Gnaeus Hosidius Geta

Quick Facts: Who was Gnaeus Hosidius Geta?

Subject:

Gnaeus Hosidius Geta

Known for:

Roman Senator and general active in the 1st century AD, known for campaigns in Mauretania.

Born:

20

Century / Era:

20s Historical Era Archive

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Gaius or Gnaeus Hosidius Geta ( GHET-ə; c. 20 – after 95 AD) was a Roman Senator and general who lived in the 1st century. Geta was a praetor some time before 42. In the latter year, commanding a legion, probably the Legio IX Hispana in the Africa Province, he was a part of Gaius Suetonius Paulinus' campaigns into Mauretania. Geta defeated Sabalus, a chief of the Mauri, twice, and after gathering as much water as could be carried, pursued him into the desert. Sabalus' forces were more used to the conditions and the legion's water began to run out.

Career & Major Achievements

A native friendly to the Romans persuaded Geta to perform a rain ritual used by his people and rain began to fall. The Romans' thirst was relieved and the Mauri, seeing the heavens come to their enemies' aid, surrendered. Geta and his legion were part of the Roman conquest of Britain, led by Aulus Plautius, the following year. Geta was almost captured in the Battle of the Medway in the early part of the campaign, but recovered and turned the battle so decisively that he received the ornamenta triumphalia, which was unusual as he had not yet been a Consul. He was a Legatus in Britannia about 45.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

An inscription found in Rome reveals that he became Suffect Consul in 49. Geta married, but the name of his wife is unknown. He had a daughter called Hosidia, born about the year 65. Hosidia married Marcus Vitorius Marcellus, a man of consular rank and a friend of the poet Statius. Hosidia and Marcellus had a son called Gaius Vitorius Hosidius Geta.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 20: Birth of Gnaeus Hosidius Geta — Roman Senator and general active in the 1st century AD, known for campaigns in Mauretania.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Gnaeus Hosidius Geta

True or False: “Gnaeus Hosidius Geta was granted the ornamenta triumphalia only after he had served as Consul.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The text states that receiving the ornamenta triumphalia was unusual because he had not yet been a Consul.

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