Sertorius, Quintus (c. 121–72 BC)

Roman soldier. A supporter of Marius and Cinna, after their deaths he led a resistance in Spain against the regime of Sulla.

A gifted soldier, Sertorius served under Marius in the campaign against the Germanic Teutones 102 BC, and was military tribune in Spain 98 BC. In 87 BC Sertorius served under Marius and Cinna when they entered Rome, but disapproved of the ensuing massacres. He was praetor 83 BC when Sulla returned to Italy. Sertorius went to Spain, and then to Mauretania, where he defeated Sulla's general Paccianus. Committed to rebellion against the Sullan regime, Sertorius returned to Spain and headed the revolt of the people of Lusitania (region of western Spain corresponding to modern Portugal). His wise rule and military skill won him popularity and widespread support, and he was joined by a number of Romans 77 BC. He was able to withstand the efforts of every general sent against him, including Pompey the Great. In 72 BC, however, he was assassinated by Perperna, one of his own Roman officers, and the rebellion was suppressed.