>First Punic War (264 - 241 BCE)
*Lasted for 23 years and was primarily a naval conflict.
*The war was fought over control of Sicily and the trade routes in the western Mediterranean.
*It resulted in a Roman victory and the cession of Sicily to Rome, marking Rome's first major territorial acquisition outside the Italian peninsula.
Second Punic War (218 - 201 BCE)
*Considered one of the most significant wars in ancient history.
*Fought primarily on land, with Hannibal's invasion of Italy marking a major turning point.
*Hannibal's victory at Cannae in 216 BCE is often regarded as one of the greatest tactical victories in military history.
*Ended with Rome's victory and Carthage's defeat.
*Carthage lost much of its territory, paid heavy war reparations, and was prohibited from having a standing navy.
Historic Importance:
*The Punic Wars marked a crucial period in the expansion and rise of Rome as a major power in the ancient world.
*The conflicts transformed the Roman military, leading to advancements in tactics and strategies, which played a critical role in Rome's subsequent conquests.
*The wars had significant economic, political, and cultural impacts on both Rome and Carthage.
*The outcome shaped the balance of power in the Mediterranean and influenced the course of ancient history.