Gotarzes II of Parthia

AncientEmperorParthian Empire20 — 51

Usurper Parthian king, killed his brother.

Compare Gotarzes II of Parthia with another historical figure:

Quick Facts

Born

Died

Country

Parthian Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)25

Political (20%)31

Influence (20%)43

Legacy (20%)34

Leadership (15%)35

Strategy (15%)42

Total Score35.8

Gotarzes II of Parthia — Complete Timeline

40 AD

Usurpation of the ThronePolitical Action◆ Major

Gotarzes II seized the Parthian throne by force, overthrowing the legitimate king Artabanus II's successor. His usurpation triggered a period of civil war and instability in Parthia.

UsurpationCivil WarDynastic Crisis

Impact: nationaldestructive

42 AD

War with Vardanes IWar

Gotarzes II fought a civil war against his rival Vardanes I, who also claimed the throne. The conflict ended with Vardanes' assassination, leaving Gotarzes as the sole ruler of Parthia.

Civil WarRival ClaimantVardanes I

Impact: national

49 AD

Murder of MeherdatesPolitical Action◆ Major

Gotarzes II murdered his brother Meherdates, who had been sent by Rome to claim the Parthian throne. This act eliminated a rival and consolidated Gotarzes' power, but deepened the rift with Rome.

FratricideDynastic StruggleRoman Intervention

Impact: nationaldestructive

50 AD

Conflict with Rome over ArmeniaWar

Gotarzes II attempted to assert Parthian control over Armenia, leading to conflict with Rome. The dispute was unresolved at his death, contributing to the ongoing Roman-Parthian rivalry.

Roman-Parthian WarsArmenian QuestionImperial Rivalry

Impact: regional