Lucius Calpurnius Piso Caesoninus (consul 112 BC)

Lucius Calpurnius Piso Caesoninus was a Roman statesman and general who served as consul in 112 BC. He belonged to the plebeian gens Calpurnia, a family that traced its origins back to Numa Pompilius, the second king of Rome. His specific branch, the Piso Caesonini, produced several prominent figures throughout the Republic.

While the exact details of his early career are somewhat obscure, it is known that Piso Caesoninus advanced through the traditional cursus honorum, holding various magistracies before achieving the consulship.

As consul in 112 BC, Piso Caesoninus was tasked with dealing with the ongoing Jugurthine War in Numidia. He was sent to North Africa to replace Quintus Caecilius Metellus Numidicus, whose strategy was perceived as being too cautious. However, Piso Caesoninus proved to be an ineffective commander. He lacked the discipline and strategic acumen of his predecessor, and was reportedly susceptible to bribery. His command was characterized by inactivity and ultimately failed to make any significant progress in bringing Jugurtha to justice.

His perceived incompetence and alleged corruption led to his eventual recall from the Numidian front. Upon his return to Rome, he faced scrutiny and potential prosecution for his conduct during the war. Although the details of any formal charges or trials are not entirely clear, it is understood that he faced considerable criticism and may have suffered some form of political setback as a result of his actions in Numidia.

The Jugurthine War would eventually be successfully concluded by Gaius Marius, who replaced both Metellus and Piso Caesoninus. Piso Caesoninus’s tenure as consul and his role in the Jugurthine War are generally regarded as a low point in his career, and he is remembered primarily for his ineffectual leadership during that conflict.

Further biographical details regarding his later life, family, and any further public service are limited. The historical record primarily focuses on his unfortunate association with the Jugurthine War.