- Mass killings and the destruction of cities: Alexander's conquests were often marked by violence, including the destruction of cities and massacres of civilian populations. Notable examples include the destruction of Thebes in Greece, the razing of Tyre and Gaza, and the mass killing of the Sogdian nobility in Central Asia.
- Ruthless suppression of dissent: Alexander did not tolerate opposition or dissent within his empire. He executed several of his generals and other close associates, often on flimsy pretexts, and he was quick to punish those who disagreed with him or failed to obey his orders.
- Enforced cultural assimilation: Alexander attempted to unify his vast empire by imposing Greek customs, language, and culture on the conquered peoples. This policy of Hellenization met with resistance in some areas, particularly in the East, where local cultures and traditions were deeply ingrained.
- Excesses and hedonism: Alexander was known for his lavish lifestyle, indulging in excessive drinking and enjoying elaborate feasts and entertainments. His behavior could be erratic and unpredictable, and he often disregarded traditional norms and customs.
- Early death and succession issues: Alexander's premature death at the age of 32 left a power vacuum and plunged his empire into chaos. He did not appoint a clear successor, leading to a series of civil wars among his generals, known as the Wars of the Diadochi. These conflicts lasted for several decades and resulted in the fragmentation of Alexander's empire into multiple smaller kingdoms and territories.