Ptolemy XII Auletes vs Seleucus I Nicator

Ptolemy XII Auletes became pharaoh of Egypt after the death of Ptolemy XI Alexander II. His reign was marked by political instability, economic decline, and increasing Roman influence. He was known for his pro-Roman policies and lavish spending.

Ptolemy XII was driven from Egypt by a popular revolt, likely due to his heavy taxation and pro-Roman stance. He fled to Rome, where he sought support for his restoration. His daughter Berenice IV took the throne in his absence.

Ptolemy XII was restored to the Egyptian throne with military support from the Roman governor of Syria, Aulus Gabinius. The Roman army helped him defeat the forces of Berenice IV. He executed his daughter and resumed his pro-Roman policies.

Ptolemy XII made a will naming the Roman Republic as the guardian of his children and the Egyptian kingdom. This will later be used by Julius Caesar to justify Roman intervention in Egypt after Ptolemy's death, leading to the Alexandrian War.

After the death of Alexander, Seleucus established control over Babylon and the eastern satrapies. He founded the Seleucid Empire, which stretched from Anatolia to India, and adopted the title of king. This marked the beginning of the Hellenistic period in the East.

Seleucus I Nicator fought against Antigonus I Monophthalmus at Ipsus. The allied forces of Seleucus, Lysimachus, and Cassander defeated Antigonus, who was killed. This battle solidified the division of Alexander's empire, with Seleucus gaining control of Syria and Mesopotamia.

Seleucus I founded the city of Antioch on the Orontes River, which became the capital of the Seleucid Empire. The city grew into a major center of Hellenistic culture, trade, and politics, rivaling Alexandria in importance.

Seleucus I was assassinated by Ptolemy Ceraunus, a son of Ptolemy I, while campaigning in Thrace. His death ended the last major Diadochi conflict and left the Seleucid Empire to his son Antiochus I, who faced challenges from within and without.