ROME on Nostr: ANTONIUS AND ARMENIA In his campaign against Parthia in 36 BC, Antony initially ...

ANTONIUS AND ARMENIA

In his campaign against Parthia in 36 BC, Antony initially relied on Armenian support. However, during the siege of Phraaspa, the Armenian king, Artavasdes II, withdrew his cavalry, fearing a Parthian victory. This act of perceived betrayal deeply angered Antony.

In 34 BC, Antony launched a punitive expedition against Armenia. He tricked Artavasdes II into visiting his camp under false pretenses and then took him captive. Antony installed Artavasdes' brother, Tigranes IV, as the new king of Armenia, effectively making Armenia a Roman client state.

The relationship between Antony and Armenia remained volatile. Antony's later actions, particularly his extravagant lifestyle and alliance with Cleopatra, alienated many of his Roman supporters, including those who favored a more assertive policy in Armenia.

Antony's dealings with Armenia were driven by a desire to assert Roman dominance in the region and to punish perceived betrayals. His actions ultimately contributed to his downfall, as they further strained his relations with Rome and fueled Octavian's (later Augustus) rise to power.