Berenice IV

AncientEmperorEgypt-77 — -55

Ptolemaic queen and older sister of Cleopatra VII.

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Quick Facts

Born

77 BCE

Died

55 BCE

Country

Egypt

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)39

Political (20%)28

Influence (20%)43

Legacy (20%)34

Leadership (15%)45

Strategy (15%)54

Total Score39.5

Berenice IV — Complete Timeline

58 BC

Accession as Queen of EgyptPolitical Action◆ Major

Berenice IV became queen of Egypt after her father Ptolemy XII Auletes was driven out by a popular revolt. She ruled as sole monarch, co-opting her sister Cleopatra VI Tryphaena as co-ruler. Her reign was marked by political instability and conflict with Rome.

AccessionPtolemaic DynastyRevolt

Impact: regional

56 BC

Marriage to ArchelausPolitical Action

Berenice IV married Archelaus, a high priest of Comana in Cappadocia, to strengthen her position. The marriage was opposed by Rome, which supported her father Ptolemy XII. This act further strained relations with the Roman Republic.

MarriagePolitical AllianceRoman Opposition

Impact: regional

55 BC

Execution by Ptolemy XIIPolitical Action◆ Major

After Ptolemy XII Auletes was restored to the throne with Roman military support, he ordered the execution of Berenice IV. She was killed for her usurpation and opposition to his rule. Her death ended her brief reign and consolidated Ptolemy XII's power.

ExecutionUsurpationRoman Intervention

Impact: regionaltragic