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Your ancestors came to Macedonia and the rest of Hellas [Greece] and did us great harm, though we had done them no prior injury. I have been appointed leader of the Greeks, and wanting to punish the Persians I have come to Asia, which I took from you.
Alexander The Great
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects Alexander's justification for his campaign against Persia, emphasizing historical grievances.

In this quote, Alexander the Great expresses his resolve to take revenge on the Persians for historical wrongs committed by their ancestors against his people. By framing his military campaign as a response to previous injustices, he legitimizes his actions and highlights the complexities of ancient conflicts, where historical animosities shape present encounters.

Themes

RevengeHistoryLeadershipConflictAncestors

In practice

Example use cases

In a historical debate about the consequences of past conflicts, this quote can illustrate the cyclical nature of revenge.

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