Carthage

Carthage was an ancient civilization centered around what is now Tunisia, in North Africa. It also had territories in southeastern Spain.

Carthage fought three wars against Rome, called the Punic Wars. It had some talented generals including Hannibal Barca.

Punic wars

First was something of a draw. Second and third were Roman victories.

First

Rome and Carthage sparred over colonies.

Second

Hannibal invaded Rome by crossing the Alps with elephants. Battle of Lake Trasimene Battle of Cannae.

The second Punic War ended with the Battle of Zama. Carthage lost colonies and had to promise not to start wars without Roman consent.

Third

Carthage recovered and was doing quite well economically.

Rome incited the Numidians to attack Carthage. When Carthage defended itself, Rome said it broke the treaty.

Rome sent an invasion force. Carthage negotiated and disarmed, but Rome besieged the city anyway. Carthage put up a spirited defense but ultimately lost.

The city of Carthage was razed and the civilization was absorbed into the Roman Republic.