Archelaus of Cilicia
Roman client king of Cilicia Trachea and Eastern Lycaonia, descendant of Mithridates VI.
Quick Facts: Who was Archelaus of Cilicia?
- Subject:
- Archelaus of Cilicia
- Known for:
- Roman client king of Cilicia Trachea and Eastern Lycaonia, descendant of Mithridates VI.
- Born:
- 50 BC
- Died:
- 38
- Century / Era:
- -50s Historical Era Archive
- Verified Source:
- 2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives
Origins & Early Life
Archelaus (Greek: Ἀρχέλαος; born before 8 BC; died 38 AD) was a Cappadocian prince and a Roman client king of Cilicia Trachea and Eastern Lycaonia. He is sometimes called Archelaus Minor (Minor which is Latin for the younger) and Archelaus II to distinguish him from his father Archelaus of Cappadocia. Archelaus was named after the first Archelaus (his paternal great-great-grandfather), who was a general of King Mithridates VI of Pontus. He was the son and heir of the Roman Client King Archelaus of Cappadocia from his first marriage to a princess from Armenia and his sister was the Cappadocian princess Glaphyra. There is a possibility that his parents may have been distantly related.
Career & Major Achievements
His father was descended from Mithridates VI. His mother may have been a daughter of King Artavasdes II of Armenia of the Artaxiad dynasty. The father of Artavasdes II was Tigranes the Great, who married Cleopatra of Pontus, a daughter of Mithridates VI from his first wife, his sister, Laodice. Thus Artavasdes II was a maternal grandson to Mithridates VI and Laodice. Archelaus was the maternal uncle of Glaphyra's children: Tigranes, Alexander and her unnamed daughter.
Enduring Legacy & Impact
Little is known of Archelaus' life prior to becoming king. He was born and raised in Cappadocia and spent his later life at the harbour city of Elaiussa Sebaste. In 25 BC, the Roman Emperor Augustus gave his father extra territories to govern, among them Elaiussa Sebaste. After 25 BC, Archelaus and his family settled there, while his father developed the city, built a royal residence and a palace on the island in the harbour and renamed the city in honour of Augustus. When Archelaus' father died in 17 AD, Cappadocia became a Roman province and Armenia Minor was given to Artaxias III to be ruled as a Roman client state.
Chronological Milestones & Life Events
Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Archelaus of Cilicia
True or False: “Archelaus was the first client king to rule over Cilicia Trachea and Eastern Lycaonia after the Roman annexation of Cappadocia.”
Answer (FALSE ❌): While he ruled these territories, his father initially developed Elaiussa Sebaste before Archelaus assumed control following changes in Roman provincial status.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Archelaus of Cilicia
Who was Archelaus of Cilicia and what are their primary contributions?
Roman client king of Cilicia Trachea and Eastern Lycaonia, descendant of Mithridates VI. Origins & Early Life: Archelaus (Greek: Ἀρχέλαος; born before 8 BC; died 38 AD) was a Cappadocian prince and a Roman client king of Cilicia Trachea and Eastern Lycaonia. He is sometimes called Archelaus Minor (Minor which is Latin for the younger) and Archelaus II to distinguish him from his father Archelaus of Cappadocia. Archelaus was named after the first Archelaus (his paternal great-great-grandfather), who was a general of King Mithridates VI of Pontus. He was the son and heir of the Roman Client King Archelaus of Cappadocia from his first marriage to a princess from Armenia and his sister was the Cappadocian princess Glaphyra. There is a possibility that his parents may have been distantly related.
When was Archelaus of Cilicia born and during which historical era did they live?
Archelaus of Cilicia was born on -50 and passed away on 38. For complete historical world events during this era, explore the -50 Chrono-Archive.
Where can I read more verified chronological archives on Archelaus of Cilicia?
Explore verified primary sources, interactive timelines, and contemporary figures in the 2Day Chrono-Wiki encyclopedia or review the original entry on Wikipedia.
Source: Wikipedia