Alexander the Great was one of the most successful military commanders in history, and was undefeated in battle. By the time of his death, he had conquered most of the world known to the ancient Greeks. In "Alexander the Great" Abbott recounts how Alexander ascended the Macedonian throne at the age of 20, overthrew his rival claimants, and then began preparations for the expedition against Persia. After defeating Darius, he proceeded to Egypt where he founded Alexandria, then turned back into Asia, where he subdued the most powerful nations, and in a span of eleven years conquered almost the entire known world. But, as his fortunes rose, his character deteriorated, and he died unexpectedly at the age of 33.