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130s BC: A Decade of Conflict and Diplomacy

The years 130 BC marked a pivotal moment in world history, characterized by conflict, diplomacy, and the emergence of new powers. This decade saw significant events unfold across various regions, including China, Rome, Judea, and Central Asia.

In ancient China, Emperor Wu of Han (ruling from 141 to 87 BC) sought to expand his empire's influence in the west. In 139 BC, he dispatched diplomat Zhang Qian to form an alliance with the Yuezhi tribe against their common enemy, the Xiongnu. This marked the beginning of the Silk Road, a network that would connect China with Central Asia and Europe for centuries.

Meanwhile, in Spain, the Roman Empire continued its expansion under the leadership of Tautalus, who surrendered to the Romans in 138 BC. The same year saw the founding of Valencia as a Roman colony. In Judea, John Hyrcanus became high priest and prince (ruler) of the Jewish kingdom, marking an important period in Jewish history.

In Rome itself, the First Servile War broke out in Sicily in 139-132 BC, sparked by Syrian slave Eunus. The war had repercussions beyond Italy, affecting Athens and Delos. In Asia Minor, Aristonicos revolted against Rome from 133 to 129 BC, while Attal III of Pergamum bequeathed his kingdom to the Romans.

The decade also saw significant military campaigns. Scipio Aemilianus, victor of Carthage, took command in Spain against the Numantians in 134 SM. He constructed a defensive ring around seven fortresses and a palisade before besieging Numantia. The war between the Xiongnu and Han continued until 133 BC.

In Central Asia, the Kuchan Empire was founded by Tokharians from the Aral Sea, North India, and Afghanistan around 130 B.C. These refugees had been expelled from China by the Xiongnu and settled in Bactrian and Sogdian regions, eventually destroying the Greco-Bactrian kingdom.

Notable figures of this period include Antiochos VII, Attal III, Caius Papirius Carbo, Cleopatra II, Eunus, Scipio Nasica, Quintus Caecilius Metellus Macedonicus, Phraates II, and Zhang Q