Lucius Cornelius Lentulus (consul 199 BC) facts for kids
Lucius Cornelius Lentulus was an important Roman leader who served as a consul in 199 BC. A consul was one of the two highest elected officials in the Roman Republic, like a president or prime minister today. His partner in this role was Publius Villius Tappulus.
Lucius Cornelius Lentulus was the brother of Gnaeus Cornelius Lentulus, who also became a consul in 201 BC.
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Early Career and Public Service
Lucius Cornelius Lentulus began his public career as a praetor in 211 BC. A praetor was a high-ranking Roman official who often served as a judge or a military commander. He served in Sardinia, an island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Leading Roman Armies in Spain
After his time as praetor, Lucius Cornelius Lentulus took over from the famous general Scipio Africanus as a proconsul in Spain. A proconsul was a governor of a Roman province, often with military command. He led Roman forces there.
Denied a Roman Triumph
When Lucius Cornelius Lentulus returned from Spain in 200 BC, he was not given a triumph. A triumph was a special parade and celebration in ancient Rome to honor a general's great military victory. Even though he didn't get a triumph, his service was still recognized.
Becoming a Roman Consul
Because of his good work and leadership, Lucius Cornelius Lentulus was rewarded the very next year. He became a consul in 199 BC, which was a very high honor in the Roman Republic. He died in 173 BC.