Background
336 BC - Alexander, also known as Alexander the Great, becomes king of Macedonia at the age of 20. Alexander the Great had influenced and taken power over the ancient world. His father was able to unite Greek city-states and Alexander destroyed the Persian Empire forever. His conquest spread Greek culture, also known as Hellenism, across his empire.
- The Persian Empire
- One of the superpowers in its time
- Ruled by Darius I, one of Alexander’s greatest rival
- The city of Persepolis and the Royal Road were constructed
Cultural Diffusion
Cultural diffusion is the spreading of cultural beliefs and activities from one region to another. Alexander the Great worked to spread Greek culture throughout his empire. Elements of this culture included the Greek language, alphabet, architecture, and government. Alexander saw the bringing together of different cultures as an opportunity to consolidate his empire.
Alexander also adopted the cultures of the nations that he conquered. For example, while he was in Persia, he dressed in Persian clothing and married the daughter of the king.
Alexander also adopted the cultures of the nations that he conquered. For example, while he was in Persia, he dressed in Persian clothing and married the daughter of the king.
- three ways that Alexander encouraged cultural diffusion.
- He developed politically independent Greek city-states.
- He taught the Greek language to other cultures.
- He brought together cultures to unite the empire.
- He encouraged marriages between Persian women and Macedonian soldiers.
One benefit of cultural diffusion is the ability to communicate with others. When people have a common language and alphabet, it’s much easier to talk to others and share ideas. It also provides an opportunity to spread new ideas and discover different ways of thinking. A drawback of cultural diffusion is the loss of cultural identity, traditions, and languages. People could quickly lose the customs, celebrations, and stories that made their culture rich and unique.
Conclusion
Through cultural diffusion, horizons are broadened and people become more culturally rich. His empire ushered in significant cultural changes in the lands he conquered and changed the course of the region’s history.
Conclusion
Through cultural diffusion, horizons are broadened and people become more culturally rich. His empire ushered in significant cultural changes in the lands he conquered and changed the course of the region’s history.
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