Vologases III of Parthia

Coin of Vologases III. Reverse shows a seated archer carrying a bow, surrounded by meaningless Greek-like letterforms.

Vologases III of Parthia claimed the throne of the Parthian Empire about 105, in the last days of Pacorus II of Parthia (80–105). He reigned over the eastern portion of the kingdom from 105 to 147. The period was one of civil war in the Parthian kingdom; for the early part of his reign Vologases III contended with Pacorus II's legitimate successors Osroes I (105–116 and 117–129), Parthamaspates (116–117), and Mithridates IV (129–140), who ruled Mesopotamia. Preoccupied by conflicts with the Romans, particularly the invasion by Roman Emperor Trajan (98–117), they were unable to effectively challenge Vologases III.

Following the death of Osroes I, Vologases III extended his rule through most of Parthia but had to contend with Mithridates IV, incursions of the nomadic Alans into Cappadocia, Armenia, and Media, and rebellion in Iran by an unknown usurper, c. 140.

After Vologases III's death, the Parthian realm was finally reunited by Vologases IV of Parthia (147–191), the son of his rival Mithridates IV.

Vologases III of Parthia Arsacid dynasty
Preceded by Pacorus II and Mithridates IV	Great King (Shah) of Parthia 105–147	Succeeded by Vologases IV

References

•  This article incorporates text from a publication now in the public domain: Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). Encyclopædia Britannica (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. 
• Dio Cassius, lxix, 15.