In this Grade 4 lesson from Discovering Our Past: a History of the World, students learn how Philip II of Macedonia conquered the Greek city-states and how his son Alexander the Great built a vast empire stretching across Persia and beyond. The lesson covers key concepts including the Battle of Chaeronea, the rise of Macedonian military power, and the spread of Greek culture during the Hellenistic Era. Students also examine the characteristics of strong leadership through the accomplishments of both Philip II and Alexander the Great.
Section 1
Philip II Transforms Macedonia into a Superpower
King Philip II admired Greek culture and created a powerful army to conquer Greek city-states weakened by the Peloponnesian War. By 338 B.C., Philip controlled most of Greece through battles, bribes, and alliances.
Section 2
Alexander Conquers the Persian Empire
Alexander led 40,000 soldiers against Persia in 334 B.C. His cavalry defeated Persian forces at Granicus and Issus. After conquering Egypt and founding Alexandria, he destroyed Persian forces at Gaugamela.
Section 3
Greek Culture Spreads Throughout Conquered Lands
After Alexander's death in 323 B.C., his empire split into four kingdoms. The Hellenistic Era began as Greek language, ideas, art, and architecture spread across Southwest Asia and Egypt through new Greek settlements.
Section 4
Alexandria Becomes a Cultural Center
Founded by Alexander in Egypt, Alexandria grew into the largest Mediterranean city by 100 B.C. Its two excellent harbors, towering lighthouse, and vast library made it a hub of commerce and knowledge.
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Section 1
Philip II Transforms Macedonia into a Superpower
King Philip II admired Greek culture and created a powerful army to conquer Greek city-states weakened by the Peloponnesian War. By 338 B.C., Philip controlled most of Greece through battles, bribes, and alliances.
Section 2
Alexander Conquers the Persian Empire
Alexander led 40,000 soldiers against Persia in 334 B.C. His cavalry defeated Persian forces at Granicus and Issus. After conquering Egypt and founding Alexandria, he destroyed Persian forces at Gaugamela.
Section 3
Greek Culture Spreads Throughout Conquered Lands
After Alexander's death in 323 B.C., his empire split into four kingdoms. The Hellenistic Era began as Greek language, ideas, art, and architecture spread across Southwest Asia and Egypt through new Greek settlements.
Section 4
Alexandria Becomes a Cultural Center
Founded by Alexander in Egypt, Alexandria grew into the largest Mediterranean city by 100 B.C. Its two excellent harbors, towering lighthouse, and vast library made it a hub of commerce and knowledge.
Book overview
Jump across lessons in the current chapter without opening the full course modal.
Continue this chapter