Alexander the Great’s extraordinary childhood
HistoryExtra podcast
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The Early Life of Alexander the Great
Alexander was born in 356 BC in Pella, then the capital of ancient Macedon. His father was one of the greatest Macedonian kings in history. If it wasn't for Alexander, it would be Philip Alexander's father who would be called the Great. He was a fantastic charismatic leader and really revolutionized the kingdom. Around about the age of seven, he started his education. The story goes that no one else could calm this wild stallion down when it was taken out to be appraised by the royal court. And Alexander realised that the horse was shying at its own shadow - so he bet his father on him riding off into the sunrise.
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