314 BC

Events in the Mediterranean Region

The year 314 BC was marked by significant events in the Mediterranean region, particularly in the context of the Diadoche Wars following the death of Alexander the Great.

### The Empire of Alexander the Great/Diadoche Wars

Antigonus I Monophthalmos launched a campaign against Syria, which was held by Ptolemy I. He besieged the city of Tyre for over a year, while Seleucus I, who served as Ptolemy's admiral, secured Cyprus and sailed into the Aegean.

### Alliances and Proclamations

Antigonus formed an alliance with Polyperchon, who controlled bases in the Peloponnese. Both leaders proclaimed the freedom of Greek cities, a move that was later echoed by Ptolemy against the will of his ally Cassander.

### Military Campaigns

In Caria, Ptolemy's general defeated Eupolemus, the general of Cassander, and captured him. Medios of Larissa, Antigonus' admiral, struck Cassander's fleet at Pydna, capturing 36 enemy ships. Meanwhile, Kassander besieged the city of Kyllene in Elis but was forced to lift the siege after Aristodemos, Antigonus' general, came to its aid.

Events in Ancient Rome

In ancient Rome, the year 314 BC saw significant events:

### Roman Conquests

The Romans took control of Sora and destroyed Luceria, a settlement that was later repopulated. The Samnite army infiltrated Campania and stood under Capua, but the Romans emerged victorious.

### Politics and Governance

Mark Petelius Libon and Gaius Sulpicius Long were consuls for the year. Dictator Gaius Menius resigned after his trial was acquitted, while Publilius Philo was also acquitted of charges.

Events in the Hellenistic World

In the Hellenistic world:

### Antigonus' Rise to Power

Antigonus entered Babylon with an army and was honored by Seleucus with royal gifts. However, he demanded an account of Babylonia's income, leading to a quarrel between them. Seleucus fled to Egypt with 50 comrades, but Antigonus sent a pursuit that failed to catch them.

### Coalition Against Antigonus

Cassander, Ptolemy, Seleucus (who had fled), and Lysimachus formed a coalition against Antigonus, presenting him with an ultimatum demanding the cession of certain provinces. In response, Antigonus moved his forces to Phoenicia.

Athenian Archon

The Athenian archon eponym for this year was Nicodor, who served in 314/313 BC.