Ktesiphon Rebellion (294 BC)

The Ktesiphon Rebellion erupted early in 294 BC. A large group of slaves of the surrounding countryside revolted and overthrew their masters. Taking to the field in a large army, the demanded their freedom and that their former masters would be punished.

The Battle of Seleukeia Megala
With the war against the Antigonids having only just ended the majority of the army was still in Syria. In Mesopotamia Only the forces under Patrokles had returned to Mespotamia. He managed to rally the Macedonians in the area for the defense of Seleukeia Megala and, even though defeated in the field, managed to prevent the rebels from taking the city. Instead the rebels focussed on raiding the country side around Seleukeia, inflicting severe casualties on the populace. So much so that the people of Seleukeia themselves started raising money for their own defense.

The Battle of Ktesiphon
Patrokles' quick action had prevented the rebels from taking the capital and given Seleukos I Nikator enough time to come with the army to defeat the rebels in a decisive battle. With minimal losses Seleukos managed to force the rebels to surrender and subsequently cruxified all 10,000 surviving rebels.

Influence of the Frataraka family
The rebellion suspiciously erupted a few months after Wahbarz Frataraka had been relieved as governor of Persia and put under house arrest at Seleukeia Megala. While his involvement could not be proven, he was put under closer watch following this incident.