Quick Facts
Roman general and consul who, captured by Carthage, returned to Rome on parole to argue against peace, then honored his word by returning to certain death.
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Life Journey
Marcus Atilius Regulus was born into a distinguished Roman family during the middle Republic.
Completed the rigorous military training expected of Roman nobles.
Elected consul for the first time, leading Roman forces against the Sallentini.
Elected consul again during the First Punic War, given command of the African campaign.
Won a major naval victory against Carthage at Cape Ecnomus.
Led Roman forces to invade Carthaginian territory in Africa with great initial success.
Defeated by the Spartan mercenary Xanthippus and captured by the Carthaginians.
Held prisoner in Carthage while Rome and Carthage continued their war.
Sent to Rome on parole to negotiate prisoner exchange, sworn to return if negotiations failed.
Instead of advocating for peace, urged the Senate to reject Carthaginian terms and continue the war.
Refused his family's desperate pleas to stay, insisting he must honor his oath.
Despite offers to break his oath, voluntarily returned to Carthage and certain death.
Made the voyage back to Carthage, knowing he would face torture and execution.
Executed by the Carthaginians, according to legend through extreme torture, becoming Rome's greatest example of honor.
His story became the defining example of Roman fides, retold for centuries as the pinnacle of honor.