Indortes facts for kids

Indortes was a brave leader from ancient Spain, known as a caudillo or régulo. He lived around 250 BC. Indortes took charge of a big rebellion by the Turdetani and Iberian people. They were fighting against the powerful Carthaginians, led by the famous general Hamilcar Barca.

Indortes: A Leader Against Carthage

The name "Indortes" likely comes from an ancient Iberian word meaning "the strong." Some historians think he might have been the brother of another leader named Istolatios, but this isn't certain. We learn about Indortes mainly from ancient writers like Diodorus Siculus, Polybius, and Cornelius Nepos.

In 237 BC, the Carthaginian general Hamilcar Barca arrived in ancient Gades (which is now Cádiz, Spain). He defeated and captured Istolatios, who was then executed. Hamilcar then moved into the lands of the Lusitanians and the Vettones. When he returned south, he met a new army led by Indortes.

Indortes commanded a large army of about 50,000 fighters from nearby regions. However, he was careful after seeing what happened to Istolatios. Indortes chose not to fight Hamilcar directly. Instead, he moved his army to a high, strong position, hoping to have an advantage.

The Carthaginians surrounded Indortes' army and a battle began. Even though Indortes managed to help many of his soldiers escape, he himself was captured by Hamilcar. Indortes faced a very harsh end.

After capturing Indortes, Hamilcar showed a different side. He was often cruel to enemy leaders but kind to their soldiers. He released about 10,000 captured Iberian fighters. Hamilcar then convinced their cities to become allies with him, using force if they refused. This way, he added thousands of Hispanic warriors to his own army. After Indortes, the fight against the Carthaginians in Spain was led by another brave leader named Orissus. Orissus even won the first victory against Hamilcar.