Hannibal Essay

Hannibal at the Gates

The Mediterranean was home to many of the most powerful empires in history, whose influence on Western culture has lasted centuries. Perhaps pre-imminent amongst these umbrella societies, which included the Greeks, Romans, and Phoenicians, amongst others, were the Romans. Beginning as a fast-growing and highly successful Republic, Rome eventually became one of the largest and most powerful Empires in the world. However, Rome’s success was not without its challenges. As its territories spread, Rome inevitably encroached on other powerful territories operating in the Mediterranean – the most significant of which would prove to be Carthage. In fact, the series of wars between Rome and Carthage, known as the Punic Wars, would eventually threaten the capital of Rome itself. The most important, and well-known, figure in the colorful history of the Punic Wars was Hannibal Barca, who came closer than any other single individual to bringing about the downfall of Rome. The true legacy of Hannibal’s greatness was his leadership ability, military genius, and his lasting influence on Rome and the dynamic of the Mediterranean region.

Carthage before Hannibal

Born in 247 B.C.E. to Hamilcar Barca, Hannibal would eventually inherit both a long history of warfare and a fierce personal vendetta against Rome. Leading up to and immediately following Hannibal’s birth, Carthage was mired in conflict. Beginning around 409 B.C.E. Carthage and the Greeks engaged in almost constant warfare over control of Sicily. Just as Carthage was beginning to gain the upper hand, a rapidly growing Rome entered the fray to secure its own interests in the region, thereby beginning the first Punic War in 264. The first war ended in 241 as a stunning defeat for the powerful descendants of Phoenicia, and Carthage’s general Hamilcar bitterly resented the harsh provisions that Rome demanded of the city, which included heavy indemnities and complete evacuation of Sicily. Such was...