ATTALID DYNASTY Meaning and
Definition
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The Attalid Dynasty refers to a lineage of rulers who governed the Kingdom of Pergamon in ancient Anatolia (present-day Turkey) from 282 to 133 BC. Founded by Philetaerus, a trusted general of Alexander the Great, the dynasty maintained its rule through a hereditary monarchy. The Attalids played a significant role in Hellenistic history, contributing to the promotion of Greek culture and spreading influence across the Anatolian region.
During their reign, the Attalids oversaw a prosperous and culturally vibrant period. They prioritized the development of Pergamon as a center of learning, architectural magnificence, and artistic excellence. Notably, they established one of the most famous libraries of antiquity, which rivalled the Library of Alexandria in its collection of books and scrolls.
Politically, the Attalid Dynasty constantly maneuvered to preserve their state's independence amidst the shifting tides of power in the Hellenistic world. At times, they formed alliances with major regional players, such as Rome, to ensure their territorial integrity and protection from external threats. However, their efforts eventually proved unsuccessful, leading to their downfall.
The Attalid Dynasty met its end in 133 BC, when the last ruler, Attalus III, bequeathed his kingdom to the Roman Republic upon his death. Consequently, Pergamon was integrated into the Roman Empire's domain, becoming the province of Asia. The Attalid Dynasty's impact on Anatolian history, the promotion of Greek culture, and the legacy of Pergamon as a center of scholarship and artistic expression, remain significant contributions to ancient civilization.
Etymology of ATTALID DYNASTY
The word "Attalid" comes from the ancient Greek name "Attalus", which was the name of several rulers belonging to the Attalid dynasty. The Attalid dynasty originated in the city of Pergamon (located in modern-day Turkey) and was founded by Attalus I in the 3rd century BCE. The dynasty ruled over the region for several generations until it eventually came to an end with the Roman conquest of Pergamon in 133 BCE.
