Arguably the most brilliant and courageous warrior in recorded history. In the year 334 BC, a 20-year-old military commander from Northern Greece set out to conquer what was then the known world. His name was King Alexander of Macedon. During the next 12 years, he led 40,000 troops more than 20,000 miles, defeating the most powerful ruler on Earth, King Darius of Persia, and conquering all of Asia. He died of a battle wound at the age of 32, but his legendary conquests have been celebrated and studied for more than 2000 years. Today, we know him as Alexander the Great.

Originally broadcast on television in 2004. Special features: The making-of "The true story of Alexander the Great' featurette.