Juba II

Juba II (c. 52 BC – AD 23) was the King of Numidia and later Mauretania. He was one of the most notable Berber kings and a client king of the Roman Empire.

Born in Numidia, North Africa, Juba II was the son of King Juba I of Numidia. In 46 BC, Juba I sided with Pompey in the Roman civil war against Julius Caesar. After Pompey's defeat, Caesar defeated Juba I at the Battle of Thapsus. Juba I committed suicide, and the young Juba II was brought to Rome.

Juba II was raised in Rome and received a Roman education. He became a Roman citizen and developed a close friendship with the future Emperor Augustus. He was educated alongside Marcus Antonius's son, Iullus Antonius. He became a scholar, historian, naturalist, and geographer.

Around 25 BC, Augustus appointed Juba II as king of Mauretania. This kingdom encompassed parts of present-day Morocco and Algeria. He ruled Mauretania for nearly 50 years. Juba II transformed Mauretania from a Roman protectorate into a prosperous kingdom, encouraging trade and supporting the arts and sciences. He established a new capital at Caesarea Mauretaniae (modern Cherchell, Algeria).

Juba II married Cleopatra Selene II, the daughter of Mark Antony and Cleopatra VII of Egypt, around 26 BC. They had two known children: Ptolemy of Mauretania (who succeeded him) and Drusilla.

Juba II was a prolific writer. Although most of his works are lost, fragments survive, and his writings were frequently cited by later authors such as Pliny the Elder. He wrote on topics including history, geography, natural history, and art. He is particularly known for his works on Arabia and Libya.

Juba II is considered an important figure in North African history. His reign saw a period of peace and prosperity in Mauretania, and he played a significant role in the integration of the region into the Roman world. He abdicated the throne in AD 23, passing it to his son Ptolemy, and died shortly thereafter.