How would things be different?

[maciek]

Yes such speculations are nice - that's why I do think that we do not know how would persian aristocrats act if Darius would be killed in his first battle Issus. Maybe they would find new king and fight even better then? We can assume this because there was some strong individuals after his death - as Bessos, Spithridates, earlier was Bagoas. I don't think it was so easy if the king is missing all persian empire is surrendering.Now about Pyrrus - I think he was no so good commander as Alex - in fact he wasn't even close to him - he only sended his army against Romans and when fight was going elephants was drawn into battle - it was suprise for the Romans for two times and they loose - at third time they found way to beat them and they won - simple! With Alex it wouldn't be so easy! After first victory Alex as we know him would go furher to win all country not as the Pyrrus which was so proud that he was going to greek cities and complimenting himself that he beated Romans - instead of finnishing up they just borned and yet small empire.maciek