The highly anticipated gladiator drama Those About to Die is poised to captivate audiences with its visceral depiction of ancient Rome’s brutal spectacles. However, beyond the blood and sand of the Colosseum, the series offers a unique opportunity to explore the often-overlooked Amazigh communities that played a role in the Roman Empire.
While much of popular media’s focus on Rome has centered on its emperors, senators, and military conquests, Those About to Die promises to delve deeper into the diverse ethnic and cultural groups that comprised the empire—including the Amazigh, also known as the Berber people. Historically originating from North Africa, Berbers had significant interactions with Rome, ranging from warriors and traders to even rulers who influenced the empire’s course.
Amazigh Presence in Ancient Rome
The Amazigh, indigenous to North Africa, had a longstanding relationship with Rome. Numidia (modern-day Algeria and Tunisia) and Mauretania (modern-day Morocco and parts of Algeria) were home to Berber tribes that both resisted and collaborated with Roman expansion. Leaders like King Juba II of Mauretania were highly Romanized and played a role in spreading Roman culture in North Africa, while others, such as Tacfarinas, led resistance movements against Roman rule.
Moreover, the Roman arenas saw gladiators from all walks of life, including Amazigh who had either been captured in military campaigns or voluntarily enlisted in pursuit of fame and fortune. These fighters were often skilled horsemen and warriors, trained in the unforgiving desert landscapes of North Africa. Their presence in the gladiatorial games reflects the complex relationship between Rome and its African provinces.
The Role of Amazigh in Those About to Die
Early indications suggest that Those About to Die will portray the diverse ethnic backgrounds of its characters, potentially including Berbers among the gladiatorial ranks. If done correctly, this could bring much-needed representation to a group whose historical contributions have often been overshadowed in mainstream media. The Berbers were not only fighters but also intellectuals, traders, and even Roman citizens who integrated into various levels of society.
The portrayal of Amazigh in Roman history can also challenge existing stereotypes about ancient civilizations and their interactions. While Rome is often depicted as a monolithic imperial force, its success relied on the contributions of numerous cultures, including the Berbers, who played key roles in shaping its military, economy, and social fabric.
Actor Moe Hashim, who plays the character Kwame, highlights the challenges of researching North African influence in Roman history:
“Despite the impact, Numidia’s legacy is not explored enough by historians. As a result, my portrayal of Kwame was guided by intuition. You think you can just easily research Roman history, but you really have to dig in deep and find the right articles and audio to really understand the influence of the North Africans.”
A Step Toward Greater Historical Representation
If Those About to Die successfully includes the Amazigh presence in its narrative, it would mark a significant step toward more inclusive storytelling in historical dramas. The Amazigh (Berber) heritage is rich with tales of resilience, leadership, and cultural exchange—elements that could add depth to the show’s depiction of the Roman world.
By bringing attention to these often-overlooked communities, Those About to Die has the potential to educate viewers about the true diversity of the Roman Empire while celebrating the enduring legacy of the Amazigh people. As audiences await the show’s release, the hope remains that it will do justice to the history and contributions of one of North Africa’s oldest and most resilient cultures.
