The Illyrian Wars, 229–219 BC

Abstract The First Illyrian War began in 229 bc , following Illyrian aggression and complaints of piracy from Italian merchants. The Illyrians generally avoided pitched battles, but the Romans were successful in taking their fortresses and were able to impose a humiliating peace in 227. The regional influence of the Illyrian Queen Teuta was gradually supplanted by that of Demetrius of Pharos. The Romans continued diplomatic activity in the region as a sign of continuing interest, and several communities placed themselves under Roman protection. Ten years later, however, Demetrius was beginning to threaten these communities and had allied himself with king Antigonus of Macedon. The Second Illyrian War began in 219. Demetrius placed his confidence in the fortresses of Dimale and Pharos, but the former was taken in only seven days. Demetrius was then lured out of Pharos; after the destruction of his forces, he fled to Macedon. The Romans swiftly reestablished their influence in the region.