Empire of the Black Sea

"Empire of the Black Sea" offers a comprehensive history of the Kingdom of Pontos, a significant Hellenistic state along the Black Sea’s coast that challenged Roman expansion in the eastern Mediterranean. The book explores the dynasty's mythic origins, cultural achievements blending Greek and Persian influences, and its rulers' complex relationships with regional powers, especially during the tumultuous reign of Mithridates VI. It provides a nuanced account of this influential yet often overlooked ancient kingdom within a broad historical context.