how many battles did alexander the great won

Alexander's Unbreakable Streak: How Many Battles Did Alexander the Great Win?

By Laura MillerMarch 31, 2026

Alexander the Great, a exhibiting military prowess and strategic brilliance, is renowned in history for his conquests. But how many battles did this Macedonia king and mercenary army leader actually win? Let's explore the outcome of the most significant conflicts during his brief but resplendent reign, from 356 to 323 BCE.

The first major test of Alexander's might came at the Battle of Thebes, which he won decisively in 335 BCE. This victory enabled his later campaigns, as it demonstrated his prowess to the Greek city-states and quashed potential rebellions. But let's dive into his more renowned battles.

Crossing Into Asia Minor

Alexander's first major campaign was against the Persian Empire. The Battle of Granicus took place in 334 BCE, with Alexander's roughly 48,000-strong army facing around 100,000 Persian troops. Despite the vast numerical disadvantage, Alexander employed a clever tactic, attacking the most experienced Persian cavalry on the wings and outmaneuvering them. This battle was a resounding victory for the young king, marking the start of his Asian campaign.

Alexander the Great: Conqueror or Disruptor?

Battle of Issus

Two years later, the Battle of Issus (333 BCE) took place. This time, Alexander faced Darius III, the Persian king, and an army of around 600,000. Surrounded, Alexander ordered a charge straight at Darius, causing panic in the Persian lines. With the left wing of the Persian army collapsing, Darius fled, leaving Alexander with a decisive victory.

Siege of Tyre

The coastal city of Tyre (now Lebanon) refused to surrender to Alexander in 332 BCE. A siege lasting seven months ensued. Despite the city's defenses, Alexander's innovative building of a causeway linked Tyre to the mainland, allowing his army to win the victory. Tyre's surrender led to the crucifixion of its defenders and the enslavement of the population, showing the consequences of defying Alexander.

an info sheet describing the battle of hydras

the great - time line is shown in black and white, as well as an image of

Alexander the Great Facts & Worksheets | Teaching Resource

Conquest of Egypt and India

Alexander encountered no serious resistance as he conquered Egypt, with the Egyptians greeting him as a liberator from Persian rule. However, his campaign in India posed new challenges.

Battle of Hydaspes

In 326 BCE, Alexander faced Porus, a local ruler, at the Battle of Hydaspes. Despite having fewer elephants and relying on easily damaged chariots, Porus charged Alexander's phalanx, leading to a bloody battle. Ultimately, Alexander's better-suited tactics and exhausting the enemy's elephant reserve resulted in a victory. However, Alexander is said to have been so impressed by Porus' bravery that he restored him to his kingdom.

The Mallian Campaign

Alexander's final major battle was the Mallian Campaign in the Punjab. Despite winning against a coalition of Indian states, Alexander realized his army's limits, and lack of supply routes made further campaigns unfeasible. His soldiers mutinied, forcing Alexander to abandon his plans to conquer the entire Indian subcontinent.

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Blood-soaked battlefield where Alexander the Great won one of his most incredible victories 2,400 years ago uncovered

a group of men riding on the backs of horses next to each other in battle

Throughout his reign, Alexander the Great won 32 out of 33 battles he fought. The sole exception was his ambiguous defeat against the Mallian coalition, where he couldn't pursue further conquests due to his army's mutiny. Alexander's military genius and strategic prowess shaped the ancient world and left an indelible mark on history.