Livy Book 30

Syphax

SYPHAX (Sophax), chief of a Numidian tribe, the Masaesyles, in north Africa, with capitals at Siga and Cirta. He wore a diadem like a Hellenistic monarch, while Phoenician, not Berber, was his official court language.

In a war against Carthage (ending in 212 b.c.), he received some support from the Scipios in Spain. He overran part of the territory of his neighbour Masinissa and tried to retain the friendship of both Rome and Carthage, but was won over to the latter by Sophonisba.

He fought against the Roman expeditionary force led by Scipio, who burnt his camp. Defeated at Campi Magni, he fled to his kingdom where he was beaten in battle and captured by Laelius and Masinissa (203).

He died in imprisonment in Italy.