Marcus Junius Silanus (praetor 212 BC) facts for kids

Marcus Junius Silanus was a very successful Roman general. He fought bravely in Spain during the Second Punic War. This was a huge war between Rome and Carthage. People remember him best for defeating two Carthaginian generals. Their names were Hanno and Mago. This important victory happened in Spain in 207 BC.

Early Life and Career

Marcus Junius Silanus belonged to a famous Roman family. This family was called the gens Junia. We first hear about him in 216 BC. At that time, he was put in charge of the Roman soldiers in Neapolis. This city in Italy had asked Rome for help. They wanted protection from the Carthaginian general Hannibal.

In 212 BC, Silanus became a praetor. A praetor was an important Roman official. He was sent to a region called Etruria. He stayed there the next year as a propraetor. During this time, he helped the Roman army. He bought and sent grain to soldiers who were fighting near the city of Capua.

Fighting in Spain

In 210 BC, Silanus's command was extended. He then went to Hispania (modern-day Spain) with Scipio Africanus. Scipio was a very famous Roman general. Silanus stayed in Spain for the whole war there. When they arrived, Silanus took over from another Roman commander.

In 209 BC, Scipio led his army to capture Carthago Nova. This was an important city. Silanus stayed behind to command the Roman forces in the southern part of Spain. He held this area the next year.

Great Victory in Celtiberia

In 207 BC, Silanus achieved a major victory. Scipio told him to attack a large Carthaginian army. This army was led by Hanno and Mago in a region called Celtiberia. Silanus had a much smaller army. But he completely defeated the Carthaginians. This was a huge win for Rome.

In 206 BC, Silanus took part in more battles. He also fought in the important Battle of Ilipa. Later, Scipio traveled to meet a king in Africa. He left Silanus in charge of the Roman forces at Carthago Nova. Another general, Lucius Marcius Septimus, was in charge at Tarraco. Some ancient writers say this arrangement continued. Others say different generals took over.

What Happened Next?

We don't know much about Marcus Junius Silanus after his time in Spain. Some historians think he might be the same Marcus Junius Silanus who died in battle in 196 BC. This general was fighting against a group called the Boii. However, it is more likely that this was his son.

See also

In Spanish: Marco Junio Silano (pretor) para niños