John Hyrcanus vs Lysimachus

John Hyrcanus succeeded his father Simon Thassi as High Priest and ethnarch of Judea. He consolidated Hasmonean rule, combining religious and political authority. His reign marked the peak of Hasmonean power and territorial expansion.

John Hyrcanus renewed the alliance with the Roman Republic, which had been established by his predecessors. This alliance provided diplomatic support against the Seleucid Empire and helped secure Judean independence.

John Hyrcanus led military campaigns that conquered Samaria and Idumea. He destroyed the Samaritan temple on Mount Gerizim and forced the Idumeans to convert to Judaism. These conquests expanded the Jewish state and solidified Hasmonean control.

John Hyrcanus destroyed the Samaritan temple on Mount Gerizim, which had been a rival to the Jerusalem Temple. This act deepened the schism between Jews and Samaritans and asserted the primacy of the Jerusalem Temple.

Lysimachus declared himself king of Thrace, establishing a Hellenistic kingdom in the region. He ruled over Thrace, parts of Asia Minor, and later Macedonia, but his kingdom was short-lived and fragmented after his death.

Lysimachus fought alongside Seleucus I against Antigonus I at Ipsus. The victory allowed Lysimachus to expand his territory in Asia Minor, gaining control of much of Anatolia. However, his alliance with Seleucus later turned to conflict.

Lysimachus ordered the execution of his son Agathocles on the instigation of his wife Arsinoe II. This act caused a revolt among his subjects and led to the defection of many supporters to Seleucus, weakening Lysimachus' position before Corupedium.

Lysimachus fought against Seleucus I at Corupedium in Lydia. He was defeated and killed in battle, ending his rule. This victory allowed Seleucus to claim control over Asia Minor, but Seleucus was assassinated shortly after.