The Macedonian Empire Titles

Main titles of the Macedonian imperial hierarchy under Alexander the Great:

• Basileus (King): The supreme ruler of the Macedonian Empire, who had absolute authority over the military, the administration, and the religion. The title of basileus was exclusive to Alexander and his family, and was not shared with other rulers. Alexander also became the leader of the Hellenic League, a federation of Greek states that supported the Macedonian hegemony¹²
• Diadochus (Successor): The title given to the generals and governors who divided the Macedonian Empire after the death of Alexander the Great. They fought among themselves for control of the empire, and eventually formed three main dynasties: the Antigonids in Macedonia and Greece, the Ptolemies in Egypt, and the Seleucids in Asia¹²
• Satrap (Governor): The title given to the provincial governors who administered the regions of the Macedonian Empire. They were appointed by Alexander or the diadochi, and had considerable autonomy and power. They collected taxes, maintained order, and raised troops for the empire. Some of them rebelled against the central authority and established their own kingdoms¹²
• Hetairos (Companion): The title given to the elite cavalrymen who formed the personal guard and the shock troops of Alexander. They were loyal to Alexander and accompanied him in battle and in court. They were drawn from the Macedonian nobility and the Greek allies, and enjoyed high status and privileges. They were also involved in politics and diplomacy, and some of them became diadochi or satraps¹²
• Phalangites (Infantrymen): The title given to the professional soldiers who formed the backbone of the Macedonian army. They were equipped with long spears called sarissas, and fought in tight formations called phalanxes. They were recruited from the Macedonian peasantry and the Greek mercenaries, and received regular pay and training. They were highly disciplined and effective in combat, and played a crucial role in the Macedonian conquests¹²
• Somatophylax (Bodyguard): The title given to the personal bodyguards of Alexander, who were selected from the hetairoi. They were seven in number, and were entrusted with the protection of the king’s life and the execution of his orders. They were also influential in the court and the army, and some of them became diadochi or satraps¹²
• Hypaspist (Shield-bearer): The title given to the elite infantrymen who formed the royal guard and the reserve force of the Macedonian army. They were equipped with shields and swords, and fought in close formation. They were recruited from the Macedonian nobility and the Greek allies, and received regular pay and training. They were loyal to Alexander and accompanied him in his campaigns¹²
• Strategos (General): The title given to the military commanders who led the various divisions of the Macedonian army. They were appointed by Alexander or the diadochi, and had considerable authority and responsibility. They planned and executed the military operations, and reported to the king or the regent. Some of them became diadochi or satraps¹²
• Epimeletes (Overseer): The title given to the civil administrators who supervised the affairs of the Macedonian Empire. They were appointed by Alexander or the diadochi, and had considerable power and influence. They oversaw the collection of taxes, the maintenance of public works, the enforcement of laws, and the promotion of culture. Some of them became diadochi or satraps¹²
• Philos (Friend): The title given to the close associates and advisors of Alexander, who enjoyed his favor and trust. They were drawn from the Macedonian nobility and the Greek allies, and had high status and prestige. They were involved in politics and diplomacy, and some of them became diadochi or satraps¹²