Makers of History: Alexander the Great

Outnumbered and isolated, Alexander conquered the world thanks to his tactical brilliance, bravery, and tenacity.

Look Inside the Book

Get ready to be hooked by the complete story of his life—and learn about one of history's most famous warriors at the same time! Alexander the Great did what few men have done. He became king at age 20, and by the time he died at age 32, he had conquered the greatest empire in the world and led his army all the way to India. Thanks to Alexander, the Western world was forever shaped by Hellenistic culture, and the New Testament itself was written in Greek. Alexander's life is a thrilling adventure, a legend, and a story that should be a part of any child's education.

This thrilling biography—written by Jacob Abbott and newly edited for younger readers—offers a glimpse into the life of the man who conquered the known world, and then lost it all in a moment.

Alexander the Great is part of Makers of History, a 19th century biography series by two brothers—Jacob and John S.C. Abbott. Reprinted by Canon Press, these biographies have been edited and brought up-to-date for readers twelve and up. Not only are these editions given vintage style paperback covers, but they also include introductions that explain where these men and women fit into the timeline of history. It includes a foreword by Ben House.

From the Book

"Alexander the Great died when he was quite young. He was but thirty-two years of age when he ended his career, and as he was about twenty when he commenced it, it was only for a period of twelve years that he was actually engaged in performing the work of his life. Napoleon was nearly three times as long on the great field of human action. Notwithstanding the briefness of Alexander’s career, he ran through, during that short period, a very brilliant series of exploits, which were so bold, so romantic, and which led him into such adventures in scenes of the greatest magnificence and splendor, that all the world looked on with astonishment then, and mankind has continued to read the story since, from age to age, with the greatest interest and attention. The secret of Alexander’s success was his character. He possessed a certain combination of mental and personal attraction which in every age gives to those who exhibit it a mysterious and almost unbounded domination over all within their influence. Alexander was characterized by these qualities to a very remarkable degree." -From the book