Abgarid dynasty

The Abgarid dynasty was a dynasty of Nabataean Arab origin.^[1][2] Members of the dynasty, the Abgarids, reigned between 134 BC and 242 AD over Edessa and Osroene in Upper Mesopotamia.^[1] Some members of the dynasty bore Iranian names, while others had Arabic names, including Abgar itself.^[3] J.B. Segal notes that the names ending in "-u" are "undoubtedly Nabatean".^[3] The Abgarid dynasts spoke "a form of Aramaic".^[3]

Following the Battle of Carrhae (53 BC), members of the dynasty pursued a broadly pro-Parthian policy for about two centuries.^[3] At the turn of the 2nd century AD, the Romans turned Osroene into a Roman client state.^[3] During Caracalla's reign (r. 198–217), most likely in 214, Abgar IX Severus was deposed and Osroene was incorporated as a Roman province (colonia).^[3] Thereafter, Abgarid dynasts only ruled in name.^[3] Abgar X Frahad, the last nominal Abgarid ruler, settled in Rome together with his wife.^[3]