Battle of Grancius

Time Line

Battle of Grancius

334BCMiletus

334BCDisb

anding of the Fleet

334BCHalicarnassu

s

334BC

Rebuilding of the Fleet

333BC

Before the BattleAlexander wished to have control over Asia Minor which was currently

belonged to Persia. By taking control of Asia Minor Alexander would have the advantage of ruling the surrounding states of Persia giving him easy access and also it would cut of supplies to Persia, this helping Alexander in his quest to hunt down King Darius and kill him. Alexander was in Arisbe at the time when word spread that Persian satraps were gathered on the eastern side of the River Grancius. Parmenio adviced Alexander not to fight as it would be difficult to across the river at dawn but despite this the battle continued as Alexander knew that a victory in these difficult conditions would bring great morale to his troops. This was a huge risk that fortunately worked out for him. Alexander was aware that Darius would strengthen his left side in battle to face him and this weakening their centre, so of course it was not long before the Persian centre fell apart.

First Phase

• Macedonian cavalry diagonally charges across the river and attacks the Persian left.

• Persian left very strong and Alex’s cavalry suffers great casualties.

Second Phase

• Alexander and companions cross the river diagonally and attack Persian centre.

• Weakened Persian centre falls apart.

• Both Persian wings flee when centre falls apart.

Final Phase

• Rest of Alex’s army crosses river and surrounds the Greek Mercenaries.

• 18,000 mercenaries are killed.

• 2,000 are taken as prisoners.

Alexander’s Tactics