The Wars of Alexander's Successors 323 - 281 BC: Volume 2: Battles and Tactics

Diadochi successors translate Alexander’s legacy into evolving warfare, redefining tactics, sieges, and naval rivalries.

When the dying Alexander the Great was asked to whom he bequeathed his vast empire, he supposedly replied to the strongest. There ensued a long series of struggles between his generals and governors for control of these vast territories. Most of these Diadochi, or successors, were consummate professionals who had learnt their trade under Alexander and, in some cases, his father Philip. This second volume studies how they applied that experience and further developed the art of war in a further four decades of warfare. This is a period rich in fascinating tactical developments. The all-conquering Macedonian war machine developed by Philip and Alexander was adapted in various ways (such as the addition of war elephants) by the different successors according to their resources. Siege and naval warfare is also included.

Bob Bennett has a Certificate in British Archaeology and an MA in Classical Studies from the Open University. Mike Roberts has a degree in South East Asian Studies from Hull University. Both social workers by profession, they met and discovered their mutual enthusiasm for the ancient world over ten years ago and have been researching the Successors of Alexander the Great ever since, creating a website dedicated to the subject.

Mike Roberts is a social worker by training but has had a long-standing interest in the military history of the Classical world. He is the co-author (with his good friend Bob Bennett) of several well-received books: The Wars of Alexander’s Successors (volumes I and II); The Twilight of the Hellenistic World and The Spartan Supremacy. He lives in Dudley.