Quintus Pompeius Falco facts for kids

Quintus Pompeius Falco (born around 70 AD) was an important Roman senator and general. He lived in the early 2nd century AD. He was a governor of several Roman provinces, including Roman Britain. He even hosted Emperor Hadrian when he visited Britain. Falco became a Roman consul in 108 AD.

Why Did His Name Change So Much?

Quintus Pompeius Falco had a very long and complicated name: Quintus Roscius Coelius Murena Silius Decianus Vibullius Pius Julius Eurycles Herculanus Pompeius Falco. This is an example of polyonymy, which means having many names.

When he was younger, his name was Quintus Roscius Murena Coelius Pompeius Falco. This shows he was adopted by another senator. In ancient Rome, adoption wasn't just for children. Sometimes, it was done to keep a family's name going, especially if they didn't have a son. His adoptive father was likely a Quintus Roscius from Sicily.

Later, his name grew even longer! He added names like "Silius Decianus" and "Vibullius Pius Julius Eurycles Herculanus". These names came from other important Roman families he connected with. This shows how Falco built a strong network of friends and allies throughout his life.

Falco's Life and Career

Early Steps in Roman Politics

Falco started his career in public service as a young man. He was part of a group called the decemviri stlitibus judicandis. This was one of the first steps a young man took to become a Roman senator.

Around 97 AD, Falco became a plebeian tribune. This was an important role where he could protect the rights of common people. He also served as a praetor peregrinus around 99 or 100 AD. A praetor was a high-ranking judge.

Military Service and Governorships

Falco's career became more notable during the Dacian Wars (101-102 AD). He was a commander in the Roman army, leading the Legio V Macedonica. His bravery and skill in these wars earned him special military awards called dona militaria.

After the wars, Falco became a governor of several provinces:

• He governed Lycia et Pamphylia, a region in modern-day Turkey.
• Then, he governed Judea, which is now part of Israel. This was unusual because it was a very important and sensitive area.
• He also became the first curator (manager) of the Via Traiana, a new road built by Emperor Trajan. This road was important for trade and travel.
• Later, he governed Moesia Inferior, a province in the Balkans.

Dealing with Trouble in Britain

Soon after, Falco was chosen to govern Roman Britain. This was a very important job, and Emperor Hadrian likely appointed him right away.

When Hadrian became emperor, there were many rebellions across the Roman Empire. In Britain, some local tribes, especially the Brigantes, were causing trouble. They didn't want to be controlled by Rome. Falco was tasked with stopping these revolts.

We don't have all the details, but it seems Falco was successful in putting down the rebellion. An inscription found in Jarrow and special coins from 119 AD celebrate his victory. However, some sources suggest the fighting was very difficult, with many Roman soldiers losing their lives.

Governor of Asia and Retirement

In 122 AD, Emperor Hadrian visited Britain. He decided to make many changes to the province, including building Hadrian's Wall to protect the Roman lands. To carry out these big plans, Hadrian replaced Falco with a new governor.

Even though he left Britain, Falco's career was far from over. The next year, he became the governor of Asia, a very wealthy and important province in modern-day Turkey. This was considered one of the highest achievements for a Roman senator. His wife and son likely joined him there.

After his time in Asia, Falco retired from public life. He probably lived on his estates near Tusculum, a town close to Rome. The last we hear of him is in a letter from the young Marcus Aurelius (who would later become emperor). Marcus Aurelius recalled visiting Falco's estate when Falco was an old man, showing him around his beautiful property.

Family

Falco married a woman named Sosia Polla. Her father and grandfather were both very important Roman consuls. Falco and Sosia Polla had at least one son, Quintus Pompeius Sosius Priscus, who also became a consul in 149 AD.