Archival Overview
Fierce Numidian king who allied with Pompey against Julius Caesar in the Roman Civil War, annihilated Caesar's general Curio at the Bagradas River, and chose death over capture after the Battle of Thapsus.
Biographical Record
Juba I (c. 85–46 BCE) was the great-grandson of Masinissa who ruled Numidia with fierce anti-Caesarean resolve. When Caesar's lieutenant Gaius Scribonius Curio invaded North Africa in 49 BCE with two Roman legions, Juba lured Curio's army into an ambush at the Bagradas River (Medjerda), completely annihilating the Roman force.
When Julius Caesar personally landed in Africa in 46 BCE, Juba fielded 30,000 infantry, 20,000 cavalry, and sixty war elephants to reinforce Metellus Scipio. Following the disastrous defeat at the Battle of Thapsus, Juba and Roman general Petreius fled to a villa and fought a duel to the death so neither would fall alive into Caesar's hands.
Key Life Milestones
Annihilation of Curio at the Bagradas River
Lured Roman legions into a devastating desert canyon ambush, killing General Curio.
The War of Thapsus
Commanded 60 war elephants and 20,000 cavalry against Julius Caesar in North Africa.
Memorial Guestbook & Tributes
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Final Resting Place
Perpetual MemorialNear Ras Kaboudia, Tunisia