AUTHOR

Robert Holmes

Robert has an MA in Ancient and Medieval History and a BA in Archaeology. He is an independent historian and author who specializes in the Military History of the Ancient and Medieval World and has published over forty articles on related topics. Originally from Massachusetts, he now lives in South Carolina where he works doing public history leading tours, giving lectures, and educating people about the local history.

Education:Villanova University, 2013MA Ancient & Medieval HistoryLycoming College, 2011BA History & ArchaeologyExpertise:

Ancient Military History

Medieval Military History

Archaeology

Medieval Gunpowder Weapons

Ancient Arms and Armor

Medieval Arms and Armor

Member since: May 10, 2020Location: United StatesPublished posts: 49

Articles by Robert Holmes

Alexander the Great’s Final Campaign: The Siege of Mallia (325 BCE)

Battle of the Hydaspes, 326 BCE: Alexander vs. Porus in India

When Alexander marched into the Indian subcontinent, he planned to extend his empire. At the Battle of Hydaspes, Indian King Porus had other ideas.

Siege of the Sogdian Rock, 327 BCE: Alexander’s Winged Men

Alexander’s conquest of Sogdiana and Bactria was met with dogged resistance. Unable to face him on the battlefield, many locals retreated to the Sogdian Rock.

Battle of the Jaxartes (329 BCE): Alexander’s Spectacular Victory

Marching deep into Asia, Alexander decided on the Jaxartes River as the border of his empire. His choice was contested at the Battle of Jaxartes.

Battle of the Persian Gate: An Achaemenid Thermopylae, 330 BCE

Following Alexander’s string of victories, the Macedonians were poised to march on the Achaemenid heartland. They met opposition at the Battle of the Persian Gate.

Battle of Gaugamela (331 BCE): Alexander’s Achaemenid Armageddon

Battle of Issus (333 BCE): Alexander the Great vs. Darius III

The battle of Issus was the first time Alexander and Darius faced each other in battle.

Alexander’s Destruction of Thebes in 335 BCE (Battle & Aftermath)

How Did Alexander the Great Untangle the Gordian Knot?

Alexander the Great was challenged to untangle the legendary Gordian Knot. It was prophesied that whoever did so would rule all of Asia.

Battle of the Granicus (334 BCE): Alexander’s Conquest Begins

When Was Gunpowder Invented? The History of Gunpowder

Developed in 10th-century China, gunpowder changed how we live, even though it was sometimes considered demonic. But modern guns don’t use gunpowder.

History of Chariots: 10 Types from Ancient Cultures Explained

The chariot was a fast, light, open cart drawn by horses used for many centuries by cultures across the Ancient World.