HST 1100 Module 4 - Hellenistic World How was Alexander able to amass his empire, and what might his rule have been like if he had lived longer? Alexander was the king of Macedonia, groomed for kingship by his father, P
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HST 1100 Module 4 - Hellenistic World How was Alexander able to amass his empire, and what might his rule have been like if he had lived longer? Alexander was the king of Macedonia, groomed for kingship by his father, Phillip. He amassed his empire with the use of advanced tactical skills used to win battles, well organized campaigns, merciless killings, and extensive conquests. He smothered rebellions, one specifically in Thebes where he killed most of the male inhabitants and sold the women and children into slavery. He would lay siege to port cities in order to prevent Persian control of the sea. If his rule had lasted longer, he may have made his subjects worship him as a deity. What were the main features of the political and military organization of the Hellenistic kingdoms, and how did the new political systems differ from those of Greek city-states? The Hellenistic kingdoms were organized into monarchies, where Greeks and Macedonians made up about 97% of the ruling class. They used military force to maintain rule. Greek culture was highly valued and prioritized, and learning Greek meant power. The cities' political institutions were modeled after the Greek polis, with councils, assemblies, and codes of law. However, the new cities differed greatly from Greek city-states. The citizens had to accept monarchies as a new way of life as opposed to monarchies. Additionally, citizens were dependent on the monarchies, which restricted their freedoms. Agriculture and trade lessened, as they were all owned by the king. What were the main social developments in the Hellenistic world? New opportunities for women- Women took a more active role in politics, freedom of movement, selling property, owning land, and pursuing education. This was primarily limited to upper-class women Education- New importance on education. The implementation of gymnasiums facilitated this. The state had an important role in overseeing the curriculum What achievements in literature, art, science, medicine, and philosophy occurred during the Hellenistic period? Literature- Outpouring of historical and biographical literature, the development of new comedy rejecting political themes and only seeking to entertain and arouse Art- Switch from idealism to emotional and realistic art, emphasis on the female nude Science- Separation of science from philosophy, science stood on its own, the development of scientific investigation, systematic observation as the basis of generalization. Adoption of the heliocentric view Medicine- Natural explanations and natural cures for disease, new understanding of
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