Punic Wars: Key Events and Figures

The Punic Wars were a series of three conflicts between Rome and Carthage from 264 to 146 BCE. These wars established Rome as a dominant world power and led to the destruction of Carthage. The First Punic War was fought over Sicily, with Rome eventually victorious despite naval challenges. The Second Punic War saw Hannibal's daring campaign against Rome, but ultimately Rome prevailed under Scipio's leadership. The Third Punic War resulted in the complete destruction of Carthage, solidifying Rome's supremacy in the Mediterranean region.

What was the original purpose of Carthage when it was founded by the Phoenicians?

• A religious center

• A cultural hub

• A military base

• A trading post

What was the main reason Rome declared war on Carthage in the First Punic War?

• Rome wanted to expand into Africa

• Carthage imprisoned Roman fortune-seekers

• Carthage attacked Rome directly

• Carthage refused to trade with Rome

How did the Romans adapt their naval strategy during the First Punic War?

• They developed a land battle technique at sea

• They used fire ships

• They hired mercenaries

• They built larger ships

Who was the Carthaginian general that led the campaign against Rome in the Second Punic War?

• Hannibal

• Cato

• Scipio

• Hamilcar Barca

What was a significant outcome of the Battle of Cannae?

• Carthage surrendered Sicily

• Rome changed its military strategy

• Hannibal was defeated

• Rome captured Carthage

What was Scipio's strategy to turn the tide in favor of Rome during the Second Punic War?

• He attacked Carthage directly

• He formed an alliance with Hannibal

• He fortified Rome's defenses

• He negotiated peace with Carthage

What was the main reason for the Third Punic War?

• Carthage refused to pay tribute to Rome

• Roman antipathy towards Carthage lingered

• Rome wanted to expand its territory

• Carthage attacked Rome again

What was the fate of Carthage after the Third Punic War?

• It became a Roman ally

• It was rebuilt as a Roman city

• It was destroyed and its citizens enslaved

• It remained independent

What did the Romans do to the city of Carthage after its defeat?

• They rebuilt it as a cultural center

• They left it in ruins

• They annexed it as a Roman province

• They turned it into a military base

What was the long-term impact of the Punic Wars on Rome?

• Rome became a minor power

• Rome lost its territories in Africa

• Rome's economy collapsed

• Rome emerged as a dominant world power