Part 3: Scipio Takes the War to Africa and Confronts Hannibal

Part 3: Scipio Takes the War to Africa and Confronts Hannibal

I have been find out about Scipio Africanus and today I want to look at his decision to carry the war to Carthage. By 205 BC, he had been elected consul, even though he was still only young. 

He requested to command in Africa, and he was eventually able to cross into Africa in 204 BC.  His first attack was near Utica, where he used clever deception techniques, he pretended to negotiate while he secretly planned a night assault. The attack destroyed enemy camps. This completely shocked the Carthaginian forces. Not long after, Roman forces defeated their opponents again, and Scipio captured the Numidian king Syphax, restoring the throne to Massinissa. This alliance proved to be important, especially because Numidian cavalry would later tip the balance in his favour.

Carthage reacted by recalling Hannibal from Italy. The stage was set for a final confrontation. Peace talks did followed, but the tension and mistrust could not be restored. Meanwhile, political rivals in Rome attempted to replace Scipio and claim the final victory. He refused to surrender command, he was determined to finish what he had started.

In 202 BC, Hannibal and Scipio finally met. It was at the Battle of Zama and with the support of Massinissa’s cavalry, Scipio defeated Hannibal. 

Peace was eventually achieved in 201 BC. Carthage was forced to completely disarm, to pay indemnities, and to seek Roman permission before any future wars. The long struggle had finally come to an end. When Scipio returned to Rome, he was celebrated and received the name “Africanus.” He gave out rewards to his soldiers and deposited vast wealth into the treasury. His fame grew rapidly, and stories even began portraying him as favoured by the gods.

But as always admiration also brought with it jealousy. Some aristocrats were still quite worried about his power and influence, and they continued to oppose him despite his huge success. It feels like his victory changed not only the war, but his place in Roman politics- raising his rank but also isolating him.

Do you think Scipio’s greatest strength was his boldness, or was it his ability to inspire loyalty when others doubted him?

Image info:

Artist: Giovanni Battista Tiepolo

Title: Scipio Africanus Freeing Massiva

Date: 1719 – 1721

Collection: Walters Art Museum