Kingdom of Pergamon

Quick Facts: Who was Kingdom of Pergamon?

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Kingdom of Pergamon

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Hellenistic Greek state ruling Western Asia Minor, known for its powerful Attalid dynasty.

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Origins & Early Life

The Kingdom of Pergamon, Pergamene Kingdom, or Attalid kingdom was a Greek state during the Hellenistic period that ruled much of the Western part of Asia Minor (now Turkey) from its capital city of Pergamon. It was ruled by the Attalid dynasty (; Greek: Δυναστεία τῶν Ἀτταλιδῶν, romanized: Dynasteía ton Attalidón). The kingdom was a rump state that was created from the territory ruled by Lysimachus, a general of Alexander the Great. Philetaerus, one of Lysimachus' lieutenants, rebelled and seized the city of Pergamon and the surrounding regions; Lysimachus died soon after in 281 BC. The new kingdom was initially in a vassal-like relationship of nominal fealty to the Seleucid Empire, but exercised considerable autonomy and soon became entirely independent.

Career & Major Achievements

It was a monarchy ruled by Philetaerus's extended family and their descendants. It lasted around 150 years before being eventually absorbed by the Roman Republic during the period from 133–129 BC. Philetaerus rose from humble origins to become a lieutenant of Lysimachus, one of Alexander the Great's generals (diadochi), who ruled a large state centered around Byzantium. Philetaerus was trusted to manage the fortress of Pergamon and guard much of Lysimachus's treasury, and had 9,000 talents under his purview. At some point prior to 281 BC, Philetaerus deserted Lysimachus and rebelled, allegedly over fears of Arsinoe, Lysimachus's wife, who was accused of arranging the death of Agathocles, Lysimachus's son.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

In 281 BC, Seleucus I Nicator, another of Alexander's generals, defeated and killed Lysimachus at the Battle of Corupedium, while Seleucus himself was killed a few months later. Philetaerus offered his services to Seleucus and his successors of the Seleucid Empire, but enjoyed considerable autonomy. He extended his power and influence beyond just the city of Pergamon, making allies with neighboring city states. He contributed troops, money, and food to the city of Cyzicus, in Mysia, for its defense against the invading Gauls, thus gaining prestige and goodwill for him and his family. He built the sanctuary of Demeter on the acropolis of Pergamon, the temple of Athena (Pergamon's patron deity), and Pergamon's first palace.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Kingdom of Pergamon

True or False: “The Kingdom of Pergamon was directly absorbed by the Roman Republic in a single decisive battle during 133 BC.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): The absorption process was gradual, occurring over a period from 133–129 BC, rather than being concluded in one single battle.

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