Alexander's father was Philip II, the king of Macedonia, who put together a great army and crushed his foes. Under his superb political leadership, the once fractious Greek city-states codified into a confederation. He controlled everything and used the Corithian League for his own conquests.

One of Philips many wives was Olympia, Alexander's mother and Daughter of the late king Epirus. It was due to no small feat on her own part, that her son, the young crowned prince, succeeded as mightily as he did. She had an iron will, and did everything to protect and advance Alexander's interests, constantly instilling the notion of greatness.

It was through his mother that Alexander could claim a lineage that included both Achilles, and at least indirectly, Hector, the two Great combatants of the Trojan War. This was to have a profound effect on Alexander, and his own self-awareness.

Philip as well, was deeply committed to Alexander's success. He was neither aloof, nor standoffish toward his son. And though he was away on many campaigns for long stretches, his attitude toward Alexander showed every indication of parental pride and affection. The feeling was unfortunately not mutual. To be sure, Alexander loved his father but also did everything in his power to distance himself from Philip. Even when he was older, and having achieved great success of his own, Alexander would minimize the influence and down-play the achievements of his father; but make no mistake, Philip built the empire with which Alexander would conquer the world.

Philip II was killed on the second day of his daughter's wedding. In an attempt to make it look like he wasn't a petty tyrant he was dressed in a white robe. After placing his bodyguards far behind him, one stepped forward and slew the king with a dagger. The assailant was then descended upon immediately and slaughtered in a hail of javelins.