Historians of Alexander the Great diligently chronicled his epic journey, ensuring that the conqueror’s legacy would endure through the annals of history. Alexander the Great’s remarkable life and conquests left an indelible mark on history. The documentation of his life and achievements was a crucial endeavor carried out by various individuals during and after his reign. These historians and chroniclers played a significant role in preserving the legacy of this legendary figure.
Here are 10 historians of Alexander the Great
1. Callisthenes of Olynthus
Callisthenes, a nephew of Aristotle, was among the earliest historians to document Alexander’s life. He accompanied Alexander on his campaigns and authored an account known as the “Alexander’s Anabasis.” His work provided valuable insights into the campaigns and the character of the young conqueror.
2. Ptolemy I Soter
Ptolemy I Soter, one of Alexander’s trusted generals, played a pivotal role in recording his life. After Alexander’s death, Ptolemy became the ruler of Egypt and founded the Ptolemaic dynasty. He authored a biography of Alexander that served as a primary source for later historians. He also established the Great Library of Alexandria.
3. Aristobulus of Cassandreia
Aristobulus, a historian who accompanied Alexander on his Asian campaigns, wrote an account of Alexander’s adventures. His work included detailed descriptions of battles, geography, and the customs of the regions they encountered.
4. Nearchus
Nearchus, an admiral in Alexander’s fleet, documented the epic voyage of the Macedonian navy from the Indus River to the Persian Gulf. His work provided invaluable information about Alexander’s maritime expeditions and the lands he explored.
5. Cleitarchus
Cleitarchus, another historian in Alexander’s entourage, composed an ambitious account of Alexander’s life and achievements. While his work is often criticized for exaggerations and embellishments, it contributed to the broader narrative of Alexander’s legacy.
6. Diodorus Siculus
Diodorus Siculus, a Greek historian of the 1st century BCE, compiled a comprehensive history of the world, including a section dedicated to Alexander the Great. His work incorporated information from various sources and provided a broader historical context for Alexander’s life.
7. Plutarch
Plutarch, a Greek biographer and essayist of the 1st century CE, penned a famous biography of Alexander as part of his “Parallel Lives” series. Plutarch’s work delved into the character and motivations of Alexander, making it a valuable psychological portrait.
8. Quintus Curtius Rufus
Quintus Curtius Rufus, a Roman historian of the 1st century CE, authored an extensive history of Alexander’s campaigns. His work offered a Roman perspective on Alexander’s life and conquests.
9. Arrian
Arrian, a Greek historian of the 2nd century CE, composed the “Anabasis of Alexander,” a detailed and well-regarded account of Alexander’s life and military campaigns. Arrian’s work drew extensively from earlier sources and provided a balanced and factual narrative.
10. Justin
Justin, a Latin historian of the 2nd century CE, wrote an epitome of Pompeius Trogus’s “Historiae Philippicae,” which included an account of Alexander the Great. Justin’s work aimed to provide a concise overview of Alexander’s life and conquests.
These historians, through their various writings and accounts, contributed to the enduring fascination with Alexander the Great. Their works continue to be studied and referenced by scholars and enthusiasts, shedding light on the life and times of one of history’s most extraordinary figures.