Gaius Antistius Vetus (consul 30 BC) facts for kids

Gaius Antistius Vetus was an important Roman politician and a military leader. He became a top official called a consul in 30 BC. He served alongside Augustus, who later became the first Roman emperor.

Who Was Gaius Antistius Vetus?

Gaius Antistius Vetus came from an old Roman family. His father, also named Gaius Antistius Vetus, was a high-ranking official called a praetor in 70 BC. He was also a governor in Spain in 69 BC. Interestingly, the famous Julius Caesar worked under Vetus's father as a quaestor, which was a financial officer.

Early Career and Challenges

At first, Gaius Antistius Vetus supported Julius Caesar. Caesar appointed him as a Quaestor pro praetore (a special financial and military role) in Syria in 45 BC.

While in Syria, Vetus had to fight against Quintus Caecilius Bassus. Bassus was the previous governor and an enemy of Caesar. He refused to leave his position. Vetus surrounded Bassus's forces. However, the Parthians arrived and helped Bassus. During this time, Vetus was honored with the title imperator, which meant "commander" or "victorious general."

Changing Sides and Reconciliation

In 44 BC, Vetus was on his way back to Rome. He was carrying money from his province. However, he was stopped by Brutus. Brutus was one of the main people who had assassinated Julius Caesar. Brutus convinced Vetus to give him the money. Vetus also decided to join Brutus's side, which was called the Liberatores.

By June 43 BC, Vetus was back in Rome. But he soon returned to Brutus and served as one of his legates (a military commander). After Brutus's army was defeated at the Battle of Philippi, Vetus had to flee. Eventually, he made peace with Marcus Antonius and Octavianus.

Later Military and Political Roles

In 35 BC, Vetus was put in charge of a war against the Salassi people. This war was likely happening in Transalpine Gaul (modern-day France). He fought hard but did not win the war.

Then, in 30 BC, he received the important position of consul suffectus. This meant he served as a consul for part of the year, alongside Octavianus.

In 26 BC, Vetus became a legate (governor and military commander) of Hispania Citerior in Spain. This was a significant role, as few men of his rank were given military provinces by Augustus. He took over from Augustus himself, who had fallen ill during a campaign in Spain. Vetus led a successful campaign with P. Carusius against the Astures people. They finished this campaign in 25 BC.

Vetus's son, Gaius Antistius Vetus, also became a consul in 6 BC. Two of his grandsons also became consuls later on.

See also

• Antistia gens

In Spanish: Cayo Antistio Veto (cónsul 30 a. C.) para niños