Orodes II

AncientEmperorParthian Empire-95 — -37

Parthian king whose general Surena crushed Crassus at Carrhae.

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Quick Facts

Born

95 BCE

Died

37 BCE

Country

Parthian Empire

Era

Ancient

Occupation

Emperor

Score Overview

Military (10%)70

Political (20%)68

Influence (20%)54

Legacy (20%)46

Leadership (15%)74

Strategy (15%)50

Total Score58.3

Orodes II — Complete Timeline

55 BC

Invasion of ArmeniaWar◆ Major

Orodes II invaded Armenia and installed his son Pacorus I as king, expanding Parthian influence into the Caucasus. This campaign brought Armenia into the Parthian orbit and set the stage for future conflicts with Rome over the region.

Armenian CampaignPacorusExpansion

Impact: regionalconstructive

53 BC

Battle of CarrhaeWar

Orodes II's general Surena annihilated a Roman army under Marcus Licinius Crassus at Carrhae in Mesopotamia. Crassus was killed, and the Parthians captured the legionary standards. This victory established Parthia as a major rival to Rome and avenged earlier Roman incursions.

Roman-Parthian WarsBattleCrassus

Impact: regionalconstructive

52 BC

Execution of SurenaPolitical Action◆ Major

Orodes II ordered the execution of his general Surena shortly after the victory at Carrhae, fearing his growing popularity and power. This act eliminated a capable commander and weakened Parthian military leadership.

Court IntrigueExecutionJealousy

Impact: nationaldestructive