Alexander writes to Darius III

In a letter addressed to Darius III, Alexander the Great articulated his belief that he was more deserving of the throne than Darius himself. This correspondence occurred during a period of intense conflict between the Macedonian forces and the Persian Empire. Alexander's military campaigns had already begun to destabilize Persian control over its territories, and his assertion of superiority was part of a broader strategy to undermine Darius's authority. Despite his claims, the widespread rejection and resistance from the Persian populace made it clear that Alexander could not effectively position himself as Darius's legitimate successor. The loyalty of the Persian people remained a significant barrier to his ambitions, as they were not ready to accept a foreign ruler, even one who claimed to be a rightful heir to the throne. Following the death of Darius III, Alexander faced a new challenge in the form of Bessus, who had declared himself as Artaxerxes V. In response, Alexander reaffirmed his position as the avenger of Darius III, seeking to legitimize his rule by framing his conquests as a continuation of Darius's legacy. This narrative was crucial for Alexander, as it not only justified his military actions but also aimed to win over the Persian subjects by presenting himself as a protector of their former king. The dynamics of power during this period were complex, with Alexander navigating both military conquest and the intricate politics of legitimacy in a land that had a rich history of governance and cultural identity.