Thermopylae: The Battle Of Rome

Thermopylae was a natural choke point and had been the site of other battles like that of the 300 Spartans (Taylor 123). Antiochus’ army is formed of 14,500 men including 10,000 of his own infantry, 500 cavalry and, 4,000 of the Aetolian leagues’ and other allies (Taylor 124). The Roman army of 22,000 engaged the Seleucid one by initially driving Antiochus’ allies from the mountains bordering the pass (Appian, S.18). Then the Roman army properly attacked the phalanx but before long the fleeing allies drove Antiochus’ army into disarray. Antiochus and his army became fearful and fled in total disorder (Appian, S.19). The Romans lost 200 men; Antiochus lost 10,000 in the battle and subsequent pursuit. Antiochus himself fled with 500 horses all …show more content…
Antiochus was no longer waging a war of spears and arrows, but rather a war of words and diplomacy against the Romans. Antiochus continued in this fashion for the next two years of the “war”. When Antiochus failed to challenge them any further, a new Consul, Manlius Vulso, decided to strike out against the Cappadocians who occupied central Anatolia in search of glory for himself. The Romans were victorious in their endeavours, and retrieved for themselves gold and glory (Taylor 146). Finally, after a long lasting phony war and year-long negotiations, the Treaty of Apamea was drawn up to end the war. According to Appian, the text said “He must abandon Europe altogether and all of Asia this side of the Taurus” (Appian, S.38). Otherwise there was the obligatory tribute, restrictions on the Seleucid’s navy and military, and giving over of hostages. Finally there was the return of Romans POWs and property. The peace would strike a dire blow to the prestige and finances of Antiochus III. Antiochus’ situation would eventually lead to his untimely death by disgruntled locals after trying to raid a temple for money so as to again conquer lands (Taylor 147-151). Antiochus died as he lived, a