The Diadochi (/daɪˈædəkaɪ/; singular: Diadochus; from Greek: Διάδοχοι Diadochoi, "successors") were the rival generals, families, and friends of Alexander the Great who fought for control over his empire after his death in 323 BC. The Wars of the Diadochi mark the beginning of the Hellenistic period from the Mediterranean Sea to the Indus River Valley.