“Who does not desire such a victory by which we shall join places in our Kingdom, so far divided by nature, and for which we shall set up trophies in another conquered world?”
- July 20, 356 BC – June 10, 323 BC
- Born in Macedonia
- King of Macedonia
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Quote
“Who does not desire such a victory by which we shall join places in our Kingdom, so far divided by nature, and for which we shall set up trophies in another conquered world?”
Explanation
This quote is attributed to Alexander the Great, though its exact wording and authenticity are debated by historians. It reflects the expansive ambition that characterized his military campaigns. Alexander sought not only to conquer but to unify disparate regions—bridging lands divided by geography and culture. The phrase “join places in our Kingdom” alludes to his vision of a cosmopolitan empire, where East and West would be fused under one rule.
The reference to “trophies in another conquered world” evokes the glory of military triumph, but also hints at imperial legacy and symbolic domination. Trophies in ancient warfare were not merely material spoils—they were markers of civilization’s advance into the unknown. Alexander’s intent was not just domination, but to transform and integrate new lands into his empire. This aligns with his efforts to adopt Persian customs and encourage intermarriage among his troops and locals, actions that shocked many Macedonians but illustrated his broader strategy.
In a modern context, this quote resonates with ambitious integration efforts across political, cultural, or technological domains. For example, the creation of the European Union sought to unify a continent long divided by war and geography. Similarly, technological infrastructure projects like global internet access aim to link isolated regions. The idea that natural division is not destiny, and that victory can mean connection rather than separation, remains a powerful and relevant vision.
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