Name: ______

Alexander and Pericles

Introduction
Pericles was one of Athen’s finest leaders. He ushered Athens into what historians refer to as the Golden Age of Greece. He was elected by the people and ruled Athens for 32 years, from 461-429 BCE.

About 130 years later, another strong leader emerged in this part of the world. Alexander conquered a large amount of territory in a remarkably short time. Despite his many invasions and conquests, he gained the respect of many of those he conquered by showing respect for local cultures. Although his empire was short-lived, it left an enduring Greek influence on the civilizations he conquered. In this activity you will learn more about Alexander's conquests in Southwest Asia.

Directions
Part I: Read about Pericles at then answer the questions that follow.

Part II: Read about Alexander in Persia at and Alexander in India at then answer the questions below.

Part III: Choose either Pericles or Alexander and write a resume for that person to become the “Supreme Ruler of the Ancient World.” Directions for this activity are on the website under “Leadership Resume” (

Part I: Pericles—Questions for Analysis

  1. What was Pericles’s family background like? Do you think his background was helpful to his later success?
  1. How did Pericles help sponsor the arts?
  1. How and when did Pericles get involved in politics?
  1. What new citizenship law did Pericles introduce? Do you think this was a good or a bad citizenship law?
  1. What was Pericles’s personal life like? Why do you think it was like this?
  2. For what project is Pericles most famous?
  1. Do you think Pericles was a good ruler? Why or why not?

Part II: Alexander—Questions for Analysis

1.What were two of Alexander's goals in Asia?

2. What is one example of Alexander's attempts to blend Greek and Persian cultures?

3.Who were the Brahmins? Describe Alexander's interaction with them.

4. How did Alexander treat important local rulers?

5. What does Alexander's treatment of conquered peoples and their leaders say about him as a person and as a leader? Did he act out of goodwill or were his actions calculated to achieve his military and political goals?

6. How would Alexander have been viewed by those he conquered?

Part III: Create a resume for a leader of your choice
Directions found at

You can find sample resume templates at:


Be sure to add powerful words when writing your resume! Don’t use “good” when “exceptional” will work better. Here are some words that could help:

Administered
Analyzed
Appointed
Assigned
Attained
Authorized
Chaired
Consolidated
Controlled
Converted

Coordinated
Delegated
Developed
Directed
Eliminated

Emphasized
Enforced
Enhanced
Established
Executed

Generated
Improved
Incorporated
Initiated
Inspected
Instituted
Led
Managed
Merged
Motivated
Navigated
Organized
Overhauled
Oversaw
Planned
Presided
Prioritized
Produced
Reorganized
Replaced
Restored
Secured
Streamlined
Strengthened
Supervised