ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

132 BCE

In the year 132 BCE, a pivotal moment occurred within the Roman Republic's pre-Julian calendar system. This particular year has been denoted as 132 BC since the early medieval period, when the Anno Domini calendar era became widely adopted in Europe for naming years.

During this time, Publius Rupilius and Publius Popillius Lenatus served as consuls, marking a significant event in Roman history. The First Servile War came to an end with Rupilius quashing the rebellion, demonstrating his authority and leadership skills. Additionally, Scipio Nazica was sent by the Senate to Asia Minor, ostensibly to organize the province but actually aimed at avoiding potential repercussions from the population following the murder of Gracchus.

Rupilius' actions extended beyond Rome's borders as he suppressed a slave revolt in Sicily, executing over 20,000 individuals. Under his direction, approximately 75,000 people received land plots and were granted citizenship through the Agrarian Commission. Meanwhile, Publius Popillius Lenata oversaw the construction of the Via Popilia, a road connecting Capua to Regium.

In Asia Minor, King Antiochus VII invaded Judea, ravaging the country and besieging High Priest Hyrcanus in Jerusalem. Despite initial resistance, Hyrcanus ultimately surrendered, paying a ransom of 500 talents. The region also witnessed the rise of new states, such as Osroen, which emerged following the decline of Seleucid power.

In other parts of the ancient world, notable events unfolded. Cleopatra II revolted against her husband Ptolemy VIII Fiscon in Alexandria, prompting him to flee with his son and wife to Cyprus. In China, the Huanghe Dam breach occurred, while Mithridates VI Eupator was born as a Pontic king.

The year 132 BCE also marked the birth of Lucius Appulei Saturninus, a three-time popular tribune in ancient Rome, who would later become associated with the Proprietor of Macedonia. On the other hand, Eunus led rebellious slaves in Sicily, and Publius Cornelius Scipio Nazica was involved in organizing the murder of Tiberius Gracchus.

As the Roman Republic continued to expand its influence, events like the Consulate of Publius Popillius Laenas and Publius Rupilius took place in Rome. The