Artabanus IV facts for kids

Artabanus IV was one of the last kings of the Parthian Empire. He ruled from about 216 to 224 AD. He was the younger son of King Vologases V. Artabanus fought against his own brother, Vologases VI, to become king. Artabanus mostly won, but his brother still controlled a small part of Babylonia for a few more years.

Artabanus IV: Last King of Parthia

Artabanus IV became a powerful ruler of the Parthian Empire. This empire was very old, lasting for about 400 years. Artabanus had to deal with many challenges during his rule. These included a fight with his own brother and attacks from the powerful Roman Empire.

Facing the Romans

The Roman emperor at the time was named Caracalla. He saw that Artabanus was fighting his brother. Caracalla wanted to use this chance to attack the Parthian Empire and take over some of its lands.

In 216 AD, Caracalla attacked the Parthians. His armies crossed the Tigris River and destroyed several towns. But when Artabanus IV came forward with a large army, Caracalla decided to retreat. He went back to a place called Carrhae.

However, Caracalla was murdered there in 217 AD. The next Roman leader was Macrinus. Macrinus fought against Artabanus IV at a battle near Nisibis. Macrinus lost this battle. After that, he made a peace agreement with Artabanus. The Romans gave back all the lands they had taken. They also paid a large amount of money to the Parthians.

The Rise of a New Empire

Around the same time, a new leader was rising in Persia. His name was Ardashir. He was the Great King of the Persian Empire. Ardashir began to conquer lands in Persia.

Artabanus IV tried to stop Ardashir. He sent his troops to fight him. But Artabanus's armies were defeated. The war between Artabanus and Ardashir lasted for several years. Finally, Artabanus himself was killed in 226 AD.

His death marked the end of the Arsacid Dynasty. This family had ruled the Parthian Empire for about 400 years. After Artabanus IV, the Parthian Empire was replaced by the new Sasanian Empire under Ardashir I.

• Dio Cassius, vii, 12; lxxviii, 26.

Images for kids

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  Illustration of a Sasanian relief at Firuzabad. It shows Ardashir I's victory over Artabanus IV and his forces.

See also

In Spanish: Artabano IV de Partia para niños