Caucenus facts for kids

Caucenus was a brave leader of the Lusitanians. They were an ancient tribe living in what is now western Spain and Portugal. Caucenus was a very important military leader during the early part of the Lusitanian War. This was a big conflict between the Lusitanians and the powerful Roman Empire.

Who Was Caucenus?

Caucenus led Lusitanian tribes from lands near the Tajo River. He seemed to act on his own, not directly with other Lusitanian leaders like Punicus or Caesarus. However, their successes against the Romans might have inspired him.

Caucenus's Bold Campaign

In 153 BC, Caucenus planned a military mission that was very ambitious for his people. He and his group invaded the land of the Cynetes. The Cynetes were a tribe that was allied with Rome. Caucenus's forces captured their main city, Conistorgis.

They then continued their journey south. After getting ships, they crossed the Strait of Gibraltar to invade the African region of Mauretania. This was a very bold move, as it meant leaving their homeland.

Battles in Africa

Once in Africa, Caucenus split his army. One part explored and took over nearby lands. The other part surrounded the city of Ocile. This city might be modern-day Asilah in Morocco. Caucenus wanted to capture Ocile too.

However, a Roman general named Lucius Mummius arrived. He had just won a battle against Caesarus's troops. Mummius came with 9,500 soldiers to help the people of Ocile. The Lusitanians were busy with their siege and did not expect the Romans.

The Romans quickly defeated Caucenus's forces. About 15,000 Lusitanian warriors died in this battle. General Mummius also defeated another group of Lusitanians who were carrying stolen goods. After these victories, Mummius returned to Rome.

Around this time, one of the sons of King Masinissa of Numidia fought an Iberian army. The Iberians surrounded him, and King Masinissa had to rescue his son. Historians believe these Iberians might have been part of Caucenus's army. It's also thought that Carthage, a rival of Numidia, might have used this chance to attack Numidian lands.

Later, in 151 BC, another Roman general, Lucius Licinius Lucullus, had to stop a similar but smaller Lusitanian invasion of Africa.

What Does His Name Mean?

The exact meaning of the name Caucenus is not fully known. Some experts think it comes from an old Germanic word that means "to bend." Names like Caucinus and Cauceti were common in the Celtiberian region of ancient Spain.

See also

In Spanish: Cauceno para niños

• Punicus
• Viriathus