born 0441; 240
died 148 BC
Ruler of the North African kingdom of Numidia .
Originally an ally of Carthage , he switched sides to help Rome after being persuaded by Scipio Africanus the Elder (206). After winning the Battle of Zama (202), he was awarded a larger kingdom. Though displeased with the presence of Cato 's army in Africa (149), he remained faithful to Rome and a client of the Scipios until his death.