116BC

116 BC was a significant year in ancient history, marked by several notable events. In the Roman Republic, the year was dominated by the Second Punic War, a conflict between Rome and Carthage. The war had been ongoing since 218 BC and was a major factor in shaping the political and military landscape of the Mediterranean. In 116 BC, the Roman consul Gaius Marius led a successful campaign against the Numidians, an ally of Carthage. This victory was a crucial step in Rome's eventual conquest of Carthage, which was completed in 146 BC.

In the East, the year saw the death of the Chinese emperor Wu of Han. Wu had ruled for 29 years and was known for his military campaigns and efforts to unify China. His death marked the end of the Western Han Dynasty, which had been founded by his grandfather Liu Bang in 206 BC. Wu was succeeded by his son, Zhao of Han, who would go on to rule for just over a year before being overthrown by a rebel general.

In the Middle East, the year saw the death of the Seleucid king Antiochus VII Sidetes. Antiochus had been a controversial figure, known for his religious policies and his attempts to impose Greek culture on the Middle East. His death marked the end of the Seleucid Dynasty, which had ruled the region for over three centuries. The Seleucids were succeeded by the Parthians, a nomadic people from Central Asia who would go on to establish a new dynasty in the region.

Overall, 116 BC was a year of significant political and military events in the ancient world. The Second Punic War continued to shape the Mediterranean, while the death of the Chinese emperor Wu and the Seleucid king Antiochus marked the end of two major dynasties. These events would have far-reaching consequences for the future of the ancient world.