"The Anabasis of Alexander" or "The History of the Wars and Conquests of Alexander the Great" is a historical account of the life and conquests of Alexander the Great, written by the Greek historian and philosopher Arrian of Nicomedia in the 2nd century AD. The work is based on the earlier histories of Alexander written by Callisthenes, Ptolemy, and Aristobulus, as well as Arrian's own personal experience as a military commander in the Roman Empire. The work is divided into seven books, each of which covers a particular period of Alexander's life and conquests. The first two books focus on Alexander's early life and his rise to power, including his ascension to the Macedonian throne and his early campaigns against the Greeks and Persians. The third and fourth books cover his conquest of Asia, including his battles against the Persian Empire and his legendary victories at Issus and Gaugamela. The fifth book describes Alexander's journey through Egypt and his conquest of the Persian capital of Babylon, while the sixth book covers his campaign in India and his eventual return to Babylon. The final book is a brief summary of Alexander's life and legacy, including the division of his empire among his generals after his death. Overall, "The Anabasis of Alexander" is an important historical document that provides a detailed and compelling portrait of one of the most remarkable figures in world history.
Arrian of Nicomedia (c. 86 – c. 160 AD) was a Greek historian, philosopher, and statesman. He was born in Nicomedia, a city in Bithynia (present-day Izmit, Turkey) and later moved to Athens to study philosophy under the tutelage of the philosopher Epictetus. Arrian began his career in politics as a senator under the Roman Emperor Hadrian and later served as the governor of Cappadocia, a province in eastern Turkey. During his time in public office, he gained a reputation as a just and fair administrator. Arrian's historical works were highly regarded by later historians and scholars for their accuracy and attention to detail. He was known for his meticulous research and his ability to synthesize disparate sources into a cohesive narrative. He also had a keen interest in military strategy and tactics, which is evident in his descriptions of Alexander's campaigns. Arrian's legacy as a historian and philosopher has endured to the present day. His works have been widely translated and studied, and his influence can be seen in the writings of later historians and philosophers, including Plutarch and Marcus Aurelius.
