The Political Turmoil and Military Strategies of the Second Punic War

The transcript details Hannibal's campaign in Italy during the Second Punic War, highlighting his strategic maneuvers and Rome's efforts to counter them. It also delves into the political dynamics within Carthage, particularly the opposition from Hanno against Hannibal's strategies. The Carthaginian Senate debates the allocation of resources, while a rebellion in Sardinia poses additional challenges. The narrative underscores the complexities of war, politics, and alliances during this period.

What was the main strategy of Fabius Maximus during the initial phase of the Second Punic War?

• Direct confrontation with Hannibal

• Avoiding conflict to preserve Roman troops

• Seeking alliances with Carthage

• Invading Carthage directly

How did Hannibal exploit the internal divisions in Brutium?

• By forming alliances with Roman factions

• By offering peace treaties to Roman cities

• By circulating news of a siege to gain support

• By attacking Roman settlements directly

What did Margot present to the Carthaginian Senate to demonstrate Hannibal's success?

• A treaty signed with Roman allies

• A map of conquered territories

• A list of Roman prisoners

• Golden rings of fallen Roman aristocrats

What did Margot claim would happen with additional troops from Carthage?

• Carthage would gain control of the Mediterranean

• Hannibal would retreat to Africa

• Rome would be broken

• A peace treaty would be signed

What was Hanno the Second's main argument against supporting Hannibal's campaign?

• Hannibal's victories were exaggerated

• Carthage should focus on expanding in Africa

• Hannibal had enough resources already

• Rome was too powerful to defeat

What was the main reason for the delay in Hannibal's reinforcements?

• Hanno's political influence

• Hannibal's strategic decisions

• Roman naval blockades

• Lack of funds in Carthage

What was the result of Hanno's opposition to Hannibal's campaign?

• Strengthened Carthaginian resolve

• Increased support for Hannibal in Carthage

• Delayed reinforcements for Hannibal

• Immediate peace with Rome

What was the strategic importance of Sardinia for Rome?

• It was the main base for Roman naval operations

• It controlled access to Roman waters

• It provided a direct route to Carthage

• It was a major source of Roman troops

What was the outcome of the Roman victory at Cornus?

• Temporary relief for the Roman forces

• Capture of the entire island of Sardinia

• Complete destruction of the Sardo-Punic army

• Immediate peace negotiations with Carthage

What was the main challenge faced by the Roman legion in Sardinia?

• Internal divisions within the legion

• Lack of experienced commanders

• Outnumbered by Sardo-Punic forces

• Insufficient naval support