Agathocles of Syracuse vs Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus

Agathocles returned from exile and, with a mercenary army, overthrew the oligarchic government of Syracuse. He massacred thousands of wealthy citizens and established himself as tyrant, ruling Syracuse for the next 28 years.

Agathocles launched a daring invasion of Carthage's North African homeland while Syracuse was besieged by a Carthaginian army. He burned his ships to motivate his troops and won several battles, forcing Carthage to recall forces from Sicily.

Agathocles suffered a decisive defeat at the Battle of White Tunis against a Carthaginian army led by Hamilcar. The loss forced him to abandon his African campaign and return to Sicily, ending his attempt to conquer Carthage.

Agathocles was poisoned by his grandson Archagathus, who feared being passed over for succession. His death led to the collapse of his empire in Sicily and southern Italy, as his generals and enemies quickly divided his territories.

Pompey raised three legions from his family estates in Picenum and joined Sulla's campaign against the Marians in Italy. His successful recruitment and military actions earned him Sulla's favor and a command in Sicily and Africa.

Pompey was granted extraordinary command over the Mediterranean and 50 miles inland to eliminate piracy. He divided the sea into 13 districts and cleared the pirates in three months, demonstrating his logistical and naval capabilities.

Pompey received command against Mithridates VI of Pontus through the Lex Manilia. He defeated Mithridates, forced him to flee to the Crimea, and then reorganized the eastern provinces, annexing Syria and establishing client kingdoms.

Pompey, Caesar, and Crassus formed a private political alliance to advance their individual agendas. The pact allowed Caesar to secure the consulship for 59 BC and ensured ratification of Pompey's eastern settlements and land for his veterans.

Pompey commanded the senatorial army against Caesar at Pharsalus in Greece. Despite numerical superiority, his cavalry was routed and his infantry line broke. Pompey fled the battlefield, abandoning his army and his political cause.

Pompey fled to Egypt after Pharsalus, seeking refuge. On September 28, 48 BC, he was assassinated on the orders of the Egyptian court as he came ashore. His head was presented to Caesar, who reportedly wept at the sight.