The Strategic Showdown: Hannibal vs. Fabius Maximus in the Second Punic War

Hannibal, after plundering the Agavalanus Valley, faces a strategic Roman army led by Fabius Maximus. Despite health issues in his army, Hannibal continues his campaign, while Rome focuses on Iberia to cut off his reinforcements. Fabius employs a cautious strategy, avoiding direct battles, which frustrates both Hannibal and the Roman Senate. Hannibal attempts to provoke Fabius by attacking Campania but ultimately executes a clever escape from Roman entrapment, showcasing his tactical brilliance.

What was Hannibal's strategic situation after plundering the Agavalanus Valley?

• He was negotiating peace with Rome.

• He was preparing to march on Rome.

• He was surrounded by a larger Roman army.

• He had secured a safe retreat path.

What health issues did Hannibal's army face after crossing the Alps?

• Typhoid and cholera

• Scurvy and mange

• Malaria and dysentery

• Influenza and pneumonia

Why did the Roman Senate decide to send resources to Iberia?

• To prevent reinforcements from reaching Hannibal

• To negotiate a peace treaty with Iberian tribes

• To establish a new Roman colony

• To directly attack Carthage

What was Quintus Fabius Maximus's initial strategy against Hannibal?

• To engage in direct battle immediately

• To cautiously shadow Hannibal and avoid direct confrontation

• To form alliances with other tribes

• To retreat and regroup in Rome

How did the Roman Senate limit Fabius's command?

• By cutting off his supply lines

• By appointing Marcus Minutius Rufus as his second in command

• By restricting his movements

• By denying him additional troops

What was Hannibal's plan upon entering the Agar Fallinus?

• To retreat back to Carthage

• To negotiate with Roman citizens

• To provoke Fabius into battle

• To establish a permanent base

What was the political impact of Fabius's strategy in Rome?

• It led to his immediate removal from command

• It was widely celebrated and supported

• It resulted in increased funding for his army

• It was unpopular and led to political challenges

How did Hannibal manage to escape from the valley?

• By negotiating a truce with Fabius

• By using a ruse involving oxen with torches

• By launching a surprise night attack

• By retreating through an unguarded pass

What was the outcome of Hannibal's escape for Fabius?

• He was forced to resign from his position

• He was praised for his strategic foresight

• He was promoted to a higher command

• He was humiliated for allowing the escape

What did Hannibal's escape demonstrate about his generalship?

• His reliance on brute force

• His preference for defensive tactics

• His inability to adapt to new strategies

• His cunning and strategic brilliance