Founding of the Seleucid Empire: What Happened
In 312 BC, Alexander's former general Seleucus recaptured Babylon, founding what became the largest of the kingdoms that emerged from Alexander's empire. The event was so important that the date was used as the start of the Seleucid Era, a calendar used in the Near East for centuries. Seleucus had earlier been driven out of Babylon by his rival Antigonus and had taken refuge with Ptolemy in Egypt before returning to reclaim it. Over the following years, he extended his control east across Mesopotamia and Iran toward India. He gave up the Indian territories to the Mauryan ruler Chandragupta in exchange for about 500 war elephants, which helped him win the Battle of Ipsus in 301 BC. Seleucus founded major new cities, including Antioch in Syria, which became the capital, and Seleucia on the Tigris. At its height, the Seleucid Empire stretched from the Aegean coast to Afghanistan. It gradually lost territory to the Parthians, the Romans and local rebellions, and its final remnant in Syria was annexed by Rome in 63 BC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded the Seleucid Empire?
The Seleucid Empire was founded by Seleucus, one of Alexander the Great's generals, who recaptured Babylon in 312 BC and built a vast kingdom in Asia.
What was the Seleucid Era?
The Seleucid Era was a calendar that counted years from Seleucus's return to Babylon in 312 BC. It was used in the Near East for many centuries.
How big was the Seleucid Empire?
At its height, the Seleucid Empire stretched from the Aegean coast of Anatolia across Syria, Mesopotamia and Iran to Afghanistan, making it the largest successor kingdom.
What was the capital of the Seleucid Empire?
The capital was Antioch in Syria, founded by Seleucus. Another important city was Seleucia on the Tigris, in Mesopotamia.
How did the Seleucid Empire end?
The empire gradually lost territory to the Parthians, the Romans and local rebellions. Its final remnant in Syria was annexed by Rome in 63 BC.
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