How Did Alexander Win The Battle Of Gaugamela

Gaugamela was the perfect battlefield for Darius’s army and both leaders knew this. But, Alexander decided to take his chances and try to end the war with this battle on Darius’s land. As the Macedonian army set up camp overnight, Alexander was advised by his right-hand man Parmenion to attack Darius at that moment (Grant). It would have been the perfect surprise attack on the Persian army but, Alexander declined and said a surprise attack would be considered stealing a victory, so he decided to be fair and start the battle when Darius was ready (Grant). That night, Alexander went with some of his scouts to asses Darius’s army. Alexander came across some of Darius’s scouts and he decided to capture them (“Battle of Gaugamela”). In turn, he learned of any obstacles on the battlefield and most importantly, he learned of Darius’s numbers. Alexander prepared to battle Darius’s large army with his generals overnight, and had came up with many strategies for the fight the next morning.
The next day, Alexander’s army set up in their positions and advanced towards the Persians who were waiting for them. The
But, with his phalanx in a wedge, there was a gap in the Macedonian lines. A few Persians got through and continued on to raid the Macedonian camp. Also, another problem was arising, Parmenion and his flank had been surrounded and needed aid. Alexander and the phalanx had penetrated the Persian lines and were tearing them apart. At this point, many of the Persians decided to flee including Darius himself. Alexander was tempted to chase after Darius, but with his camp being raided and Parmenion surrounded, Alexander ordered his troops back. He then aided to Parmenion and slaughtered the Persians who were coming back from raiding his camp (“Battle of Gaugamela”). With exemplary leading, strategic planning, and patience, Alexander had earned one of the most decisive and stunning victories