Alexander the Great was the most successful general of the classical era, perhaps in all of human history. By the end of his life he controlled an empire that stretched from the Balkans to northern India, where he was worshipped as a god. David Lonsdale, who has studied Alexander's military techniques for more than ten years, explores in detail how Alexander developed and adapted the war machine created by his father, Philip, and shows how Alexander supplemented Greek infantry tactics with the innovative use of the specialist and elite units. Above all, he explains how Alexander perfected the cavalry charge as a battle-winning maneuver, based on relentless discipline and heroic leadership.

The development of Greek warfare -- Early tests: rebellions at home and the Battle of the Granicus -- Conquering the coast: bloody sieges and the Battle of Issus -- The Battle of Gaugamela and the fall of the Persian Empire -- Protracted war in the east: counter-insurgency and the Battle of the Hydaspes -- Conclusion: the origins of genius.