How was Alexander the Great related to Philip II of Macedonia?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Alexander the Great Alexander the Great, detail from Alexander and Porus, painting by Charles Le Brun, 17th century; in the Louvre, Paris, France.

Alexander the Great was the son of Philip II, who was the king of Macedonia from 359 to 336 BCE. Alexander was born to Philip II and his wife, Olympias, who was the daughter of King Neoptolemus of Epirus.12

Philip II laid the foundations for the expansion of Macedonia, which Alexander later continued. Following the assassination of Philip II in 336 BCE, Alexander succeeded him as king.12