In today’s History newsletter: Scientists discover the T-rex’s missing ancestor, why the Mongols stopped their European conquest, and how this Spanish city became the holy grail of pilgrimages.

But first: How Alexander the Great’s “daddy issues” reshaped the world.

 ALEXANDER: ALAMY/ CORDON PRESS; PHILIP: ALBUM

Alexander had a love-hate relationship with his father, King Philip II of Macedonia. While at times he appeared to be the clear heir, polygamy made the path to royal succession much more complicated.

More stories:
— After Alexander the Great’s death, this Indian empire filled the vacuum
— Alexander the Great’s warrior mom wielded unprecedented power

JUDGES 4:21. BIBLIA PORTA, FRANCE 13TH CENTURY. BIBLIOTHÈQUE CANTONALE ET UNIVERSITAIRE DE LAUSANNE, U 964, FOL. 76V

BRIDGEMAN/ACI

The fastest sport on two wheels, chariot racing thrilled fans in packed arenas across Roman lands. But while crowds cheered, the elite condemned—and even exploited—their passions.

BEFORE YOU GO: Consider this—you may have more Neanderthal DNA than you think.

Thanks for reading today’s newsletter, edited and curated by Jennifer Baik and produced by Alisher Egamov. Catch our latest Photo of the Week every Sunday—and sign up here to get our future adventures in your inbox.