Hannibal Barca Research Paper

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As a military general, Hannibal Barca’s tactics for combating his enemies, the Romans during the second Punic War were some of the most significant events in military history (Gabriel). Hannibal’s hatred for the Romans, coupled with Scipio’s unwavering loyalty to Rome were the main reasons for the antagonism between the two rivals. This paper will outline Hannibal Barca’s tactical abilities and leadership and how the Carthaginians ultimately ended up succumbing to the Romans. Hannibal was the commander of the Carthaginians while Scipio headed the Roman military. Hannibal was an exemplary military commander and is regarded as one of the most intelligent in the history of the Carthaginian military. “Barca” was a nickname earned by Hamilcar Barca, Hannibal’s father, which was passed down to Hannibal and meant “lightning” (Gabriel). Scipio was also an outstanding military commander with impressive skills gained from a long term he served in the military. He had won many battles that were very critical to the Romans. During his tenure, his advancement in, and leadership of the Roman military forced the Carthaginian military, as well as Hannibal, to surrender (Render).
Ongoing battles created a hatred between the Romans and Carthaginians, with fathers teaching their sons nothing but hatred for the opposition, leaving an undying need to kill one another. Hamilcar made his son (Hannibal) swear that he would always be an enemy to Rome, and one report states that Hannibal said “I swear so soon as age will permit I will use fire and steel to arrest the destiny of Rome” (Mills). The Carthaginian army led by Hannibal, usually attacked their enemies in an infantry phalanx that was supported by chariots as the primary combat squad, armed with d...

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...away the rights of the Carthaginians and bankrupted Carthage (Gabriel).
Although the Carthaginians ultimately had succumb to the Romans, their general, Hannibal Barca was one of the fiercest and intelligent leaders the world has ever seen. Throughout the invasions from Hannibal’s army on the Romans we learn of the meticulous military qualities that Hannibal presented. He was a tactical and highly skilled military commander with a vast knowledge of war. Hannibal portrayed high integrity in solving conflicts that arose amongst his troops and kept them united through the journey across the Alps (Gabriel). He passionately gave his army hopes and determination while achieving their mission despite the challenges they faced before reaching their target. These qualities made him one of the greater generals of the Punic wars, despite Scipio emerging a victor (Render).

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