Marcus Statius Priscus

Marcus Statius Priscus Licinius Italicus was a Roman politician and general of the mid 2nd century.

His career began as an equestrian officer, receiving a decoration from Hadrian during the Jewish rebellion. He then served as procurator in Southern Gaul before being made a senator and commanding two legions in succession.

He was governor of Dacia between 157 and 158 and held the consulship in 159. After this, he governed Moesia Superior between 160 and 161 and became governor of Roman Britain immediately afterwards, serving until perhaps as late as the mid 160s.

Such a rapid career progression indicates a man of ability and an especial strength in running prestigious but troublesome provinces.

Priscus was made governor of Cappadocia by Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus after the death of Marcus Sedatius Severianus in a campaign against Vologases IV in 163. The forces of Statius Priscus, made up of Eastern auxiliaries and several legions transferred from the Rhine and the Danube, quickly crushed the Parthians and destroyed the town of Artaxata. Priscus then installed on the throne of Armenia, Sohaemus (who was under the protection of Rome), and rebuilt the city of Valarshapat.

Preceded by
Sextus Sulpicius Tertullus and Quintus Tineius Sacerdos Clemens
Consul of the Roman Empire with Plautius Quintillus
159
Succeeded by
Appius Annius Atilius Bradua and Titus Clodius Vibius Varus
Preceded by
Longinus
Roman governors of Britain
161- later in the 160s
Succeeded by
Uncertain, then Sextus Calpurnius Agricola


Famous quotes containing the word statius:

    The mob in silence leaves their prince’s side,
    And to the coming ruler gives its love,
    And is with mobs the custom.
    —Publius Papinius Statius (c. 40–96)