In 326 B.C. Alexander III of Mecedon or Alexander the Great was ruler of the known world at only thirty years old.  You can imagine the military genius it took to accomplish such a feat, but have you ever thought of Alexander the Great as an excellent tax administrator?

The ancient world of Alexander the Great was burdened with heavy taxes from their governing bodies.  Alexander was able to quell the frustrations of the people he conquered by lowering their property taxes and investing half of what he collected back into public improvements.  Most of the people who fell under his rule paid fewer taxes than before and enjoyed more government financed improvements.

His genius property tax policy prevented many rebellions and contributed to Alexander’s ability to rule those he conquered with relative peace.  Who would have thought that good tax reform could be just as effective as a big sword?  Well maybe not just as effective....