Numidia

Tomb_of_Massinissa_01

File:Numidia in 220 BC.jpg

Numidia_in_220_BC

Egypt,_Rome,_Carthage_and_Numidia

Cherchell_Neopunic_inscriptions_(141)

Roman_Africa

20141114-_DSC0003-3_(15265143694)

TUNISIA_DOUGGA_MAUSOLEE_LIBYCO_PUNIQUE_001

Numidia was an ancient Berber kingdom located in what is now Algeria and a smaller part of Tunisia in North Africa. It existed as an independent state from the 3rd century BC until it was annexed by the Roman Republic in 46 BC. Numidia played a significant role in the history of the region, particularly during the Punic Wars between Rome and Carthage.

History

Early History

Numidia was originally divided into two main tribal confederations: the Masaesyli in the west and the Masaesyles in the east. The kingdom was unified under King Masinissa after the Second Punic War. Masinissa, initially an ally of Carthage, switched allegiance to Rome and played a crucial role in the defeat of Carthage at the Battle of Zama in 202 BC.

Roman Period

After the death of Masinissa in 148 BC, Numidia was ruled by his descendants. The kingdom was eventually divided due to internal conflicts and Roman intervention. In 46 BC, following the defeat of Juba I by Julius Caesar in the Battle of Thapsus, Numidia was annexed and became a Roman province.

Later History

Under Roman rule, Numidia was reorganized and integrated into the Roman Empire. It became an important source of grain and other resources for Rome. The region saw significant Romanization, with the establishment of Roman colonies and the spread of Roman culture and infrastructure.

Geography

Numidia was located in the central part of North Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Sahara Desert to the south, Mauretania to the west, and Carthage to the east. The region was characterized by a diverse landscape, including coastal plains, mountains, and desert areas.

Culture

The Numidians were primarily Berber-speaking people with a rich cultural heritage. They were known for their skills in horsemanship and cavalry tactics, which were highly valued by both Carthage and Rome. The Numidian cavalry played a significant role in various military campaigns during the Punic Wars.

Economy

The economy of Numidia was based on agriculture, animal husbandry, and trade. The fertile plains of the region were suitable for growing crops such as wheat, barley, and olives. The Numidians also engaged in trade with neighboring regions, including Carthage and the Roman Empire.

Legacy

Numidia's legacy is evident in the historical and archaeological sites found in modern-day Algeria and Tunisia. The region's history is also reflected in the cultural and linguistic heritage of the Berber people.

Related Pages

• Masinissa
• Juba I of Numidia
• Battle of Zama
• Battle of Thapsus
• Roman Empire
• Carthage
• Berbers

Categories

   This article is a African history–related stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!