Carthage, often remembered as Rome’s greatest rival, was far more than a mere adversary in the Punic Wars. Its history spans eight centuries, from its Phoenician origins to its tragic fall.
Before Carthage’s foundation, the Phoenician city-states of the Levant, particularly Tyre, dominated Mediterranean trade.
These expert seafarers established over 300 colonies across North Africa, Spain, and the islands of the western Mediterranean.
Around 814 BCE, the legendary Queen Dido fled Tyre and founded Carthage, though archaeology suggests the city emerged in the late 9th century BCE.
Initially a modest trading post, Carthage’s strategic location on the Tunisian Strait made it a vital commercial hub. As trade flourished, the city transitioned into an aristocratic republic, later evolving into a monarchy under Mago I in the mid-6th century BCE.
Carthage expanded its influence, absorbing Phoenician colonies and forming alliances against Greek settlers in the western Mediterranean. It's military, bolstered by naval superiority, secured victories such as the Battle of Alalia in 539 BCE, cementing dominance over Sardinia and Corsica.
By the early 5th century BCE, Carthage had become the dominant power in the western Mediterranean, engaging in prolonged conflicts with Greek city-states, particularly in Sicily. Its first major attempt to conquer the island in 480 BCE ended in disaster at Himera, prompting the abolition of its monarchy and the establishment of a republic.
Despite setbacks, Carthage rebuilt its influence, expanding into North Africa, Spain, and the Mediterranean islands.The Carthaginians were skilled explorers and shipbuilders. Maritime expeditions, such as those led by Hanno the Navigator, extended their reach as far as West Africa, while shipbuilding innovations enabled mass production of warships at unprecedented speeds.
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🎤 Voiceover by: Nick Banas
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