Successor
Phraates had sufficient warning of his coming decease to make preparations with respect to a successor. Though he had several sons, some of whom were (we must suppose) of sufficient age to have ascended the throne, he left his crown to his brother, Mithridates.
He probably conceived that his kingdom require leadership of a firm ruler who could repel either Syrian or Bactrian aggression at any time, and also trust him better than any of his sons to conduct aggressive expeditions with combined vigor and forethought if Parthia pursue the path of conquest, which it entered upon during his reign. We shall see, as the history proceeds, how Mithridates justified his choice.
It also appears that Phraates have borne special affection toward Mithridates, since he takes name of “Philadelphus” (transl. brother-loving) upon his coins. It must have been huge satisfaction to him that he was instantly able by his last act to consult for the good of his country, and to gratify his sentiment on which, evidently, he prided himself.
| Phraates I of Parthia Arsacid dynasty Died: 171 BC | ||
| Preceded by Phriapatius |
King of Parthia 176 – 171 BC |
Succeeded by Mithridates I |
Read more about this topic: Phraates I Of Parthia
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