Explore Pompey the Great's conquests, governance, and political maneuverings in ancient Rome. From battles with pirates to diplomatic efforts in the East, delve into his journey through hostile lands like the Caucasus. Witness power struggles with influential figures like Caesar and Crassus, and the cultural contributions and personal tragedies that shaped Pompey's legacy.
Pompey establishes Roman dominance by defeating pirates and expanding influence in the Middle East.
Pompey's diplomatic success in Armenia paves the way for Roman client kingships and extended influence to the Red Sea.
Roman military might and Jewish piety are showcased by Pompey's meticulous siege of Jerusalem and temple conquest.
Pompey's piety and strategic foresight are evident through respecting local customs and religious practices during conquests.
Political challenges in Rome lead Pompey to form the First Triumvirate with Caesar and Crassus to consolidate power and counter opposition.
Deep dives
The Grand Funeral of Salah Felix
The splendid funeral procession of Salah Felix through Rome, highlighting the tribute by his loyal soldiers and the matrons' spice donations, signals him as Rome's greatest citizen ever.
Pompey's Rapid Pirate Campaign Success
Pompey's administration and swift actions led to clearing the Western Mediterranean from pirates within six weeks, securing vital grain supplies for Rome.
Consulting Postadonius for Eastern Pirate Strategy
Pompey's consultation with the polymath Postadonius in Rhodes shaped his unconventional strategy of listening to pirates' pleas, settling them in cities, and introducing them to a peaceful life.
Defeating Mithridates and Diplomatic Triumph in Armenia
Pompey's military prowess led to Mithridates' downfall and Pompey's diplomatic success in Armenia, establishing client kingships and extending Roman influence to the Red Sea and Judea, marking a new era.
Siege on Jerusalem and Pompey's Capture of the Temple
Pompey's meticulous siege tactics, including halting attacks on Sabbaths, culminated in the conquest of Jerusalem and capturing the temple, showcasing Roman military might and Jewish piety.
Conclusion: Pompey's Legacy in the East
Pompey's victories over Mithridates and in the Middle East, coupled with his strategic diplomacy, strengthened Rome's power, extended its influence, and set the stage for a lasting Eastern empire under Roman control.
Pompey's Complex Eastern Exploits
Pompey embarked on a series of remarkable conquests, gaining prestige and power through his victories. He displayed piety by respecting local customs and religious objects during his conquests, such as appointing new high priests and ensuring religious practices continued. Despite opportunities for plunder in Egypt, Pompey resisted temptation, elucidating his virtuous character and strategic foresight.
Political Maneuvering and Declining Fortunes
Upon returning to Rome, Pompey faced political challenges and rivals, including Krasis and Cicero. He navigated intricate Roman politics, seeking support from aristocratic families and attempting to secure land for his veteran troops. Despite efforts to court the aristocracy and maintain stability, Pompey encountered resistance from political enemies, leading to a decline in his popularity and influence.
Triumvirate Formation and Conflict Resolution
In a bid to counter opponents like Clodius, Pompey joined forces with Caesar and Crassus in the First Triumvirate. By leveraging their collective power, they obtained key appointments and pushed through legislation, including granting Caesar an extended military command. Pompey's role as grain commissioner and his construction of a grand theater showcased his ability to win over the Roman populace despite facing internal opposition.
Pompey becomes Rome’s greatest conqueror, and empire builder, but faces even greater trials back home in Rome.
People
Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus, "Pompey the Great" Sulla Felix, the Dictator
Pompey
The Pirates
Posidonius the Stoic
Mithridates VI Eupator, King of Pontus
Lucius Licinius Lucullus
Cicero, the Orator
Manilius, the Tribune
Julius Caesar
Theophanes of Mytilene
Queen Monime
Tigranes the Great of Armenia
Tigranes the Younger, Prince
Albani(ans) of Caucasus
Iberians of Caucasus
King Phraates of Parthia
The Parthians
Antiochus XIII, Seleucid King
Aretas, King of the Nabatean Arabs
Aristobulus of Judea
Hyrcanus of Judea
Aulus Gabinius
Josephus (Jewish Historian)
Marcus Licinius Crassus, Richest Man in Rome
Marcus Porcius Cato (the Younger)
Metellus Celer
Metellus Nepos
M. Calpurnius Bibulus
Publius Clodius Pulcher, Slum Lord
Milo
Julia
Domitius Ahenobarbus
Places
Sicily
Sardinia
Corsica
North Africa
Rhodes
Cilicia
Cappadocia
Galatia
Armenia
Artaxata
Mt Ararat
Sophene
Syria
Bithynia
Pontus
Caucasus
Colchis
Albania (Caucasus)
Iberia (Caucasus)
Bosphoran Kingdom (Crimea / Azov)
Damascus
Petra (Arabia)
Judea
Jordan River Valley
Jericho
Jerusalem
Campus Martius
Alban Hills / Lake / Villa
Luca
Image: The Triumph of Pompey, Gabriel de Saint-Aubin, 1765. Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art
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