip had lived if Alexander's dad if Philip had lived if Alexander's dad if Philip had lived if Alexander's dad had not been assassinated. This could had not been assassinated. This could had not been assassinated. This could have been Philip doing all this. And have been Philip doing all this. And have been Philip doing all this. And that's not impossible to imagine.

that's not impossible to imagine. that's not impossible to imagine. Important to remember though that after Important to remember though that after Important to remember though that after the battle of the river Granicus, Philip the battle of the river Granicus, Philip the battle of the river Granicus, Philip had he done it would have inherited from had he done it would have inherited from had he done it would have inherited from the great king would have snatched from the great king would have snatched from the great king would have snatched from the great king uh Anatolia, modern-day the great king uh Anatolia, modern-day the great king uh Anatolia, modern-day Turkey, which is like four or five times Turkey, which is like four or five times Turkey, which is like four or five times what he already possessed in terms of what he already possessed in terms of what he already possessed in terms of land and resources would have turned him land and resources would have turned him land and resources would have turned him into sort of a regional superpower. It into sort of a regional superpower. It into sort of a regional superpower. It would have been an enormous enormous would have been an enormous enormous would have been an enormous enormous thing. Some people would have been okay thing. Some people would have been okay thing. Some people would have been okay with that. That might have been the bird with that. That might have been the bird with that. That might have been the bird in the hand for some people. But maybe, in the hand for some people. But maybe, in the hand for some people. But maybe, you know, Philillip is not the sort of you know, Philillip is not the sort of you know, Philillip is not the sort of guy to maybe stop after an easy victory guy to maybe stop after an easy victory guy to maybe stop after an easy victory like the Granus. So easy to see Philip like the Granus. So easy to see Philip like the Granus. So easy to see Philip doing this too. As we had said, when you doing this too. As we had said, when you doing this too. As we had said, when you have an army like Philip had and you have an army like Philip had and you have an army like Philip had and you have this wealth imbalance between a have this wealth imbalance between a have this wealth imbalance between a sort of a restless Macedonia who's now sort of a restless Macedonia who's now sort of a restless Macedonia who's now subdued Greece and what are they going subdued Greece and what are they going subdued Greece and what are they going to do now? Well, Persia's right there, to do now? Well, Persia's right there, to do now? Well, Persia's right there, can't even defend themselves. It's, you can't even defend themselves. It's, you can't even defend themselves. It's, you know, was drawing the Macedonian army. know, was drawing the Macedonian army. know, was drawing the Macedonian army. How far was it going to draw them after How far was it going to draw them after How far was it going to draw them after the battle of Isus?

the battle of Isus? the battle of Isus? You know, you could basically say uh a You know, you could basically say uh a You know, you could basically say uh a giant chunk of the Persian Empire is giant chunk of the Persian Empire is giant chunk of the Persian Empire is probably yours. And the fact that the probably yours. And the fact that the probably yours. And the fact that the great king got away, even if Aryan and great king got away, even if Aryan and great king got away, even if Aryan and those people, you know, will call him those people, you know, will call him those people, you know, will call him cowardly and all that sort of stuff, cowardly and all that sort of stuff, cowardly and all that sort of stuff, well, he lives to fight another day. well, he lives to fight another day. well, he lives to fight another day. He's still out there ready to make He's still out there ready to make He's still out there ready to make deals, ready to raise armies. I mean, deals, ready to raise armies. I mean, deals, ready to raise armies. I mean, Persia still existing and Alexander Persia still existing and Alexander Persia still existing and Alexander still has to deal with it because Das still has to deal with it because Das still has to deal with it because Das got away. got away. got away. But this is the point in the story But this is the point in the story But this is the point in the story upcoming where the fact that Alexander upcoming where the fact that Alexander upcoming where the fact that Alexander is Alexander drives the story forward in is Alexander drives the story forward in is Alexander drives the story forward in a way that it almost certainly wouldn't a way that it almost certainly wouldn't a way that it almost certainly wouldn't have gone otherwise because we're going have gone otherwise because we're going have gone otherwise because we're going to start to see people peel off uh from to start to see people peel off uh from to start to see people peel off uh from this what what do we refer to this this what what do we refer to this this what what do we refer to this Macadonate? this startup company that's Macadonate? this startup company that's Macadonate? this startup company that's um you know with this disruptive um you know with this disruptive um you know with this disruptive technology some of these really early technology some of these really early technology some of these really early founders in the in the enterprise under founders in the in the enterprise under founders in the in the enterprise under Philip these people are going to start Philip these people are going to start Philip these people are going to start to look at what they've won and think to look at what they've won and think to look at what they've won and think that's awesome you know a bird in the that's awesome you know a bird in the that's awesome you know a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush and hand is worth two in the bush and hand is worth two in the bush and they're dealing with a guy who's they're dealing with a guy who's they're dealing with a guy who's operating with a completely different operating with a completely different operating with a completely different sort of metric.

sort of metric. sort of metric. He's not counting the money. He's not counting the money. He's not counting the money. He's not trying to, you know, just be He's not trying to, you know, just be He's not trying to, you know, just be one of the great conquerors out there in one of the great conquerors out there in one of the great conquerors out there in his day and age. his day and age. his day and age. He's playing, as we said earlier, and He's playing, as we said earlier, and He's playing, as we said earlier, and this has always been part of the guy's this has always been part of the guy's this has always been part of the guy's appeal. He's he's playing for a appeal. He's he's playing for a appeal. He's he's playing for a celestial position here, a greatest of celestial position here, a greatest of celestial position here, a greatest of all time position. He's clearly drawn um all time position. He's clearly drawn um all time position. He's clearly drawn um in a way that makes his psychology in a way that makes his psychology in a way that makes his psychology fascinating to historians ever since fascinating to historians ever since fascinating to historians ever since because we all want to know, you know, because we all want to know, you know, because we all want to know, you know, what are this guy's motivations? And the what are this guy's motivations? And the what are this guy's motivations? And the reason it matters is because when is reason it matters is because when is reason it matters is because when is enough enough? I mean, what are this enough enough? I mean, what are this enough enough? I mean, what are this guy's victory conditions ever? guy's victory conditions ever? guy's victory conditions ever? I mean, he's going to become a poster I mean, he's going to become a poster I mean, he's going to become a poster child, you know, for a guy who's child, you know, for a guy who's child, you know, for a guy who's addicted to conquest, a guy who has addicted to conquest, a guy who has addicted to conquest, a guy who has a mania for subjugation. a mania for subjugation. a mania for subjugation. More on this More on this More on this in part five of mania for subjugation.