When the dying Alexander the Great was asked to whom he bequeathed his vast empire, he supposedly replied 'to the strongest'. There ensued a long series of struggles between his generals and governors for control of these vast territories. Most of these Diadochi (Successors), were consummate professionals who had learnt the art of war under Alexander and, in some cases, his father Philip. Few died a peaceful death and the last survivors of this tough breed were still fighting each other, in personal command of their armies, well into their seventies. Full of colourful characters, epic battles, treachery and subterfuge, it is a period with great appeal to anyone interested in ancient history and ancient warfare in particular. The wars shaped the map of the world from the Balkans to India for the next three centuries. This second volume focuses on the Diadochi's battles, examining the types of troops fielded, the composition of the armies and the tactics used. As well as the epic, yet relatively rare, set-piece land battles, the authors also look at sieges, naval warfare and the frequent frontier fighting through which each of these warlords defended their share of Alexander's legacy against all comers.

Book jacket.