World History Timeline: The Punic Wars by Thaily Vega

264 BC: The First Punic War Begins

0653353 — 2024-03-01 17:26:37 UTC

The First Punic War kicks off a series of wars when Rome and Carthage clash over control of Sicily. This long conflict, which was fought mainly at sea, marked the start of Rome's expansion beyond the Italian peninsula. (264 B.C)

261 BC: Battle of Agrigentum

0653353 — 2024-03-01 17:26:37 UTC

The first major battle of the First Punic War sees Roman forces lay siege to the Carthaginian-held city of Agrigentum in Sicily. The Romans eventually emerge victorious, gaining a vital foothold on the island. (261 B.C)

241 BC: The First Punic War Ends

0653353 — 2024-03-01 17:26:38 UTC

After 23 years of intense fighting, the First Punic War concludes with Rome's victory over Carthage. The Treaty of Lutatius is signed, handing Sicily over to Rome and marking its first province outside the Italian mainland. (241 B.C)

218 BC: The Second Punic War Begins

0653353 — 2024-03-01 17:26:39 UTC

The Second Punic War commences as Carthage seeks to expand its empire into Spain, leading to renewed conflict with Rome. The war is famously marked by Hannibal's audacious crossing of the Alps into Italy. (218 B.C)

216 BC: Battle of Cannae

0653353 — 2024-03-01 17:26:39 UTC

Hannibal achieves one of the most decisive victories in military history at the Battle of Cannae, where he encircles and annihilates a massive Roman army. This battle becomes a classic study in military strategy. (216 B.C)

202 BC: Battle of Zama

0653353 — 2024-03-01 17:26:40 UTC

The Second Punic War ends with the Battle of Zama, where Scipio Africanus leads Roman forces to a decisive victory over Hannibal's troops. This defeat marks the end of Carthaginian power in the western Mediterranean. (202 B.C)

149 BC: The Third Punic War Begins

0653353 — 2024-03-01 17:26:40 UTC

Rising tensions lead to the Third Punic War, as Rome seeks to eliminate Carthage as a potential threat. The war escalates quickly, with Rome laying siege to Carthage. (149 B.C)

146 BC: Destruction of Carthage

0653353 — 2024-03-01 17:26:41 UTC

The Third Punic War ends with the complete destruction of Carthage by Roman forces. The city is razed, and its lands are salted to prevent future habitation. This marks the end of the Carthaginian state and its influence in the region. (146 B.C)