Antiochus III

Quick Facts: Who was Antiochus III?

Subject:

Antiochus III

Known for:

Sixth ruler of the Seleucid Empire, known for expanding authority across Asia Minor and earning the epithet 'the Great'.

Born:

242 BC

Died:

187 BC

Century / Era:

-242s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Antiochus III the Great (; Ancient Greek: Ἀντίοχος ὁ Μέγας, Antíokhos ho Mégas; c. 241 BC – 3 July 187 BC) was the sixth ruler of the Seleucid Empire, reigning from 223 BC to 187 BC. Ascending to the throne at the age of eighteen, Antiochus inherited an empire in turmoil after the death of his brother, Seleucus III Ceraunus. While his initial campaigns against Ptolemaic Egypt ended in failure, he spent the decade that followed successfully reasserting Seleucid authority over territory such as central Asia Minor, Parthia and Bactria.

Career & Major Achievements

Pressing as far as the Kabul valley, he renewed a friendship with the Indian king Sophagasenus and earned himself the epithet "the Great" (Antiochos Megas). He also assumed the title Basileus Megas (Greek for 'Great King'), the traditional title of the Persian kings.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Upon his return to the west, Antiochus launched another campaign against the Ptolemies and brought Coele-Syria, Phoenicia and Judea under Seleucid control. Antiochus's designs on the Greek city-states earned him the antagonism of the Roman Republic.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 242 BC: Birth of Antiochus III — Sixth ruler of the Seleucid Empire, known for expanding authority across Asia Minor and earning the epithet 'the Great'.
2. 187 BC: Passing & Historical Legacy — Antiochus III passed away on -187, leaving an enduring historical legacy.

Notable Quotes by Antiochus III

“Champion of Greek freedom against Roman domination”

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Antiochus III

True or False: “True or false: Antiochus III successfully maintained Seleucid control over all of mainland Greece after his initial campaigns.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. While he campaigned in mainland Greece, his designs ultimately led to a devastating four-year war against Rome, which severely undermined his control over the region.

Contemporary Figures & Related Historical Timelines

• Antiochus III the Great — Contemporary (Born in -242) (-242): Seleucid King who expanded his empire to its zenith, earning the title 'the Great'.
• Lian Po — Contemporary figure (Died in -243) (-243): A renowned general of the Zhao state during China's tumultuous Warring States period.
• Empress Lü — Contemporary figure (Born in -241) (-241): Founding Empress of Han China, wielding immense power as regent and paramount authority.
• Aratus — Contemporary figure (Died in -240) (-240): A foundational Greek didactic poet, best known for his work on celestial and weather phenomena.
• Callimachus — Contemporary figure (Died in -240) (-240): Pioneering Hellenistic poet, scholar, and librarian of Alexandria.
• Hasdrubal Barca — Contemporary figure (Born in -245) (-245): Punic general famous for his role in the Second Punic War against Rome.
• Antigonus II Gonatas — Contemporary figure (Died in -239) (-239): Macedonian ruler who stabilized the Antigonid dynasty and defeated the Gauls.
• Ennius — Contemporary figure (Born in -239) (-239): Considered the father of Roman poetry, Ennius was a prolific writer during the Roman Republic.
• Ptolemy II Philadelphus — Contemporary figure (Died in -246) (-246): Pharaoh and Basileus of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, reigning from 284 to 246 BC.
• Masinissa — Contemporary figure (Born in -238) (-238): Founding King of Numidia, pivotal leader during the Second Punic War.
• -242 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from -242
• -187 Historical Timeline & Archive — Explore world events and figures from -187

Frequently Asked Questions about Antiochus III