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Hannibal

 

            Hannibal, the son of Hamilcar Barca, started following his father on his campaigns when he was 9 years old. From the time Hannibal was 18 until he turned 25 he was a military leader for his brother-in-law Hasdrubal. After Hasdrubal's death in 221 Hannibal was elected the new commander in chief of the Carthaginian army. Now a Carthaginian general, he was probably one of the greatest generals that had ever lived. The army now under Hannibal's guidance made large territorial advances until he clashed with the Roman army in 218. Although Hannibal lost many men in his army due to landslides, attacks and illness he was always able to recruit more forces along his way. During his whole campaign as Commander in chief it is believed he lost as many as 15,000 men. .
             Hannibal fought in the Second Punic War during 281-201 B.C. Hannibal's march into Italy is legendary. The Roman Senate felt secure from land invasion and did not take the precautions against war that they should have. Their confidence is understandable, Hannibal was in Spain. He would have to fight his way through a Roman army, cross the Pyrenees, then fight his way across southern France, and finally cross the Alps. This seemed like an impossible task, so the Romans let their guard down.
             Hannibal had escaped from Spain; Rome was concerned but not panicked. The Roman government sent an army out to protect the bridges on Rhone River. Here they were sure they could prevent Hannibal from crossing. Then be able to choose the time and place to defeat Hannibal.
             Hannibal quietly moved northward, he and his army crossed the river on pontoons and by swimming. The crossing of the river was very dangerous. The river was flooded due to the spring rains and proved to be quite a feat to cross. The other concern of Hannibal's was, if he got caught, by the Roman sentries he and his army would be destroyed.
             Once across the river, Hannibal and his army moved south and took the Roman army completely by surprise.


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