What were Alexander's lasting contributions to society?
Read widely and carefully. Take good notes.
http://brainmass.com/history/ancient-mediaeval-history/339392
http://lnbhistory.blogspot.com/2011/09/alexander-greats-contributions-to.html
http://scholar.google.com/scholar?q=%22alexander+the+great%22&btnG=&hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C44
Alexander the Great, a prominent figure in history, made several lasting contributions to society. Some of his key contributions include:
1. Spread of Greek culture: Alexander's conquest of the Persian Empire led to the spread of Hellenistic culture throughout the territories he conquered. He established several Greek-style cities, known as Alexandrias, which became centers of learning, art, and architecture. Greek language, philosophy, and literature were introduced in these regions, leaving a long-lasting impact on their cultures.
2. Advancement of knowledge: As Alexander expanded his empire, he took along scholars and scientists who documented and recorded information about the lands he encountered. The famous Greek philosopher, Aristotle, was one of his teachers, which influenced his viewpoint on the importance of knowledge. His efforts in collecting and preserving knowledge, especially in the field of geography and natural history, contributed to the foundation of scientific exploration for future generations.
3. Infrastructure development: Alexander initiated extensive infrastructure projects in the territories he conquered. This included the construction of roads, bridges, and even the famous Siege of Tyre, where he built a causeway to connect the mainland to the island city. These developments not only facilitated trade and communication but also left a lasting impact on the regions by promoting economic growth, connectivity, and urbanization.
4. Integration of cultures: Alexander encouraged the blending of different cultures and promoted a policy of cultural fusion. He married several women from different ethnic backgrounds, encouraging intermarriage and fostering unity between different peoples. This cultural integration helped to bridge gaps between societies and laid the foundations for future multiculturalism.
Overall, Alexander the Great's contributions to society were wide-reaching and left a lasting impact on the lands he conquered. His spread of Greek culture, advancement of knowledge, development of infrastructure, and promotion of cultural integration shaped the course of history in significant ways. Knowing about Alexander's conquests and influence on society not only provides historical insight but also helps us understand the roots of many present-day cultural and societal dynamics.