A Dictionary of Greek and Roman biography and mythology

1. A Carthaginian leader who, according to Justin, was one of the first that extended the power and dominion of his country, first, by successful wars against the African tribes, and afterwards by the subjugation of great part of Sicily. But, having subsequently crossed into Sardinia, he was defeated in a great battle; on account of which disaster he was disgraced and banished by his countrymen. In revenge for this he led his army to Carthage and laid siege to the city. His son Carthalo was in vain sent to intercede with him; he was crucified by order of Malchus himself within sight of the walls. Yet, having at length made himself master of the city, he was content with putting to death ten of the principal senators, and left the rest in possession of the chief power, of which they soon after availed themselves to bring him to trial and condemn him to death. (Justin, 18.7.) Orosius, who has merely abridged the narrative of Justin, adds that these events took place during the reign of Cyrus the Great (Oros. 4.6), but this is probably a mere inference from the statement of Justin, that Malchus was followed in the command by Mago. [MAGO, No. 1.] The chronology of these events is in fact extremely uncertain.