In what ways did Alexander's conquests affect connections between cultures in the ancient world? What were some of the effects of Alexander the Great's conquests and what was the most important lasting impact of Alexander's conquests? Why was Alexander's empire so short-lived? How did Hellenistic learning expand the impact of Greek culture? How did Alexandria become so rich? What gave Alexandria its importance in the ancient world? Why was the Great Library of Alexandria important? What is the most probable reason why Alexandria attracted great scientists and mathematicians?