Born in 212 B.C., Perseus was the king of Macedonia 179 and 168 B.C. After his fathers death, Perseus attempted to play both sides at once, simultaneously renewing the treaties with Rome and attempting to gain influence with other Hellenistic states. His plans were foiled by the Romans, who crushed his army at Pydna in 168 B.C. Perseus died a captive in Italy sometime between 165 and 162 B.C.