Rome and Warfare

Rome and Warfare

To begin, Rome was founded in 753 B.C.E. by twin brothers, Romulus and Remus (Duiker 2011, 106). At this time, Rome was under the control of seven kings, and for about one hundred years, Rome was strongly influenced by the Etruscans. They introduced the construction and building up of the area. By 509 B.C.E., the monarchy was destroyed, and a republican government type was created. Near this time, the expansion over seven hills and valleys creates the Servian wall, which enclosed the city. This was the start of the Roman Republic. The beginning of this republic consisted of constant warfare with the enemies surrounding the area. Throughout the next couple hundred years, Rome was able to defeat Etruscan states in the north, and by 264 B.C.E, Rome was in control of the majority of Italy. After the success in Italy, Rome was faced against Carthage: located on the north shore of Africa, founded in 800 B.C.E., by Phoenicians. By the third century, Carthage expanded, and took over much of the Mediterranean, including Sicily. With Carthaginians so close to Italy, the Romans became concerned, and a battle between the two powers began.

Additionally, this was the start to an extensive battle to conquer the Western Mediterranean. The first Punic War officially began. During the conquest to conquer Sicily, Rome created a naval force and took down Carthage’s navy; the war ended in 241 B.C.E. with Rome in control of Sicily: the first Roman Province. In 218 B.C.E., Hannibal, a well-known Carthaginian general, became furious when Romans encouraged Spanish enemies to strike against Carthage. Hannibal took his anger, and targeted Rome. This became known as the Second Punic War (218-201 B.C.E.). During this war, Hannibal was determined to defeat Rome on their land. He took an extensive journey through the Alps with 40,000 men and occupied a town called Cannae, where the citadel was located.

On the other hand, In preparation for war (Romans), “The Senate...