Pontius is the nomen of the Roman gens Pontia, a family of Samnite origin, and was borne by all male members of that gens, particularly:Gaius Pontius, a Samnite general during the Second Samnite War. Lucius Pontius Aquila, tribune of the plebs about 45 BC, and one of Caesar's assassins. Pontius Pilatus, or Pilate, governor of Judaea who presided over the crucifixion of Jesus. Marcus Pontius Laelianus, a Roman politician and general, who held the consulship in AD 153. Pontius of Carthage, a deacon of the early church, and author of the Life of Cyprian.
