What type of military formation was preferred by the Greeks and Alexander the Great, characterized by its rigidity and spear usage?

The military formation preferred by the Greeks and Alexander the Great is known as the phalanx. This formation was characterized by tightly packed ranks of soldiers, often referred to as hoplites, who wielded long spears, called sarissas. The soldiers would line up in several rows, with each row overlapping the spears of the rows in front. This not only provided a formidable front line with extended reach but also created a wall of points that was difficult for enemies to penetrate.

The phalanx's rigidity and cohesive nature were instrumental in the effectiveness of Greek warfare, allowing for both defensive and offensive maneuvers. The formation relied heavily on discipline and the ability for soldiers to move in unison, which made it a powerful tactic in battle, particularly in open terrain.

Other formations, such as the Roman legion, operated on different principles, focusing on flexibility and maneuverability with smaller, more mobile units. Decurions and scutums were also associated with different military strategies and troop configurations, further distinguishing the phalanx's unique characteristics and its historical significance in Greek military history.