The Wisdom of Alexander the Great: Enduring Leadership Lessons from the Man Who Created an Empire

FROM THE PUBLISHER

History is densely populated with powerful leaders whose ability to inspire their charges led to substantial successes and some measure of greatness. But no person has ever lived whose leadership was so absolute as to equal Alexander, King of Macedonia. As a military commander, he defeated forces that dwarfed his own. As a statesman, he brought entire nations to his side through a mix of diplomacy and intimidation. And as an icon, he would become known the world over as, simply, Alexander the Great. The Wisdom of Alexander the Great identifies the unique leadership qualities of Alexander, and provides a framework for developing, adapting, and applying these same qualities to 21st-century business. Readers facing seemingly intractable situations will learn how Alexander made a habit of reframing problems: Knowing he could not defeat the Persian navy in conventional sea battle, he stayed on land and cut off their supply of fresh drinking water. Alexander also stands out as an expert at building alliances: After the battle at Hydaspes, Alexander not only spared the life of the defeated King Porus, he also restored and enlarged Porus's kingdom, thus securing the loyalty of his family for generations.

He was also a master at establishing identity. After defeating King Darius at Issus, he befriended members of the royal family, and later married into the family, establishing his identity as the new Persian king. Alexander further built his reputation and legacy by directing symbols. In almost every city he conquered, he ingratiated himself by taking part in local religious customs. He is said also to have solved the mystery of the famed Gordian Knot, forever linking him to local legend. The Wisdom of Alexander the Great shows how this almost impossibly young leader combined ruthless efficiency on the battlefield with an uncanny understanding of human nature to build an empire that at its height included some 90 percent of the known world. Filled with examples from organizations including Apple Computer, General Motors, Ben and Jerry's, and the U.S. Marine Corps, this eye-opening book demonstrates how the hallmarks of great leaders are as timeless as they are universal.

SYNOPSIS

Beginning with Alexander the Great's "r￯﾿ﾽsum￯﾿ﾽ" and a map of his conquests, Kurke (management, Duquesne U.) presents the fourth century BC leader as a good role model—despite some glaring flaws—for current business executives. Among the lessons to be learned from him are having a bold vision, building alliances, "branding" oneself as a unifier, and inspiring loyalty. The bibliography includes ancient and modern sources. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

FROM THE CRITICS

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