Oezalces

This reign was defined by internal turbulence and instability, which eventually precipitated a civil war. he was the brother-in-law of the Carthaginian general Hannibal.

Biography Oezalces is considered one of the Numidian kings whose reigns were remarkably brief, lasting only a few months. His tenure was characterized by instability, primarily due to his advanced age; Livy described him as being 'Very aged man' (admodum senex). He ascended to the throne in 206 BCE, the same year Gaia passed away. Livy further confirms that according to Numidian custom, succession followed a collateral system passing from brother to brother before reverting to the eldest son of the deceased monarch. Consequently, upon Gaia's death, the crown passed to Oezalces, to whom Masinissa was initially loyal. Family and Lineage Oezalces descended from the Massylian Numidian royal lineage; he was the son of King Zilalsan II and the younger brother of Gaia, alongside Naravas. He enjoyed the highest honors and esteem within his brother's court. Furthermore, Oezalces married a noblewoman, who was a young niece of the general Hannibal and the granddaughter of Hamilcar.