Alexander the Great and Donald Trump: Parallels in Leadership, Ambition, and Global Influence | by Azuka Jemmy | Jan, 2025

Throughout history, leaders have emerged who sought to leave an indelible mark on their worlds. Among them, Alexander the Great, the ancient Macedonian king and conqueror, and Donald Trump, the 45th and now 47th President of the United States, stand out for their ambitious goals, distinctive leadership styles, and polarizing reputations. Despite the vast differences in their eras, intriguing parallels can be drawn between these two figures. This is particularly relevant as Trump continues to reshape modern geopolitics with aspirations like adding Greenland to the United States and reclaiming the Panama Canal as “America’s Canal.”

This article explores the similarities in their leadership, ambition, and strategies, examining how Trump’s contemporary actions mirror Alexander’s quest for dominance.

Ambitious Goals and Expanding Territory
One of the most striking parallels between Alexander the Great and Donald Trump is their shared ambition for territorial expansion. Alexander’s military campaigns created one of the largest empires in history, spanning from Greece to India. His vision of a unified empire under Greek influence was revolutionary for its time.

Trump, in his second non-consecutive term as President, has also set bold territorial aspirations. His renewed interest in acquiring Greenland aligns with his strategic focus on resources and geopolitical influence. Greenland’s mineral wealth and its location in the Arctic make it a potential asset for solidifying U.S. dominance in the region. This ambition mirrors Alexander’s drive to control key regions for both military and economic advantage.

Trump’s vision of reclaiming the Panama Canal as “America’s Canal” further emphasized his focus on securing crucial trade routes. The Panama Canal, a vital link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, holds both economic and symbolic significance. Reasserting control over it could redefine America’s role in global trade, much like Alexander’s conquests reshaped ancient commerce and cultural exchange.

Prophecies and Symbolism: Legends Surrounding Leaders
Alexander the Great’s life and conquests are not only recorded in historical texts but are also alluded to in biblical prophecy. In the Book of Daniel, Alexander is symbolically represented as the “he-goat” in Daniel 8:5–8, which describes his rapid rise to power and the eventual division of his empire. The prophecy foretells how the “goat,” coming from the west, would defeat the “ram” with two horns, symbolizing the Medo-Persian Empire. This accurately reflects Alexander’s swift conquest of Persia.

Furthermore, the prophecy’s depiction of the goat’s prominent horn breaking and giving rise to four smaller horns aligns with historical events: Alexander’s untimely death and the subsequent division of his empire among his four generals. This biblical narrative emphasized the profound impact of Alexander’s life and the divine significance attributed to his rise and fall.

Modern parallels exist in the narratives surrounding Donald Trump. Some political and religious commentators have framed his leadership within a larger divine or prophetic context. Predictions about Trump’s return to power as the 47th president often highlight his role as a transformative force in global politics.

Both leaders have been cast as larger-than-life personas, their actions transcending ordinary politics or military strategy to become symbols of change and ambition.

Leadership Styles and Commanding Presence
Alexander and Trump share leadership styles characterized by decisiveness, charisma, and the ability to inspire loyalty. Alexander’s soldiers were fiercely devoted, following him through arduous campaigns to fulfill his vision of empire. His direct engagement with troops fostered unity and a sense of purpose.

Similarly, Trump’s commanding presence in American politics has rallied a loyal base, often referred to as the “Trump Movement.” His unfiltered communication style, particularly through social media, allows him to bypass traditional political channels and connect directly with supporters. This approach echoes Alexander’s use of propaganda and cultural assimilation to solidify his rule.

Trump’s emphasis on American exceptionalism and his “America First” doctrine reflect a modern parallel to Alexander’s belief in the superiority of Greek culture. Both leaders have leveraged these narratives to justify their ambitions and galvanize their followers.

Polarization and Legacy
Polarization is a notable similarity between these two figures. Alexander’s legacy, though celebrated for spreading Greek culture and fostering exchange, also brought destruction and displacement. Similarly, Trump’s presidency has been marked by significant achievements and controversies, deeply dividing public opinion both domestically and internationally.

As Trump embarks on his second term, his bold initiatives, such as pursuing Greenland and reclaiming the Panama Canal, raise questions about his legacy. Will these efforts redefine America’s global role or face insurmountable challenges? This relentless pursuit of strategic dominance mirrors Alexander’s quest for greatness, which brought both glory and the eventual fracturing of his empire.

The Vision of Empire: Unity or Control?
Alexander sought to unify East and West under a single banner, while Trump’s policies focus on consolidating U.S. influence under the “America First” doctrine. Though their methods and contexts differ, the shared ambition to leave a lasting mark on history links these leaders across time.