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Seleucus I Nicator (c. 358 BC – September 281 BC; Ancient Greek: Σέλευκος Νικάτωρ, romanized: Séleukos Nikátōr, lit. 'Seleucus the Victor') was one of the Diadochi, that is, the rival generals, relatives, and friends of Alexander the Great who fought for control over his empire after his death. Having previously served as an infantry general under Alexander the Great, he eventually assumed the title of basileus and established the Seleucid Empire over the bulk of the territory which Alexander had conquered in Asia.
After the outbreak of the Wars of the Diadochi, Seleucus initially supported Perdiccas, the regent of Alexander's empire. However, Perdiccas proved inept, and Selecus joined in the plot to assassinate him in 321 or 320 BCE. During a brief peace, Selecus became Satrap of Babylon, but was driven out by Antigonus I Monophthalmus when fighting resumed in 320 BCE. Seleucus retook Babylon in 312 BCE. For the next thirty years, Seleucus reconquered and ruled the eastern half of Alexander's former empire.
At the time of his death, Seleucus was the last diadochus. He'd played a role in the defeat of Antigonus 301 BCE and Lysimachus in 281 BCE. Ptolemy I of Egypt died in 282 BCE, the year before Seleucus' death. Seleucus' himself was assassinated in 281 BCE as he prepared to conquered Thrace and Macedon. He was killed by Ptolemy Ceraunus, the son of Ptolemy I, who'd taken refuge with Seleucus.
Seleucus in Hellenic Traders[]
In 310 BC, Seleukos was one of six remaining generals who were fighting over the bones of Alexander's empire. He was "squabbling" with Antigonos in inner Asia.[1]
- This article or subsection is a stub because the work is part of a larger, as-of-yet incomplete series.
References[]
- ↑ Over the Wine-Dark Sea, loc. 380, ebook.
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| Preceded by New creation Independence from Macedon under Alexander IV, King of Asia |
Seleucid King 305–281 BC |
Succeeded by Antiochus I Soter |
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