The War against Antiochus III , 191–188 BC

Abstract After defeating Macedon, Flamininus announced the freedom of Greece in 196 bc , and all Roman forces were withdrawn. The Seleucids under Antiochus became a focus for Greek dissatisfaction with Roman dominance but were keen to avoid direct confrontation. When an anti‐Roman faction gained control of Demetrias, the Aetolian League invited Antiochus to guarantee the freedom of Greece and arbitrate in its dispute with Rome. In late 192, the Aetolians massacred a unit of Roman soldiers and the Senate declared war. Antiochus attempted to defend the pass at Thermopylae, but his army disintegrated after the position was turned. Antiochus retreated to Asia, and the focus of the war shifted to naval domination of the Aegean. Rome eventually won the contest, despite the aid given to Antiochus by the fugitive Hannibal. Roman troops were now able to cross into Asia; the Aetolians, isolated from their allies, sued for peace. Antiochus was decisively defeated at Magnesia and forced to renounce all claims west of the Taurus.