Why Did Hannibal's Failure In Conquering Rome

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Hannibal the Hero December 17, 2011 For Queen Victoria Matthews Esteemed Work of Knave Shervin Ghiami Hannibal Barca of Carthage (247-183 BCE) is considered today by historians as one of the brilliant military tacticians of the Classical Era. His main enemy was the Mighty Roman Republic during the Second Punic War. Hannibal’s great victories against the Romans in this war include the battles of Trebbia, Lake Trasimene and Cannae. In the eyes of the Romans, Hannibal was this terrifying, merciless brute; however, he ultimately failed in conquering Rome. Firstly, the government of Carthage, in spite of being a remarkably stable system, was a poor supporter for Hannibal during his campaign. Secondly, despite being an excellent warlord, Hannibal was not given proper supplies and training to combat the Roman Empire. Lastly, Hannibal failed in conquering Rome due to the strength and the flexible…show more content…
His victories throughout the Italian Peninsula, such as Trebbia, Trasimene, and Cannae demonstrate his skill and wit. However, he failed to fulfill his oath of destroying Rome largely due to reasons beyond his control. Firstly, the Carthaginian government’s failure to support Hannibal crushed him when he needed help most. Secondly, his father’s poor legacy to Hannibal contributed in his loss. Lastly, the Roman Republic was simply greater than Carthage, and was largely the reason Hannibal lost the Second Punic War. This war demonstrates a story that the populace loves to hear. Carthage was clearly dominant throughout the war, until the final years where Rome emerged victorious. It was such a simple transformation; however, modern historians can still debate for hours about it. Was it Carthage that made a mistake, or did Rome renew itself and fight back against the mighty Carthaginians? Nevertheless, it is still important to acknowledge the factors of the Carthaginian defeat, for events like this are still prominent throughout

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