an archers failed to protect the landfrom Alexanders pursuit. Alexanders Companion Cavalry marched down across theriver and annihilated the Persian infantry line. Now the path was cleared to reach thePersian center comprised mainly of Greek mercenaries. The mercenaries held their ownfor a short while against Alexanders phalanx, but soon they would realize they werebeing surrounded. The mercenaries realized they lost and retreated. Alexanders mainfocus now was Darius himself.The main goal of the Battle of Issus was to capture or kill Darius. Alexander gotvery close to Darius yet not close enough. Alexanders army got close enough to whereDariuss kinsmen were fighting hand-to-hand in order to protect their king. Dariussforces were being wounded quickly left and right. His only option was to stay alive, so hisbodyguard took him and fled. Darius left his leaderless army at this point to fend forthemselves. Once again Alexander emerges victorious yet without his goal - Darius.Through the years Alexander swept the Persians away from the coast of Phoeniciaand in 332 drove them out of Egypt, a land they had held for two centuries. The Egyptianswelcomed him as a liberator and recognized him as their pharaoh. Alexander and hisarmy marched on to Tyre and met great opposition. The Tyrians fought off Alexandersarmy as long as they could but soon enough they too would surrender their city toAlexander. One year later Alexander and Darius would meet again. On October 1st 331 BC , Alexanders troops pursue Darius into the town ofGaugamela. The Battle of Gaugamela10 would later be called one of the most decisive inhistory. Alexander once again showed great war-skills by luring the Persians into apremature assault to weaken the backbone of their army. At the same time the Persiansattacked Alexanders right and made a gap in the phalanx. Through this gap the Persiansswept around Alexanders army and had a chance at victory. Alexander made quickdecisions and r...
