Poison, Illness, or Something Else?
Alexander the Great died in Babylon in 323 BCE at just 32 years old, leaving behind a vast empire and a mystery that endures to this day.
The Final Days
Ancient accounts describe a sudden fever, weakness, and progressive paralysis. He remained mentally alert but unable to speak by the end.
Theories About His Death
Several explanations persist:
Poisoning – A popular idea but unlikely, as most toxins act faster than the 12 days his illness reportedly lasted.
Malaria or typhoid – Common in the region and consistent with recorded symptoms.
Autoimmune disorders – Some historians suggest Guillain-Barré syndrome.
Alcohol-related illness – Ancient texts describe a night of heavy drinking before symptoms began.
Why the Truth Is Hard to Find
Alexander’s body was never autopsied, and historical accounts differ. Political intrigue in his court may also have shaped later stories.
A Mystery That Continues
His death remains unsolved, contributing to the legend of a man whose life and end changed the ancient world.
