Attalus III (c. 170 BC – 133 BC)

Attalus III (c. 170 BC – 133 BC), also known as Philometor Euergetes, was the final ruler of the Attalid dynasty in Pergamon, reigning from 138 BC to 133 BC. His name, Philometor Euergetes (Greek for “Loving-his-Mother, Benefactor”), reflects his close bond with his mother, Stratonice of Pergamon. Attalus was the son of King Eumenes II and Stratonice and the nephew of Attalus II, who preceded him as king.

The young Attalus inherited a kingdom renowned for its cultural achievements and alliances with Rome. Pergamon, a thriving Hellenistic state in Asia Minor, was a center of learning and the arts, and its rulers had long maintained a cooperative relationship with the growing Roman Republic.

Reign and Interests

Attalus III’s reign began in 138 BC, but his approach to kingship was unconventional. Unlike his predecessors, who were actively involved in governance and expansion, Attalus showed little interest in political affairs. Ancient sources like Livy depict him as a ruler more inclined toward intellectual and personal pursuits than statecraft. His interests lay in studying medicine, botany, and gardening, fields in which he excelled.

This focus on scholarly activities left the administrative aspects of the kingdom largely unattended, causing discontent among his subjects. Despite his apathy toward ruling, Attalus III remained a patron of the arts and sciences, continuing Pergamon’s legacy as a cultural hub.

Decision to Bequeath Pergamon to Rome

Attalus III made a historic and highly consequential decision in his will: he left the entire kingdom of Pergamon to the Roman Republic. This move was unprecedented and rooted in a pragmatic assessment of the geopolitical reality. Attalus likely recognized that Rome, a dominant power in the Mediterranean, would eventually claim Pergamon either through conquest or diplomacy. By willingly ceding the kingdom, he hoped to prevent unnecessary bloodshed and ensure a peaceful transition.

This act demonstrated Attalus’s foresight, as it avoided immediate conflict with Rome. However, it also raised questions about his motivations and the legitimacy of the bequest. The Roman Senate, while accepting the inheritance, faced opposition from figures such as Tiberius Gracchus, who argued that Pergamon’s wealth should benefit the Roman public. The Senate ultimately dismissed this proposal, maintaining control over the kingdom’s assets.

The Aristonicus Revolt

Despite Attalus’s intention to secure a smooth transfer of power, his decision was not universally accepted. In 131 BC, Aristonicus, claiming to be the illegitimate son of Eumenes II and thus Attalus’s half-brother, led a rebellion against Roman authority. Declaring himself King Eumenes III, Aristonicus garnered support from various groups, including the impoverished and disenfranchised populations of the region.

The rebellion was further bolstered by the involvement of the Roman philosopher Blossius, who provided ideological support for the uprising. Aristonicus’s movement aimed to establish an independent state, challenging Rome’s claim to Pergamon. However, the revolt was ultimately suppressed by Roman forces in 129 BC.

Aftermath and Legacy

Following the suppression of Aristonicus’s rebellion, the territory of Pergamon was divided among Rome and neighboring kingdoms, including Pontus and Cappadocia. The core of the kingdom became the Roman province of Asia, marking the end of Pergamon’s independence and its integration into the expanding Roman Empire.

Attalus III’s legacy is marked by his unique decision to will his kingdom to Rome, a testament to his awareness of political realities. While criticized for his lack of involvement in governance, his contributions to cultural and scientific pursuits reflected the intellectual spirit of the Hellenistic era. The transition of Pergamon to Roman control set a precedent for other Hellenistic states and highlighted the shifting power dynamics of the ancient Mediterranean world.