The Punic Wars

Expanding Rome’s Empire

Carthage1. City founded

by Phoenicians in North Africa

2. Controlled W. Mediterranean trade

QuickTime™ and a decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

Hannibal Great Carthaginian General who fought against Rome in the Second Punic War. He was considered Rome's greatest enemy.

Scipio Great Roman General who defeated Hannibal in the Second Punic War.

First Punic War (264 BC - 241 BC)

:CAUSE:Rome breaks alliance with Carthage and invades Sicily.

:EFFECT:Rome prevails and captures Sicily, Sardinia, and Corsica.

Second Punic War (218 BC-201 BC)

:CAUSE:Carthage conquers Spain, Hannibal invades Italy.

:EFFECT:Roman General Scipio defeats Hannibal but Carthage is allowed to keep it’s lands.

QuickTime™ and a decompressor

are needed to see this picture.

Hannibal's Elephants

Third Punic War (149 BC-146 BC)

:CAUSE:Carthage rebels against Roman rule.

:EFFECT:Rome completely destroys Carthage.

3 Reasons for Rome’s Success

1. Diplomacy1. Extended Roman citizenship to conquered

people2. Conquered allowed to run their own internal

affairs2. Military

1. Accomplished and persistent soldiers2. Strategists3. Built colonies and roads

3. Law1. Practical2. Created laws in response to problems