Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica (consul 191 BC) facts for kids
Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica was an important Roman leader who lived a long time ago, from about 227 BC to 171 BC. His nickname, "Nasica," meant "pointed nose." He was a son of Gnaeus Cornelius Scipio Calvus, who was also a famous Roman. Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica became a consul in 191 BC, which was one of the highest positions in ancient Rome.
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Early Life and Important Roles
Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica was born in 227 BC. He grew up in a very important Roman family, the Cornelii Scipiones. This family had many famous leaders and generals.
Welcoming Magna Mater
In 204 BC, the Senate (a powerful group of Roman leaders) asked him to do a special job. He traveled with important Roman women to Ostia, a port city. Their task was to welcome a special statue of Magna Mater, a goddess from Anatolia (modern-day Turkey). Ancient writers like Livy and Ovid said he was chosen because he was considered the "best" person in Rome for this honor.
Political Career
Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica held several important political jobs in Rome:
- In 197 BC, he became an aedile. Aediles were officials who managed public buildings, games, and markets.
- In 194 BC, he served as a praetor in Hispania Ulterior, which was a Roman province in what is now Spain. As praetor, he led Roman forces and defeated the Lusitanians in a battle at Ilipa.
- In 191 BC, he reached the highest office, becoming a consul. During his time as consul, he successfully brought the Boii people under Roman control.
Founding Aquileia
Later in his life, in 181 BC, Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica helped to establish a new Roman city called Aquileia. This city was important for trade and defense in northern Italy.
Family and Legacy
Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica was the father of another famous Roman, Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica Corculum. His son also became a consul and was known for disagreeing with Cato the Censor about what to do with Carthage, a rival city to Rome.
Both Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica and his son were respected for their knowledge of Roman law. They were known as skilled jurists. It is said that the Senate even gave Publius Cornelius Scipio Nasica a house in the center of Rome. This was so that people and the Senate could easily ask him for his legal advice.
See also
In Spanish: Publio Cornelio Escipión Nasica para niños
- Family tree of the Cornelii Scipiones
- Cornelia gens
