Flamininus

Titus Quinctius Flamininus was a Roman statesman and general who lived from approximately 229 BC to 174 BC. He is primarily known for his military campaigns in Greece and his role in the Roman expansion into the Hellenistic East.

Flamininus served as consul in 198 BC and was subsequently given command of the Roman forces in Greece. His most significant achievement was the defeat of Philip V of Macedon at the Battle of Cynoscephalae in 197 BC. This victory marked a turning point in Roman-Macedonian relations and significantly weakened Macedonian influence in Greece.

Following his military success, Flamininus proclaimed the freedom of Greek cities from Macedonian rule at the Isthmian Games in 196 BC. While this gesture was popular among many Greeks, it did not immediately lead to lasting peace, as Roman influence gradually replaced Macedonian dominance. Flamininus continued to be active in Greek affairs, supporting pro-Roman factions and intervening in disputes.

His policies and actions in Greece contributed to the eventual Roman dominance over the region. Flamininus was a significant figure in the transition of Roman foreign policy from primarily Italian concerns to a more assertive and interventionist stance in the Mediterranean world. He later served in various other political and military capacities for Rome.