Quintus Pompeius - Consul of 141 BC

Consul of 141 BC

Quintus Aulus Pompeius (flourished 2nd century BC) was the son of an Aulus Pompeius by an unnamed Roman woman, who was a flute-player and was of humble origins. Little is known on his early life and early political career.

The Roman Senator and Historian Cicero states that Pompeius first became noticed for his distinction in his oratory. He was consul in 141 BC and in his consulship, was sent to Hispania as the successor of Quintus Caecilius Metellus Macedonicus in command of the Numantine War. After several defeats, he and his troops were kept encamped before the walls of the town during the winter. Many soldiers had died from the weather and illness, Pompeius feared that the Roman Senate would summon him to Rome to answer to them for his accountability for the war. Pompeius decided to make peace with the Numantines.

Pompeius publicly announced to the Numantines for them to surrender, however in private only demanded the return of the hostages and payment of thirty talents. The Numantines first were wary of this arrangement, however they agreed with Pompeius at the end.

In 139 BC, Marcus Popillius Laenas arrived to Hispania to replace Pompeius as head of command. Laenas had discovered Pompeius’ misconduct. Laenas had lodged a complaint against Pompeius in the Roman Senate. Pompeius continued with his lie during his hearing; the senate made his treaty with the Numantines invalid and the war was renewed. Pompeius escaped punishment and was fortunate enough to obtain an acquittal when he was accused of extortion from the province he was governing in.

Pompeius was still popular among the Roman Plebs and was among the first plebeians with Quintus Caecilius Metellus Macedonicus to be elected as censors. Pompeius’ wife was an unnamed Roman woman. His son was called Quintus Pompeius who was an opponent to politician Tiberius Gracchus and a daughter Pompeia who married a certain Gaius Sicinius.