Xerxes of Armenia facts for kids
Xerxes was a king who ruled the ancient kingdom of Sophene. He was the son of another king named Arsames II. Sophene was located in a region that is now part of modern-day Turkey.
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Who Was King Xerxes?
Xerxes became king of Sophene around 228 BC. His kingdom was an important area, located between larger empires. Kings like Xerxes often had to balance power between powerful neighbors.
Early Life and Kingdom
Xerxes inherited his kingdom from his father, Arsames II. Sophene was known for its strategic location, which made it a valuable territory. It was a place where different cultures and trade routes met.
Facing Antiochus III
During Xerxes's time as king, a very powerful ruler named Antiochus III the Great decided to expand his empire. Antiochus III was the king of the Seleucid Empire, a large kingdom that came after Alexander the Great's empire. Antiochus III invaded Sophene and attacked Xerxes's capital city, Arsamosata.
A Royal Marriage and a Sad End
To make peace and keep his kingdom, Xerxes agreed that Antiochus III was his ruler. As part of this agreement, Xerxes married Antiochus's sister, a princess named Antiochia. However, this marriage did not bring a happy ending for Xerxes. Antiochia later caused his death around 212 BC.
