Lucius Mummius, consul of 146 BCE, now …

Years: 146BCE - 146BCE

Lucius Mummius, consul of 146 BCE, now takes over the command of the war against the Achaean League, defeating the incapable Diaeus and the remaining Achaean forces, composed largely of untrained slaves, at Leucopetra on the Isthmus of Corinth and capturing Corinth.

All the men of Corinth are put to the sword and the women and children sold into slavery.

The Roman Senate now dissolves the Achaean League and, prompted by the mercantile party, which is eager to be rid of a dangerous commercial rival, orders Mummius to teach a lesson to the Greeks: the venerable city is sacked, its treasures taken to Rome, and its buildings burned to the ground.

However, at least two ancient authors give accounts that suggest Corinth was not completely destroyed (Cicero in Tusc. 3.53, and Dio Cassius 21).

Mummius' indifference to works of art and ignorance of their value is shown by his well-known remark to those who contracted for the shipment of the treasures of Corinth to Rome, that “if they lost or damaged them, they would have to replace them.”

In the subsequent settlement of affairs, Mummius exhibits considerable administrative powers and a high degree of justice and integrity, which gain him the respect of the inhabitants.

He especially abstains from offending their religious susceptibilities.

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