The First Punic War ignited the flames of rivalry between Rome and Carthage, but it was the Second Punic War that solidified the deep animosity between the two powers. Rome emerged victorious once again, reinforcing its dominance. However, the conflict was far from over. Although Carthage had been significantly weakened and burdened by harsh peace terms, it still remained a functioning state—and this continued existence unsettled many Romans.
Harsh Terms Imposed on Carthage
Following its defeat, Carthage faced severe consequences: enormous tribute payments, territorial losses, and the complete forfeiture of military autonomy. One of the most critical stipulations dictated that Carthage could not wage war—offensive or defensive—without Rome’s express permission. This condition set the stage for escalating tensions.
Masinissa and Rome’s Manipulation
Masinissa, the ambitious king of Numidia and a Roman ally, took advantage of Carthage’s weakened position. Over the course of several decades, he encroached upon Carthaginian territory, knowing that Rome would back him. Each time Carthage sought permission to defend itself, Rome denied the request and supported Numidia instead. Carthage, though frustrated, abided by the treaty—until 151 BC.
Carthage Fights Back
In 151 BC, with their patience exhausted and their lands under renewed assault, Carthage finally acted. General Hasdrubal the Boetharch led a counterattack against Numidia. The effort failed, and Hasdrubal was sentenced to death for violating the treaty with Rome. Yet the damage was done. Many Roman senators now viewed Carthage not as a dying power—but as a potential threat.
Political Debates in Rome
Debate broke out in the Roman Senate. Some, like Scipio Nasica, believed Carthage should be preserved as a useful threat to unify Rome internally. But Marcus Porcius Cato—better known as Cato the Elder—argued passionately and relentlessly that “Carthage must be destroyed.” His faction ultimately prevailed.
Rome Declares War Again
By 149 BC, Rome had made up its mind. A vast army, commanded by consuls Manius Manilius and Lucius Calpurnius Piso, landed at Utica near Carthage. Still desperate to avoid war, Carthage sent envoys to negotiate peace. Rome responded by demanding total disarmament—and, shockingly, that Carthage abandon its city, which would then be demolished. This ultimatum made it clear: Rome wanted Carthage gone.
Carthage Prepares for the Final Stand
With diplomacy exhausted, Carthage prepared for war. The city recalled General Hasdrubal from death row to lead its defense. When Roman forces reached Carthage, they were unable to breach its formidable walls, leading to a prolonged siege.
A Slow and Painful War
Carthaginian forces attempted to cut Roman supply lines, while Rome struggled to break the city’s defenses. In 147 BC, a turning point arrived when Scipio Aemilianus, the grandson of Scipio Africanus, was elected consul and given full command of the campaign.
Scipio Aemilianus Takes Control
Scipio quickly reformed the demoralized Roman army, dismissing undisciplined troops and demanding strict discipline. In a daring night operation, he and a few thousand men breached Carthage’s walls. Although initially successful, the limited force was forced to retreat before dawn.
A City in Chaos
Inside Carthage, Hasdrubal overthrew the city’s leadership and assumed full control. Meanwhile, Scipio intensified his efforts, attempting to cut off supplies by sea. The conflict escalated, with Hasdrubal resorting to gruesome acts, including torturing Roman prisoners, in an effort to intimidate his enemies.
The Final Assault and Destruction
In 146 BC, Scipio launched a decisive siege. His troops finally stormed the city, unleashing a week of brutal violence. Carthage was burned to the ground, and its population slaughtered or enslaved. Out of hundreds of thousands, only 50,000 Carthaginians were spared—only to be sold into slavery.
Hasdrubal surrendered to save his life, despite his wife’s tragic choice to die rather than accept defeat. Rome allowed Hasdrubal to live, but offered him nothing more.
The End of Carthage
With its capital destroyed and its people enslaved, the Carthaginian Empire ceased to exist. Its remaining territories were annexed by Rome. After three devastating wars, Rome had finally ensured that Carthage would never rise again.
Beyond the Punic Wars
Though the Punic Wars played a defining role in shaping Rome’s early history, they were only one chapter in a much larger story. The Roman Republic, emboldened by victory, was poised to expand further, and new challenges and conflicts loomed on the horizon.
