Ancient History Lives

Over the last 2,000 years, ambitious men have dreamed of forging vast empires and attaining eternal glory in battle, but of all the conquerors who took steps toward such dreams, none were ever as successful as antiquity’s first great conqueror. History for Kids: The Illustrated Life of Alexander the Great provides an entertaining look at the facts and myths surrounding one of history’s most famous men and conquerors, while exploring the lasting legacy he left.

Nearly all kinds of ancient mythology and religions were constructed from early civilizations trying to make sense of their surroundings. The idea of science was completely unknown to them; rather they explained natural phenomena as done by mythical deities. In Greek mythology this is how we come to certain instances like Apollo, the sun god, or Zeus, the god of the heavens and sky.

Roman historian Suetonius first introduces Claudius in his biography of Augustus, describing the boy as having various issues with his mental and physical health. Though he grew healthier after becoming emperor, "Life of Claudius" portrays him in a mixed light. While Suetonius tells of how Claudius was the first to invade Britain in a 100 years, he also paints the man as a fool who was easily swayed by others. Though historians today perceive Claudius as a more competent ruler, this dramatic biography held primary sway over public opinion for centuries.