Gnaeus Servilius Geminus facts for kids
Gnaeus Servilius Geminus was an important Roman leader who lived a long, long time ago. He was a consul, which was like a top elected official in ancient Rome. He also served as a brave general and admiral, leading Rome's army and navy during a huge conflict called the Second Punic War. He died on August 2, 216 BC.
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Early Life and Role as Consul
Gnaeus Servilius Geminus was the son of Publius Servilius Geminus. He became a consul in early 217 BC. This meant he was one of the two most powerful leaders in Rome for that year.
Leading the Roman Army
Soon after becoming consul, Geminus started leading Roman soldiers. He directed military actions against a famous enemy general named Hannibal. Hannibal was from Carthage, a powerful city across the sea. Geminus's forces fought near a place called Ariminum.
Later that year, something big happened. Another consul, Gaius Flaminius, died in a battle. After this, a new leader called Fabius Maximus became a dictator. A dictator was a special leader chosen in emergencies. Geminus then took command of the Roman fleet, which was their navy. He was in charge of protecting the coast. He also led battles near Sardinia, Corsica, and the North African coast.
Return to Land Command
In November of that year, Geminus went back to leading Roman land forces. He was elected proconsul in early 216 BC. This meant he continued to have power like a consul, even after his term ended.
Skirmishes with Hannibal
From March to May, Geminus's forces had many small fights with Hannibal's army. These were like practice battles before a big one.
The Battle of Cannae
Gnaeus Servilius Geminus was killed during the Battle of Cannae. This was a very famous and terrible battle for the Romans. It happened on August 2, 216 BC. Geminus was leading the center of the Roman battle line when he died. An ancient poem called Punica says he got tired during the fight. It also says a Carthaginian captain named Viriathus finished him off.
See also
- Servilia (gens)
