The Strategic Decision: Why Hannibal Didn't Attack Rome After Lake Trasimene

The video explores Hannibal's campaign in Italy, highlighting his initial successes and the challenges faced, such as crossing the Alps and swamps. Despite setbacks, Hannibal achieved significant victories, including the Battle of Lake Trasimene. The video examines why Hannibal, despite being close to Rome, chose not to attack the city. It discusses strategic and tactical considerations, including the potential for a land-sea operation and the influence of Hellenistic thinking on Hannibal's decisions. The video concludes with the missed opportunity to attack Rome and the beginning of a strategic game with Fabius Maximus.

What significant challenge did Hannibal face while crossing the swamps?

• Loss of cavalry horses

• Desertion of troops

• Roman ambush

• Supply shortage

What was a key factor in Hannibal's initial success in Italy?

• Advanced siege technology

• Superior naval power

• Roman political instability

• Support from local tribes

How did Hannibal strengthen his forces after the victory at Lake Trasimene?

• Recruiting local tribes

• Capturing Roman supplies and horses

• Building new fortifications

• Receiving reinforcements from Carthage

What did Hannibal capture from Flaminius's army that was crucial for his campaign?

• Gold and silver

• Cavalry horses and pack animals

• Maps and intelligence

• Roman prisoners

What was one of Rome's strategic objectives during the Second Punic War?

• Conquering Egypt

• Retaining territories won in the First Punic War

• Expanding into Asia Minor

• Forming alliances with Greek states

How did Rome respond to Hannibal's presence in Italy?

• By sending all legions to Iberia

• By negotiating peace

• By stationing legions in strategic locations

• By forming alliances with Carthage

Why did Carthage send 70 ships near Rome during Hannibal's campaign?

• To explore new territories

• To support a potential attack on Rome

• To conduct trade

• To transport reinforcements

What strategic advantage did Carthage have over Rome at the time?

• Better fortifications

• Superior cavalry

• Naval superiority near Rome

• More experienced generals

What was one reason historians suggest for Hannibal not attacking Rome?

• Fear of Roman reinforcements

• Influence of Hellenistic war philosophy

• Insufficient naval support

• Lack of siege equipment

What was a Roman belief about war that Hannibal might have underestimated?

• Allies are more important than enemies

• Total destruction of the enemy is necessary

• War should be avoided at all costs

• Victory is achieved through diplomacy