Battle of Gaugamala (Alexander The Great)

Essay by affyJunior High, 9th gradeB+, March 2009

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For two years, Alexander had occupied the Mediterranean coast of Egypt and hadn’t encountered any serious opposition; that changed when he traveled to a small plain called Gaugamela, or camels stall , modern day Mosel, Iraq. Alexander the great had never lost a battle due to his careful planning, tactical charges and advancements in weaponry, and he usually gained large amounts of land and slaves; the battle of Gaugamela was no different.

The night before the battle of Gaugamela, Alexander’s generals reported that Alexander should attack by night if he was to have the greatest chance of winning. Alexander refused saying that he was not any ordinary general, and wouldn’t act like one either. He then stayed up late at night planning how to attack, and didn’t get to sleep until late. Darius, however, was expecting a night attack and kept his troops up all night, a decision that caused his troops to be tired and fatigued for the battle the next day.

When the morning came and Alexander’s troops had assembled, Alexander was nowhere to be seen. His generals had to go to Alexander’s tent to find him still asleep. They woke him and he got quickly got changed into his armour, ready for the battle ahead.

When Alexander arrived at the plain of Gaugamela, he began setting his lan into action, sending infantry troops far down the right flank and getting them to lie down where they could not be seen. Alexander then ordered his phalanx, squads of large spear and shield bearing Greeks, to advance towards the enemy. While this was happening, Alexander led his cavalry to the right flank and they charged right. Darius sent his cavalry to follow them. When Alexander’s cavalry reached the troops he had sent before him, the infantry stood...