Punic Wars - 3 Minute History

In the third century BC, Carthage was a dominant sea power, while Rome expanded on land. Conflicts began in Sicily, leading to the First Punic War. Rome built a navy, eventually defeating Carthage and taking Sicily. Hannibal led Carthage in the Second Punic War, famously crossing the Alps but failing to capture Rome. Rome's strategic victories in Spain and Africa, led by Scipio Africanus, culminated in the Battle of Zama, ending Carthage's power. The Third Punic War saw Rome destroy Carthage, solidifying its dominance in the Mediterranean.

What event triggered the First Punic War between Rome and Carthage?

• The Roman siege of Syracuse

• Hannibal's attack on Sagunto

• The Mamertines' alliance with Rome

• The Roman invasion of Spain

Which strategy did the Romans use to counter Hannibal's advances in Italy during the Second Punic War?

• Direct confrontation

• Diplomatic negotiations

• War of attrition

• Naval blockade

Who was the Roman general responsible for turning the tide in Spain during the Second Punic War?

• Hasdrubal

• Hamilcar Barca

• Scipio Africanus

• Fabius Maximus

What was the outcome of the Battle of Zama?

• Stalemate

• Roman victory

• Carthaginian victory

• Peace treaty

What was the fate of Carthage at the end of the Third Punic War?

• It expanded its territory

• It was destroyed and its people enslaved

• It became a Roman ally

• It regained its independence