Duke Mu of Qin vs Mithridates VI

Duke Mu of Qin led campaigns against the Rong and Di barbarian tribes to the west, conquering twelve minor states and opening up 1,000 li of territory. This expansion strengthened Qin and secured its western flank.

Duke Mu formed an alliance with the state of Jin, marrying his daughter to Duke Hui of Jin. However, when Jin reneged on promises, Duke Mu attacked and defeated Jin at the Battle of Han, capturing Duke Hui.

Duke Mu supported the exiled prince Chong'er, sending troops to help him return to Jin and become Duke Wen. This act created a powerful ally but also a future rival who would challenge Qin's dominance.

Duke Mu's attempt to expand eastward was thwarted by Jin at the Battle of Yao. Qin forces were ambushed and destroyed in a narrow pass, forcing Duke Mu to abandon eastern ambitions and focus on the west.

Mithridates VI invaded the Roman province of Asia, conquering much of Anatolia. He ordered the massacre of an estimated 80,000 Roman and Italian residents in the Asiatic Vespers, provoking a Roman response under Sulla. The war ended with the Treaty of Dardanos in 85 BC.

Mithridates VI fought the Roman general Lucius Licinius Murena, who had invaded Pontus without authorization. Mithridates defeated Murena and forced a return to the status quo, but the war weakened his position and allowed Rome to regroup.

Mithridates VI launched a major war against Rome, initially achieving successes. However, the Roman general Lucullus defeated him at the Battle of Cabira in 72 BC, forcing Mithridates to flee to Armenia. The war continued under Pompey, who finally defeated Mithridates in 66 BC.

Mithridates VI was decisively defeated by the Roman general Lucullus at Cabira in Pontus. Mithridates fled to Armenia, losing his kingdom and much of his army. This battle marked the turning point of the Third Mithridatic War.

After being betrayed by his son Pharnaces II and besieged by Roman forces, Mithridates VI attempted suicide by poison. Having built immunity to poisons, he ordered a bodyguard to kill him with a sword. His death ended the Mithridatic Wars and the Kingdom of Pontus.