People > Ariobarzanes

Ariobarzanes

Background

Ariobarzanes is a name associated with several historical figures, primarily from the ancient regions of Persia (Iran) and Anatolia (Turkey). These individuals played significant roles in the political and military history of their times. Below are details about some of the most notable figures named Ariobarzanes:

Ariobarzanes of Persis

1. Ariobarzanes (Died 330 BCE):
   • Role: Satrap of Persis (a region in southwestern Iran) under the Achaemenid Empire.
   • Historical Significance: Ariobarzanes is most famous for his defense against Alexander the Great during the latter's invasion of Persia.
   • Battle of the Persian Gate: In the winter of 330 BCE, Ariobarzanes led a last-ditch defense at the Persian Gate, a narrow mountain pass in the Zagros Mountains. Despite being heavily outnumbered, he and his troops held off Alexander's forces for several days. His resistance was ultimately overcome, but his bravery is noted as a significant act of resistance during Alexander's conquest of Persia.

Ariobarzanes of Cappadocia

1. Ariobarzanes I Philoromaios (Reigned 95–63 BCE):

   • Role: King of Cappadocia, a region in central Anatolia (modern-day Turkey).
   • Historical Context: Ariobarzanes I was placed on the throne by the Roman Senate, which sought to counteract the influence of Mithridates VI of Pontus.
   • Reign and Achievements: His reign was marked by frequent conflicts with Mithridates VI and internal strife. Despite being expelled multiple times by his enemies, he was restored each time with Roman support.
   • Abdication: He eventually abdicated in favor of his son, Ariobarzanes II, due to ongoing instability and pressure.

2. Ariobarzanes II Philopator (Reigned 63–51 BCE):

   • Role: King of Cappadocia.
   • Historical Context: Ariobarzanes II continued his father’s pro-Roman policy and maintained the kingdom’s alliance with Rome.
   • Challenges: His reign faced internal revolts and external threats, but he managed to retain his throne with Roman assistance.

3. Ariobarzanes III Eusebes Philoromaios (Reigned 51–42 BCE):

   • Role: King of Cappadocia.
   • Historical Context: He succeeded Ariobarzanes II and continued the pro-Roman stance of his predecessors.
   • End of Reign: His reign ended during the Roman civil wars, and he was succeeded by Archelaus, who was also supported by the Romans.

Ariobarzanes of Media Atropatene

1. Ariobarzanes (Late 1st century BCE – Early 1st century CE):
   • Role: Ruler of Media Atropatene, a region corresponding to modern-day Iranian Azerbaijan.
   • Historical Context: Media Atropatene was a client state of the Roman Empire and the Parthian Empire.
   • Reign and Relationships: Ariobarzanes is known for maintaining a delicate balance between the influence of Rome and Parthia. He was married to a daughter of Artavasdes I of Armenia, strengthening his political alliances.

Conclusion

The name Ariobarzanes is associated with various historical figures who played important roles in the political and military history of their regions. From the brave defense against Alexander the Great by Ariobarzanes of Persis to the rulers of Cappadocia who navigated the complex relationships with Rome and local powers, these figures left a significant mark on their times. Their legacies highlight the interplay of local and imperial forces in the ancient world and the enduring impact of their leadership and resistance.

Sources

Warning: include(/home/humanityhistory/public_html/addons/domains/alexander-the-great.org/links/people-links.php): failed to open stream: No such file or directory in /home/humanityhistory/public_html/addons/domains/alexander-the-great.org/people/ariobarzanes.php on line 66

Warning: include(): Failed opening '/home/humanityhistory/public_html/addons/domains/alexander-the-great.org/links/people-links.php' for inclusion (include_path='.:/opt/cpanel/ea-php73/root/usr/share/pear') in /home/humanityhistory/public_html/addons/domains/alexander-the-great.org/people/ariobarzanes.php on line 66