On June 13, 323 B.C., Alexander the Great died in the palace of Nebuchadnezzar II in Babylon, at the age of 32. Alexander’s death marked the end of an era in which he had created one of the largest empires of the ancient world, stretching from Greece to northwestern India. His conquests spread Greek culture throughout the known world, initiating the Hellenistic period, which saw the blending of Asian and Greek cultures. His sudden death led to the eventual division and fall of his empire, as his generals fought for control, profoundly influencing the political landscapes of the subsequent centuries.