Corbulo vs Gaius Suetonius Paulinus

Corbulo was appointed governor of Cappadocia and Galatia with command against the Parthians in Armenia. He reorganized the Roman army, restored discipline, and captured the Armenian capital Artaxata, installing a Roman client king.

Corbulo captured the Armenian city of Tigranocerta after a siege. The city surrendered without a major battle. Corbulo then crowned Tigranes VI as king of Armenia, a Roman client, solidifying Roman influence in the region.

After the Parthians reasserted control over Armenia, Corbulo was ordered to withdraw. He negotiated a compromise with the Parthian king Vologases I, agreeing that a Parthian prince, Tiridates, would rule Armenia as a Roman client, ending the war.

Nero, suspicious of Corbulo's popularity and military success, summoned him to Greece and ordered his execution. Corbulo was forced to commit suicide. His death removed a potential rival but also a capable general from the Roman command.

Suetonius Paulinus led a campaign against the druid stronghold of Mona (modern Anglesey). Roman forces crossed the Menai Strait, overwhelmed the druids and their supporters, and destroyed the sacred groves, suppressing Celtic religious resistance in Britain.

Suetonius Paulinus, as governor of Britain, commanded a smaller Roman force against the massive Iceni rebellion led by Boudica. His tactical use of terrain and disciplined legionaries resulted in a decisive Roman victory, ending the revolt and securing Roman control over Britain.

Despite his victory at Watling Street, Suetonius Paulinus was recalled to Rome by Emperor Nero. His harsh punitive measures against the Britons were deemed excessive by the new procurator, leading to his replacement and a more conciliatory policy in the province.

Suetonius Paulinus served as consul ordinarius for the year 66 AD, a high honor in the Roman state. This appointment recognized his military service and placed him among the senatorial elite during the later years of Nero's reign.